Wednesday Dec 21: Pender Harbour Christmas Bird Count
All day event hosted by the Pender Harbour and District Wildlife Society. Take time out from the Christmas rush. This is an annual one day census done by volunteer birders in which crews roam by land and boat throughout a 15-mile radius circle from Middle Point to Egmont to count birds on behalf of Bird Studies Canada. Dinner and countdown event in the evening. To register or for more information call John Field at 604-883-2807.

Sunday Jan 1: 12PM-4PM New Years Day Wetland Restoration Work Party
Help us prepare the wetland for restoration. Please bring boots and gloves and pack a lunch.

JANUARY 2006

Sunday Jan 8: 12PM-4PM Wetland Restoration Work Party
Help us prepare the wetland for restoration. Please bring boots and gloves and pack a lunch.

Sunday Jan 15: 12PM-4PM Wetland Restoration Work Party
Help us prepare the wetland for restoration. Please bring boots and gloves and pack a lunch.

Sunday Jan 22: 12PM-4PM Wetland Restoration Work Party
Help us prepare the wetland for restoration. Please bring boots and gloves and pack a lunch.

Sunday Jan 29: 12PM-4PM Wetland Restoration Work Party
Help us prepare the wetland for restoration. Please bring boots and gloves and pack a lunch.

FEBRUARY 2006

Sunday Feb 19, 10AM-1PM, Volunteer Open House and Outreach
The Lagoon Society had a very successful past year, thanks largely to the talent and enthusiasm of our volunteers. If you are interested in promoting wildlife education and conservation for all ages on the Sunshine Coast please join us for an Open House in Sechelt. We’ll present an overview of the Lagoon Society’s activities at the new Iris Griffith Centre, and explore the ways that you can make a difference. We need volunteers for a variety of projects and jobs including:

• Construction and Carpentry
  
• Landscaping and trail-building
  
• Child/Youth/Adult Education
  
• Guiding
  
• Workshop Facilitation
  
• Bookkeeping
  
• Reception
  
• Volunteer Coordination
  
• Communications and Newsletter
  

MARCH 2006

Friday March 31, 7:30PM Fundraiser CEILIDH Dance Night
Bring your kilts and dancing shoes for an evening of Scottish Dance, Music and Song with the Coast String Fiddlers. Friday March 31 at the Pender Harbour Community Hall, Madeira Park. This event will be fun for all ages, no dancing experience is necessary! From 10 pm Serena Eades and Steve K will be playing. There will be refreshments, finger food and a raffle.
Tickets: $15.00 single, $25.00 couple/family. Tickets will be for sale at Coast Books in Gibsons, Talewind Books in Sechelt, Sean & Sara’s Video in Madeira Park and John Henry’s in Garden Bay. Proceeds to the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society and the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre.

MAY 2006

Sunday, May 7, 11AM-5PM, Seventh Annual Wood Duck & Wilderness Festival
It’s that time again - time for flowers to bloom, birds to sing and the 7th annual Ruby Lake Lagoon Wood Duck and Wildreness Festival! The festival is always the first weekend in May - the weekend before Mothers Day so there is a great chance to purchase gifts for Mothers Day and the weather is always wonderful! The Festival is a fundraiser for the Lagoon Society and brings together local artists and craftsmen, conservation organizations, good food, musical talent and lots of great family fun!

This year the festival will be held on Sunday May 7th from 11 am to 5 pm, with an early bird guided hike led by Tony Greenfield leaving from the parking lot at 8:30AM. Once again, we’ve got a great line up of musicians, including Gutbucket Thunder, Soup Bean Katie, Sokole and many more. This year the Festival will focus on the official re-opening the Iris Griffith Centre, and you’ll find many new and exciting changes to the building and nature reserve.

Crafters, artisans and community groups who would like to book a table at the festival this year are invited to call us ASAP at 604-883-9893 or email info@lagoonsociety.com. The Musicians line-up is now Full and looking great. Sorry we cannot accept any more Bands.View Wood Duck Festival Poster

Sunday, May 7, Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre Re-opening
Following renovations, the Iris Griffith Centre will re-open to the public on May 7.

