Latest news with #RegionalPark
CTV News
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Birdwatching takes flight in Regina with library backpacks and brewery competition
Birdwatching is soaring in popularity across Regina, and two local institutions are giving residents everything they need to keep their eyes on the skies. The Regina Public Library (RP)L has re-launched the fourth year of their birding backpacks, available for anyone with a library card. Each backpack includes high-quality binoculars, a Saskatchewan bird field guide, and even some room to pack a lunch. 'You can pack your lunch and a water bottle as well. There are some really high-quality binoculars, a birding guide, and the Field Guide to Saskatchewan Birds for quick identification.' said Geoffrey Allen, director of collections at RPL. The program is designed to make birdwatching accessible for beginners and encourages people of all ages to explore nature in and around the city. The bird packs can be borrowed for up to three weeks at a time and also includes a one-week visitor pass to any Regional Park in Saskatchewan. Even without a backpack, Allen recommends trying the free Merlin Bird ID app, which can identify birds through photos and sound recordings. 'It's a really wonderful way to get introduced to birding,' he said. Meanwhile, just a few blocks away in Regina's Heritage neighbourhood, Malty National Brewing is also embracing the birding boom. The local craft brewery is hosting a month-long birdwatching competition, inviting patrons to spot as many bird species as they can. Birding (Damian Smith / CTV News) 'It's been great,' said Adam Smith, co-owner of Malty National. 'We've been having people come down who haven't been here before. It's been a fun thing, and you see people online tagging us.' The competition idea came from one of Smith's business partners, Kelsey Beach, who is an avid bird watcher himself. The final event on Aug. 19 will wrap up the challenge, will include trivia, a meet-and-greet for local birders, and the announcement of the big contest winner. 'It's all honour-based,' Smith laughed. 'You solemnly swear that you saw all the birds—but we believe you.' With free gear, friendly competition, and a growing community of bird lovers, Regina citizens are keeping their eyes on the prize - and the skies.
Hamilton Spectator
27-06-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Visit a Park This Summer
This summer, the Government of Canada has initiated the Canada Strong Pass to promote Canadian tourism. Running until September 2, the pass grants free admission to national parks, national historic sites and marine conservation areas maintained by Parks Canada. The pass also includes a 25 per cent discount on camping fees at participating national parks and free national museum admission for children 17 and under, and a 50 percent discount for 18- to 24-year-olds. 'This pass is about discovering and reconnecting with the nature, history and culture of this remarkable country we all share and are proud to call our own,' Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault told a Monday, June 16 press conference. Via Rail is also offering free fares for children 17 and under if they are accompanied by an adult, and a 25 per cent discount for travellers 18 to 24 years old. There is no physical 'Canada Strong Pass' or registration required; visitors can just show up at participating locations and enjoy the experience. Guilbeault said that people who have already purchased park passes or have booked camping or a Via Rail trip can contact the relevant agency for a refund. Some provincial and territorial museums and galleries are taking part by offering free admission for minors and a 50 per cent discount for visitors aged 18 to 24. Again, this year, Regional Park passes will be available from local libraries. Library patrons with a valid library card can borrow a Saskatchewan Regional Park pass from June 16 to September 15, 2025. The passes are valid for 7-day loan periods and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Local libraries in the Wapiti Regional Library system and the Wheatland Regional Library system have the passes available for loan. This summer, visit a park or a museum and learn more about Canada. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
