I was born in Victoria and have spent most of my life here. When I was growing up I went on many adventures to properties taken care of by The Land Conservancy, such as Sooke Potholes, Christmas Hill, and Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse. Whether it was with school, summer camp, or my dad taking us for walks or camping, these trips were such an important part of my childhood.

I didn’t have a lot of time with my father while I was growing up and those camping trips were a rare opportunity to bond with him outside of the court-ordered one weekend a month visit. He was able to share with me his love, interest, and knowledge of nature, which I believe helped foster my passion for it as well.

I now have two children of my own, and even though it is a challenge to find the time and energy to take them out after a day of studying and keeping house, I try to take them out a few times a week to be in nature. One of my many hopes for my children is that they care for nature and become aware of how essential it is for everyone to take an active part in its care and preservation.

Because I care for the environment and nature and want to be an active participant in maintaining its future, I am currently working towards a Diploma in General Studies from Thompson Rivers University Online, which will fulfill the requirement for entry into the Certificate in Environmental Practice at Royal Roads University. Once I complete these studies I hope to work directly with people locally and internationally to teach them how to incorporate preservation into their lifestyle.

When I read that The Land Conservancy was facing financial difficulties I became immediately concerned for the future welfare of the lands protected by TLC. The current political climate doesn’t favour environmental stewardship, and so it is left to caring individuals to join together and ensure its future.

Every mother waits for the day her child learns to help. Mother nature is no different. ~Miranda Chapman, TLC supporter