Saturday, May 13, 10AM-1PM, Volunteer Outreach Day Part II
On Saturday, May 13th the second volunteer outreach day will be held at the Iris Griffith Centre. This day is intended as a follow-up for volunteers that attended the first outreach Day in Sechelt, but is also appropriate for anyone interested in volunteering at the Centre. We need volunteers for a variety of projects and jobs, including:

• Construction and carpentry
• Landscaping
• Trail-building
• Child/youth/adult education
• Guiding
• Workshop facilitation
• Bookkeeping
• Reception
• Volunteer coordination
• Communications and Newsletter

Saturday, May 20th, 10:30AM-12:30PM, Docent Volunteer Workshop
We are starting a new docent program at the Iris Griffith Centre. Docents will be able to use the Centre as a site to pursue interests in birds, forestry, mycology or other topics; or else simply enjoy time with friends in a natural setting. In return, docents will lead tours or share their knowledge with visitors. This is a great way to meet new friends or spend time with old ones. If you are interested please contact Donna Pretty, Docent Coordinator, by email Donna Pretty or phone at 885-6076. Learn More

JUNE 2006

Sunday, June 4, 8:30AM-12:30PM, Guided Bird Walk, Klein Lake Trail
Meet at 8:30AM at the Iris Griffith Centre to join local bird expert Tony Greenfield on a guided hike along the Klein Lake Trail. Cost is $20 per person, half-priced for members of the Lagoon Society. Please be advised that hiking conditions may be moderately strenuous.

Sunday, June 4, 1:00-3:00PM, Lagoonies Club
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. Lagoonies will introduce kids to the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands, build artistic and scientific skills, and help kids act as stewards of the environment.

Tuesday, June 6, 7:00PM, Lecture: Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Southwest BC
Dieter Weichert of Natural Resources Canada will present a lecture and slideshow entitled Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Southwest BC: Living on the Edge. Doors open at 7:00PM, cost is $15 per person, half-price for Lagoon Society members.

Sunday, June 11, 1:00-3:00PM, Lagoonies Club - Wonders of Wetlands
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On June 11, the Lagoonie Club theme is Wonders of Wetlands. Kids will enjoy dipnetting for dipnetting for aquatic bugs and tadpoles, then taking a look with microscopes, exploring the Iris Griffith centre and nearby trails, making a cool floating bug craft, and learning about wetlands with some goofy games.

Sunday, June 25, 1:00-3:00PM, Lagoonies Club - Home Sweet Home
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On June 25, the Lagoonie Club theme will be Home Sweet Home: Animal Habitats, so kids should be prepared to build some amazing structures and play our wacky habitats quiz game! There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Sunday, June 25, 10:00-3:00PM, Caren Range Hike
Visit Canada’s oldest closed-canopy forest as guides share their knowledge of ancient rain forest habitats, dendrochronology, flora and fauna. See stunning views of the Sechelt inlet and Georgia Straight. Meet at the parking lot 200 m up Trout Lake Rd. (North entrance). Pack a lunch, raingear and sturdy footwear.
Please pre-register. $20/person, ½ price for members. For information or reservations call (604)741-7639

JULY 2006

Sunday, July 2, Lagoonies Club - Canuck Critters
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On July 2, the Lagoonie Club theme will be Canuck Critters: Discovering Canada's Emblem Animals. Learn all about beavers, loons, caribou and steller's jays by participating in fun arts, crafts and games. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Saturday, July 8, Paddle through the Past
Pender Harbour was once home to the largest First Nations Settlement on the Northwest Coast. Paddle Sakinaw Lake with Sechelt guide Candace Campo and see the District from a different perspective. Learn the history, stories and traditional ecological knowledge of the first residents of this unique region. No paddling experience necessary.
$76.80 includes:

• 3.5 hour guided kayak trip with cultural interpretation
  
• introductory kayaking lesson
  
• kayak rentals
  

Sunday, July 9, Lagoonies Club - 100 Ways to Save the Planet
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On July 9, the Lagoonie Club theme will be 100 Ways to Save the Planet - steps kids can take to protect and improve our environment, from the every day to the extraordinary. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Sunday, July 16, Folktails, Fairytails and Cattails I
The first in our summer story-telling series. Visiting storytellers will present a multimedia performance of a Cuban/West African folktale about two young herons. Meet at the Iris Griffith Centre at 7PM. Bring warm clothes or a blanket. Cost of program: $15. Members and kids half price. Please pre-register by calling (604)741-7639

