Connecting with Nature Lovers in Their Element
Last weekend, we had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the Coldwater Classic, an annual trail running and mountain biking event in Merritt. This event, hosted by Heads or Trails, offered participants challenging 10k and 26k courses through some of BC’s beautiful grassland landscapes.
Our new outreach tent served as the perfect hub for meaningful conversations about conservation. As racers and supporters sought shade between activities, we were able to share information about the irreplaceable grassland ecosystems that surrounded them.
Where Recreation Meets Conservation
The Coldwater Classic provided an ideal setting for our outreach efforts. With approximately 65 attendees including 37 registered participants, we connected with outdoor enthusiasts who already appreciate these landscapes—but may not fully understand their ecological importance.
These conversations highlighted a key aspect of our mission: meeting people where they recreate allows us to build natural bridges between outdoor activities and conservation awareness. The trails these athletes enjoy wind through some of BC’s most sensitive ecosystems—the same grasslands that support over 30% of the province’s species at risk while comprising less than 1% of BC’s land base.
Community Connection
Camping overnight at the event created valuable opportunities to engage with participants in a relaxed setting. The shared experience of enjoying these landscapes fostered authentic discussions about balancing recreation with protection of these key ecosystems.
We were also reminded of the strength of the outdoor community when a local teenager was reported missing during the event. Search and Rescue teams, already on-site for the race, coordinated with organizers and participants to locate the teen, who was found safe.
Looking Forward
Our experience at the Coldwater Classic has informed our outreach strategy moving forward. By establishing partnerships with recreation-focused organizations like Heads or Trails, we can continue to expand our conservation message to new audiences who are already connected to these landscapes.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Heads or Trails team for welcoming us to their event and helping us share our message about protecting BC’s precious grassland ecosystems.
Stay tuned for announcements about where you might find our outreach tent next!
Check out our reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMMEBMsO4Ky/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=bHEydDlnaW1yeGE3
