Princeton, BC: To get our campers to really notice their surroundings we had them do a BioBlitz. A Blitz is an activity where everyone independently explores their surroundings and records as many living species as they can. We then move to a different location in search of what might change in our findings depending on the setting. 

The Osoyoos Desert Centre is a interpretive facility sitting on 67 acres of endangered ecosystem. Their boardwalk takes you past educational signs and sights and the centre itself is home to wonderful displays of local organisms. By visiting, donating, and sharing the importance of Canada's "pocket desert" you can have a positive impact.

In the Okanagan and Similkameen invasive species are having huge impacts on local flora and fauna. OASISS is combating those species through education on prevention, detection and management. We asked OASISS to join our Species at Risk camps in Oliver and Osoyoos and our campers truly benefited from the hands on experience. 

The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve boasts trails full of bird blinds and lookouts, and I had the opportunity to explore the Interpretive Center. It houses a beautiful collection of preserved species, a few that not even the Royal BC Museum has in its collection! Get involved as a volunteer, bring your school, or even adopt a Great Blue Heron nest.

Having grown up in Delta, I've always considered Burns Bog as an extension of my own backyard. The Bog is a beautiful ecosystem that is "globally unique" and at least 400 species of migratory birds have been seen passing through there. With running events, tours, and summer camps, there are many ways to get involved and to learn more. 

Pachena Point, 1944. People from the area surrounding the lighthouse gather to visit the wreck of the Russian frieghter "Uzbekistan". The "Graveyard of the Pacific" claimed the Uzbekistan when it ran aground in 1943 due to a navigational error. The ship was subsequently torn apart by storms and rough seas.

Royal BC Museum Textile Conservators Colleen Wilson and Kjerstin Mackie highlight the effort that goes into conserving textile collections through their work on one dress which will be part of the 2015 Gold Rush exhibition.

Entomology Collection Manager Claudia Copley discussed the collection she cares for (insects!), how important insects are to ecosystems, studies of biodiversity, and the crucial role they play supporting human life.