Sunday, July 16 - Lagoonies Club - SPLASH!
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On July 16, the Lagoonie Club theme will be Splash! Find out about the wildlife in, on and under the waters of Ruby Lake Lagoon. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Monday, July 17 - AGM and SUMMER CELEBRATION
The Lagoon Society Annual General Meeting will take place on Monday July 17 at 7PM at the Iris Griffith Centre. We'll be reviewing our progress through the past year and making plans for the year ahead. We'll also be drawing the winning tickets in our Spring fund-raising raffle. Prizes include the Jewel of the Lagoon - a $17,000 diamond necklace! In addition, Dr. Kurt Grimm will be presenting a talk entitled "What is Sustainability?" With refreshments and many of our fantastic supporters, it promises to be a very pleasant evening. Please join us!

Sunday, July 23 - Lagoonies Club - Bear Aware
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday afternoon. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On July 23, from 1:30-3:00PM Lagoonie Club participants will discover bears and their habitat and will learn how to be bear aware. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Sunday, July 23, Folktails, Fairytails and Cattails II
The second in our summer story-telling series. Local performer Jean Pierre Makosso employs dance and theater to tell stories from Africa. Meet at the Iris Griffith Centre at 12 noon. Cost of program: $15. Members and kids half price. Please pre-register by calling (604)741-7639.

Saturday, July 29, Marine Life
Learn about the amazing denizens of the intertidal zone. Professor Jim Rossi will present a slide show at the Interpretive Centre, followed by a field trip to Francis Point Marine Park. Cost of Program: $20. Half price for members. Meet at 11:30AM at the Interpretive Centre.

Sunday, July 30, Lagoonies Club - LEAN GREEN GROWING MACHINES
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday from 1PM-3PM. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On July 30, the Lagoonie Club theme will be Lean Green Growing Machines. Learn about the amazing ways that plants are adapted to their environments. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

AUGUST 2006

Sunday, August 6, Lagoonies Club - ANIMAL SUPER POWERS
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday afternoon. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On August 6, from 1:00-3:00PM, the Lagoonie Club participants will explore Animal Super Powers - animal features that are beyond belief! There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Sunday, August 13, Folktales, Fairytales and Cattails III
The third in our summer story-telling series. Ted Chamberlin, author of "If This is Your Land, Where are Your Stories?", will bring his story-telling skills to the Iris Griffith Centre. 12PM to 1PM. Cost of the presenation is $15/family, $7.50/family for members.

Sunday, August 13, Lagoonies Club - FRIEND OR FOE?
For the younger crowd, the Lagoonies Club meets every Sunday afternoon. Kids ages 4-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. On August 13, from 1:30PM to 3:00PM, the Lagoonie Club theme will be Friend or Foe - the web of animal relationships. There is no charge for this program but donations are appreciated.

Saturday, August 19, Geology of the Sunshine Coast
Local Geologist John Newell will present a lecture and slide show on the geologic history and features of the Sunshine Coast. 2:00PM at the Iris Griffith Centre. Cost of the presentation is $10. Members 1/2 price.

Saturday, August 26, Bear! A Slideshow Presentation
Bear Aware coordinator Lisa Waldie will teach participants about bear biology and behaviour, and offer safety tips, as well as bear attractant management. 2:00PM at the Iris Griffith Centre. $15, members 1/2 price.

OCTOBER 2006

Sunday, October 1, Garden Bay Lake Shoreline Clean-up
As a follow-up to the Water Fair and Clive Callaway’s inspiring presentation on Shoreline protection, we will be participating in the Great Shoreline Clean-up at Garden Bay Lake. This is an annual, nation-wide event takes place at marine and freshwater sites across Canada to preserve habitat and water quality. Last year at Garden Bay Lake we collected 6 bags of Garbage from Garden Bay Lake! Meet at the T-dock at Elliot and Garden Bay Rd. Clean-up will take place between 12:00 and 3:00 PM.

