As our regular routines are disrupted, many in Squamish are finding more time on their hands. While we all practice social distancing, here are some local activities to keep you connected to the community.
Virtual Garden Workshop
Finding some extra time on your hands and a budding green thumb? Squamish CAN is offering its latest workshop virtually, covering soil and nutrients for your garden. Constance Wylie, an ecological farmer, permaculturist, garden educator and the co-chair of the Squamish Food Policy Council will talk about healthy soil and how to build it naturally.
Find it on Zoom (https://zoom.us/j/871600331, meeting ID: 871 600 331) on Sunday, April 5 from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. More info at www.squamishcan.net.
Beyond the books
A library is more than its books, as the Squamish Public Library goes to show. Although the library had to close, the app Libby still offers access to a large collection of books and audiobooks to download from inside your home. (The app automatically returns your loans, so no need to worry about those overdue books!) For a more local perspective, the Squamish Public Library's digital archives are also available online. Peruse decades of Squamish history through its many photographs and old newspaper articles.
Mining historical archives
While work at the Britannia Mine has long stopped (and the museum about the mine is temporarily closed), you can still explore the national historic site through archives, classroom activities, and videos. Take a virtual walk-through of the tunnels, learn about women in Britannia, and flip through weird, wacky and wonderful black-and-white photos inside the mine and about town. Dig in at www.britanniaminemuseum.ca.
Take a deep dive
As we spend more time indoors, we can still explore the natural world. Peel back the many layers — more than 140 — of the Atl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound Marine Conservation Assessment interactive map. Under the surface, you'll find information, photos, and videos about marine life, industrial impact and history. You can even sound off by adding your observations and comments!
Mapping out language
Speaking of maps, head over to the Squamish Atlas (www.squamishatlas.com) to learn the Squamish names of local landmarks, mountains, waterways and more. Click on the markers to read a description, learn the pronunciation, story and the meaning behind names.
Alpine online
The Squamish chapter of the Alpine Club of Canada isn't letting social distancing stop its members from learning how to prepare for the mountains. Join the Spring e-Learning Series to take this time to prep for future trips. Learn new skills from building rope systems to navigation tools and glacier travel. Find more info at the ACC Squamish Facebook group.
Work it out
Find a workout class — many led by your favourite local instructors — that fits your schedule and your space. Many gyms and yoga studios have moved online, with some offering free training and others asking you to support local businesses.
Chief 24/7
Don't have an epic view of the Stawamus Chief? You can watch it as long as you like at www.chiefcam.com, where you'll also find daily time-lapses. Watch the mist and clouds roll over the monolith, as the sun rises and sets. As our circumstances change, some things stay the same. Anytime, anywhere, the Chief is always there.