Saturday, October 7, Caren Range Hike
Join Coastwise Guide John Dafoe on a guided hike to learn about the flora and fauna of one of Canada’s oldest closed-canopy old growth forests. Learn about the dendrochronology, mushrooms, slime molds, and the endangered Marbled Murrelet. Explore the lakes and moss-covered sub-alpine forests. Meet at the Alternative School on Lower Trout Lake Rd. at 10:00 AM. $30 per person/$25 per person for Lagoon Society Members; price includes $10 for driver, $10 for guide. Drivers are always appreciated. For more information, please call John Dafoe at 604-885-6135.

Monday, October 16 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club - Haunted Trail
Kids with a theatrical streak will enjoy helping to set-up and run our Haunted Halloween trail.

October 20-22, Dendrochronology Course
Learn how to read tree rings to gain insight into archaeology, the climate of the past and the life history of trees. This short course lead by forester and guide John Dafoe and biologist John Field will take place on:
Friday Oct 20, 6:30PM-8:30PM - Introduction to Dendrochronology at Iris Griffith Centre
Saturday Oct 21, 10AM-3:00PM - Field study and sample collection in Caren Range
Sunday Oct 22, 6:30PM-8:30PM - Analysis of samples at Iris Griffith Centre
Price: $100 per person / $75 for Lagoon Society members.

Monday, October 23 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club - Haunted Trail
Kids with a theatrical streak will enjoy helping to set-up and run our Haunted Halloween trail.

Sunday, Oct 29, Halloween Special
Bring the kids to the Iris Griffith Centre for some freaky fun! 3:45-4:30PM learn about animal bones from Wendy the Witch. 5:30-7:00PM take a walk along the haunted Deadman’s Trail. $15/family; $10 for members.

NOVEMBER 2006

Sunday, November 5, 10AM-4PM Introduction to Forest Mushrooms
Learn about edible mushroom varieties through a presentation and guided walk with Dr. John Field. Bring sturdy footwear, warm clothing and a basket or paper bag for collecting your own mushrooms. Meet at the Iris Griffith Centre at 10:00 am. $20 per person/$10 for members.

Saturday, November 11, 1PM-4PM Our Changing Climate
Dr. Ron Kydd and Dr. Barry Morrow will present a slideshow and lecture on climate change - the science behind the process, its local and global effects, and what can be done about it. $10 per person/$5 for members. 1pm-4pm at the Iris Griffith Centre.

Sunday, November 12, 2:30-4:30PM Namibia and South Africa
Canada World Youth volunteers on the Sunshine Coast will lead participants on a visual tour of their home countries. Get acquainted with the peoples, landscape and environmental issues of this stunning region. 2:30-4:30PM at the Iris Griffith Centre.

November 18-19, Craft-making Workshop
The Iris Griffith Centre will be transformed into Santa’s Workshop as we build bird boxes, wreaths, and other crafts to sell at the Christmas Fair. Participants will be offered lessons in craft making, hot chocolate, and a fun and creative opportunity to support nature conservation on the Sunshine Coast.

Sunday, November 26, 12:00-8:00PM Annual Christmas Fair and Party
Join us as we celebrate another fantastic year with Christmas goodies, story-telling and carols, and music from and Serena Eades and Steve K. See the premier of Edmund Butler’s film, "On Ruby Lake Lagoon", and get a start on your Christmas shopping with a local craft exhibition from 12:00-4:00PM.

DECEMBER 2006

Saturday, December 16, 10AM-3PM Christmas Garage Sale
Find unique Christmas presents, or clear out your unused items from your home. Proceeds will go to the Iris Griffith Centre and Nature Reserve. To donate items for sale please call (604) 885-6135.

Saturday, December 16, Sunshine Coast Christmas Bird Count
Contact Tony Greenfield at 604-885-5539

Wednesday, December 20, Pender Harbour Christmas Bird Count
The Pender Harbour & District Wildlife Society there is a wonderful opportunity for you all to contribute towards our knowledge of the amazing wildlife of the Sunshine Coast and to breathe in plenty of West Coast fresh air while you are about it. It's the annual Pender Harbour Christmas Bird Count. Join expert-led boat and land-based counting crews, each of which will be assigned a specific route within the overall count circle. Birding expertise is not a pre-requisite for participation - only an interest in birds and a desire to learn more about them. To participate, please contact John Field at 604-883-2807.

FEBRUARY 2007

Sunday, February 11, Tetrahedron Snowshoeing Trip
Join us for a snowshoeing trip up the Tetrahedron. This trip will be guided by park rangers with interpretation from local naturalists. Please pack warm, weather proof clothing and a lunch, we’ll provide transportation up the mountain and interpretation. Those who can provide transportation for themselves and other participants in a 4x4 vehicle with chains will receive some money to cover the cost of fuel. Suggested donation of $20. Snowshoe rentals can be arranged. Please book in advance by calling (604) 741-7639.

MARCH 2007

Wednesday, March 21, 9AM-3PM, Spring Daycamp at the Lagoon!
Children aged 5-10 are invited to join us for a fun day of nature exploration. (High school volunteers wanted). Please pre-register by calling 883-9201, or email info@lagoonsociety.com

Saturday, March 24, 2PM, Marine Life of the Sunshine Coast
Have you ever wondered about the world underneath the waves of the Sunshine Coast? Professor Jim Rossi, and a few of his students in Capilano College’s scuba program, will present a slideshow followed by a guided field trip to Francis Point Park. You’ll learn about amazing creatures of the sea, oceanography and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems and species. Pack a snack, warm, rain proof clothing and sturdy footwear. $15 or half-price for members. Please pre-register by calling 883-9201, or email info@lagoonsociety.com

APRIL 2007

Tuesday, April 10, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Saturday, April 14, 1-3PM, Cedar Weaving Workshop
Learn how the Sechelt people make beautiful weavings from cedar, and discover how to weave your own mat and bracelet. As the Iris Griffith Centre’s artist-in-residence for the month of April, Dionne Paul will present demonstrations and traditional weaving techniques to participants. Cedar material will be provided. $15 or half-price for Lagoon Society members. Please pre-register by calling 883-9201, or email info@lagoonsociety.com

Sunday, April 15, 10AM-5PM, Wetland Restoration Work Party
Get ready for some muddy fun! We’ll be replanting our wetland restoration area every Sunday throughout April from 10 to 5 PM. Kye Goodwin will be on-site to direct. Please bring your gumboots and a bagged lunch.

Tuesday, April 17, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Sunday, April 22, 2-4PM, Green Roof Workshop
The Lagoon Society will be celebrating Earth Day with ecologist and green roof specialist Christine Thuring. Come help develop a pragmatic vision for a living roof on the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre. With an underlying focus on native plants of the Pacific Northwest, Christine's presentation will touch on ecological design and consider the tremendous influence that plant selection has beyond the level of landscape - on the Big Picture of food webs, ecosystem function, landscape connectivity and human biophilia (the love of - and need for - nature).

Sunday, April 22, 10AM-5PM, Wetland Restoration Work Party
Get ready for some muddy fun! We’ll be replanting our wetland restoration area every Sunday throughout April from 10 to 5 PM. Kye Goodwin will be on-site to direct. Please bring your gumboots and a bagged lunch.

Monday, April 23, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Sunday, April 29, 11AM-2PM, Amphibian Survey
Join an amphibian survey in the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve led by UBC Graduate Student Isabelle Deguise. Learn about local amphibian species, and participate in this valuable ecological monitoring activity.

Sunday, April 29, 10AM-5PM, Wetland Restoration Work Party
Get ready for some muddy fun! We’ll be replanting our wetland restoration area every Sunday throughout April from 10 to 5 PM. Kye Goodwin will be on-site to direct. Please bring your gumboots and a bagged lunch.

Monday, April 30, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

MAY 2007

Sunday, May 6, Eighth Annual Wood Duck & Wilderness Festival
It’s that time again - time for flowers to bloom, birds to sing and the 8th Annual Ruby Lake Lagoon Wood Duck and Wilderness Festival! The festival is always the first weekend in May - the weekend before Mothers Day so there is a great chance to purchase gifts for Mothers Day and the weather is always wonderful! The Festival is a fundraiser for the Lagoon Society and brings together local artists and craftsmen, conservation organizations, good food, musical talent and lots of great family fun!

Monday, May 7, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Saturday, May 12 - Paper Mache with Emily and Ken, PART I
Join artists-in-residence Emily Gray and Ken Walters to learn how to make funky paper mache creations. The first workshop will teach participants to make their own object from paper mache. $15/participant. Half price for members.

Monday, May 14, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Monday, May 21, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Saturday May 26, 12-4PM - Paper Mache with Emily and Ken, PART II
Join artists-in-residence Emily Gray and Ken Walters to learn how to make funky paper mache creations. This second workshop will focus on painting and embellishing your creation. $15/participant. Half price for members.

Monday, May 28, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

JUNE 2007

Monday, June 4, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

June 9 & 10, "A Weekend of Song, Inspired by Nature"
Join artists-in-residence Sweet Cascadia for a weekend of music at the Iris Griffith Centre

Saturday June 9th (A day for those who play music and love nature)

• 3:00PM - Song Circle/"Share" shop - Practicing musicians are invited to come up and share their favourite covers or original Nature-inspired music in a beautiful, informal, supportive and creative setting.

• 5:00PM - "Inspiration" Hike/Wander - Explore the trails and view the local flora and fauna of the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve.

• 6:30PM - Potluck Dinner - Bring something that doesn’t require heating.

• 8:00PM - Acoustic Evening Jam Session - Lets get a groove on!

• 10:00PM - Find a spot to lay your head - Bring a sleeping bag/tent? Book in to a nearby hotel or B&B? Drive home?

Sunday, June 10 (A day for those who love music and nature)

• 10:00AM-12:00PM - Public Songwriting workshop - For begining songwriters, tall and small!

• 1:00PM - Sweet Cascadia CD Release Concert - Hear the new 4-song CD "Songs for Iris"! Sing and dance to other Sweet Cascadia favourites!

Details available at: 883-9201. Cost: $20, $10 members.

Monday, June 11, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Saturday, June 16, 1PM-3PM, Painting the World Around Us
Kids especially will enjoy this workshop. Looking at the ecosystem of the nature reserve, they will explore the relationship between themselves and the world they live in. Using paintbrushes and bright colours, participants will depict the many expressions of nature one can observe around the Centre, experimenting with form and colour to create a final painting to take home. Please bring a painting smock or wear old clothes. $15 or half-price for members

Monday, June 18, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Monday, June 25, 3:30-5PM, Lagoonies Club
Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

JULY 2007

Saturday, July 7, 1-3PM, Skowquiltz Valley Slideshow
Join artist-in-residence, Alan Sirulnikoff for a special slideshow presentation about the Skowquiltz valley within the magnificent Great Bear Rainforest.

Saturday, July 14, 1-3PM, Sunshine Coast Scenic & Medicinal Herbs
Join artist-in-residence, Alan Sirulnikoff for a special slideshow presentation featuring the Sunshine Coast and medicinal herbs.

Saturday, July 21, 7PM, British Columbia Scenic & Northern Lights
Join artist-in-residence, Alan Sirulnikoff for a special slideshow presentation featuring Alan's gorgeous photography from around the province, including stunning images of the Northern Lights.

Sunday, July 22, Caren Range Hike
Join Coastwise Guide John Dafoe on a guided hike to learn about the flora and fauna of one of Canada’s oldest closed-canopy old growth forests. Learn about the dendrochronology, mushrooms, slime molds, and the endangered Marbled Murrelet. Explore the lakes and moss-covered sub-alpine forests. Meet at the Alternative School on Lower Trout Lake Rd. at 10:00 AM. $30 per person/$25 per person for Lagoon Society Members; price includes $10 for driver, $10 for guide. Drivers are always appreciated. To pre-register, please call 604-741-7639.

Monday, July 23, 7-9PM, Lagoon Society AGM and Summer Celebration
Please join us at the Iris Griffith Centre to celebrate the accomplishments of another wonderful year. Hear about our exciting plans for the coming year, and learn more about how you can become involved with the Lagoon Society. Artist-in-residence Alan Sirunikoff will present a special slideshow presentation.

Saturday, July 28, 7PM, Gospel Rock and the Caren Range Slideshow
Join artist-in-residence, Alan Sirulnikoff for a special slideshow presentation about these precious Sunshine Coast jewels.

AUGUST 2007

Saturday, August 4, 2-4PM, Plein Air Painting
Artist-in-residence, Jan Poynter will be on-site to share with the public the creative process of book and scientific illustration, reproduction & publication. Visitors are invited to ask questions and discuss with Jan as she works on a landscape painting on site. Other artists are warmly invited to bring their supplies, easels and chairs and join in the outdoor Paint Out Event.

Saturday, August 11, 2-4PM, Trail Walk and Sketch
Join artist-in-residence Jan Poynter for an interpretive trail walk in and around the Ruby Lake Lagoon and Nature Reserve, and discussion of creative inspiration, habitat, flora & fauna. Some materials will be provided on site, including sketch paper, pencils etc. for the public/children to use.

Saturday, August 18, 2-4PM, Plein Air Painting
Artist-in-residence, Jan Poynter will be on-site to share with the public the creative process of book and scientific illustration, reproduction & publication. Visitors are invited to ask questions and discuss with Jan as she works on a landscape painting on site. Other artists are warmly invited to bring their supplies, easels and chairs and join in the outdoor Paint Out Event.

Saturday, August 25, 2-4PM, Trail Walk and Sketch
Join artist-in-residence Jan Poynter for an interpretive trail walk in and around the Ruby Lake Lagoon and Nature Reserve, and discussion of creative inspiration, habitat, flora & fauna. Some materials will be provided on site, including sketch paper, pencils etc. for the public/children to use.

SEPTEMBER 2007

Saturday Sept 1, 12-4PM, Make Your Own Mixed-Media Greeting Card
Join artist-in-residence Annathea McClennan for a special workshop in mixed media art with an emphasis on creating small works or greeting cards. The workshop will involve painting, using different drawing materials (e.g., pastel, charcoal, pencil, watercolour) and will introduce specific techniques such as photocopy transfers, using natural materials and dyes, collage, stamps and a little bit of basic printmaking. Participants should bring 2-3 colour or black and whit photo copied images that they wish to work with. All the materials will be provided and will be non-toxic. $20 or half price for members

Saturday Sept 15, 1-3PM, Creative Wandering
Kids are invited to explore their inner writer through walking the trails of the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve. Writer Christine Parton will guide their writing with skilled and gentle coaching. $10 or half-price for members.

Saturday Sept 22, 12-4PM, Printing without a Press
Join Annathea McClennan to learn a variety of basic printmaking techniques that can be done at home with an emphasis on producing small works or greeting cards. No toxic materials will be used. $20 or half-price for members.

Thursday Sept 27, 6-9PM, Portrait of the Three Ponds
Join Annathea McClennan in an opening reception featuring her paintings of The Three Ponds: An Endangered Wetland. Bring your friends! Refreshments will be served.

OCTOBER 2007

Saturday Oct 6, 10AM-3PM, Green Home Fall Fair Open House
Learn how to put your home in balance with the natural environment. Join us for: Refreshments and entertainment; Hourly tours of the Iris Griffith Centre’s sustainable building components; Guest speaker Helen Goodland of Light House Sustainable Building Center; Youth workshop.

Sunday Oct 7, Mushroom Workshop
Learn about edible mushroom varieties through a presentation and guided walk with Dr. John Field. Bring sturdy footwear, warm clothing and a basket or paper bag for collecting your own mushrooms.

Saturday Oct 13, 11AM-1PM, Green Building 101
As part of our Green Building Workshop Series, join Chris Lindberg from Light House Sustainable Building Centre for an overview of green building issues and options.

Saturday Oct 20, 10AM-1PM, Building Efficiency
As part of our Green Building Workshop Series, former Energuide consultant Jason Steeghs will introduce participants to a variety of ways that they can make their home more energy efficient.

Friday Oct 26, The Natural World: Artists' Reception
Featuring all of the participating Artists-in-residence from our Natural World: An Artists' Celebration.

Saturday Oct 27, 10AM-1PM, Living Roofs
As part of our Green Building Workshop Series, join Anita Green from BCIT’s Centre for the Advancement of Green Roof Technology to learn more about green roofs.

NOVEMBER 2007

Saturday November 10, 11AM-1PM, Alternative Energy I
As part of our Greening Your Home Workshop Series Ian Theaker, Canada Green Building Council’s LEED Program Manager will be presenting the first of two workshops on alternative energy systems.

Saturday November 24, 11AM-1PM, Geo-Exchange Conditioning
As part of our Greening Your Home Workshop Series Luc Delestrade, a building performance analyst with Cobalt Design and Management in Vancouver, will present a detailed review of heating and cooling using geo-exchange systems.

DECEMBER 2007

Saturday and Sunday December 1 and 2, 10AM-4PM, Christmas Craft-making
Join us at the Iris Griffith Centre to make your own Christmas wreath and decorations, and build bird houses and bat houses to give as gifts. By Donation.

Sunday December 16, 3PM-8PM, Christmas Party
Join us as we celebrate another fantastic year with Christmas goodies, carols and story-telling, live music and more!

FEBRUARY 2008

Saturday February 23, 11AM-1PM, Wastewater: Closing the Loop
As part of our Greening Your Home Workshop Series, Dr. Neil Meikleham will provide information about reed bed filtration, composting toilets and conventional waste systems.

MARCH 2008

Saturday March 22, 11AM-1PM, Solar Hot Water. Part of our Greening Your Home Workshop Series. John Dafoe will present the value of Solar Hot Water development in both heating buildings and in domestic hot water. John will explain options for house heating, passive and active solar heating and compare them to geothermal house heating. The Iris Griffith Centre Solar Hot Water installation will be the primary demonstration of this technology. This is a great opportunity for those who are building, wanting to ‘green’ their homes, or for those who are just curious. John Dafoe designed the Iris Grifith Centre building, and installed the centre’s solar power systems. The talk which runs from 11 am until 1 pm will be open, informal and invite discussion. The cost is $20, or $10 if you are a member. People may register in advance by calling 604-883-9201 or 604-741-7639.

May 2008

Sunday May 4, 10AM-2PM, Green Roof Workshop. Part of our Greening Your Home Workshop Series. Green or living roofs are part of a new wave of construction techniques designed to create environmentally friendly buildings. The main benefits of green roofs are greater insulating value, summertime cooling and natural carbon dioxide reduction. Basically a green roof reduces the footprint that a building has on the earth. Would you want a green roof? That depends on many factors, many of which will be examined at the upcoming Green Roof Workshop being held at the Iris Griffith Centre. John Dafoe, designer of the Iris Griffith Centre, will facilitate the workshop. There will be a hands on portion in which participants will be able to assemble cells of plantings that will be applied to a demonstration roof. Please bring a lunch and, if you prefer, gloves for the hands-on portion. The cost is $20, or $10 if you are a member. People may register in advance by calling 604-883-9201. If you have native plants that you would like to donate, please bring them along.

Monday May 5, 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club. Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Monday May 12, 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club. Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Monday May 19, 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club. Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

Saturday/Sunday May 24/25, Sunshine Coast BioBlitz. A celebration of biodiversity, a BioBlitz is a 24-hour count of everything that grows, creeps, crawls, hops, flies or slithers. The First Sunshine Coast BioBlitz will take place on the weekend of May 24 - 25, 2008 to coincide with the worldwide "International Day for Biological Diversity" (May 22). The survey will begin at noon on the Saturday and conclude at noon on Sunday, and will take place within a 5km radius of the Iris Griffith Centre. The Centre will serve as the "scientific base camp," equipped with microscopes, computers, and other scientific tools of the trade. Community members are warmly invited toto interact with scientists at the base camp and also join them out into the field as they undertake a variety of field sampling activities. In addition to participating in the field survey activities, the public will be invited to attend a diversity of special public programs over the course of the weekend. Scientists and naturalists participating in the BioBlitz will each lead different organized interactive events for community members of all ages to enjoy, such as "Herp Hunt", "Butterfly Count", "Pond Dipping", "Dawn Bird Walk" and much more.

Monday May 26, 3:30-5:00PM Lagoonies Club. Kids aged 5-13 are invited to the Iris Griffith Centre to play, explore and make new friends. They will explore the weird and wonderful creatures of wetlands and forests, build artistic and scientific skills, and learn to act as stewards of the environment.

The Lagoon Society is very grateful to the generous contributions of the many private individuals, businesses, foundations, community groups, corporations, and government agencies that make up our many sponsors. We gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia.

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Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society RR#1 Site 20 C16 Madeira Park, BC, V0N 2H0 Phone/Fax: 604-883-9893 Email: info@lagoonsociety.com

Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre 15386 Sunshine Coast Highway 101 North (1KM south of Ruby Lake) Phone: 604-883-9201 Open Daily 10AM to 4PM