Fofonoff recognized for dedication and preserving cultural heritage
By Contributor
The winners of The Land Conservancy of BC’s Culture of Conservation Awards were announced on Saturday, September 25 during the land trust’s Annual General Meeting. While TLC works to protect properties of natural, agricultural, and cultural importance across the province, the organization is as much about people as it is places. For the second year, these awards have been presented to people or organizations that have made a significant contribution in building a healthy planet for future generations. Awards were presented to the following recipients: Mountain Equipment Co-op for their ongoing partnership and involvement with the Skaha Conservation Area in Penticton and the Malamute project in Squamish. Heather Pritchard from Pender Island for her ongoing agricultural advocacy work through Farm Folk/City Folk and the Community Farms Program, as well as her advisory role on TLC projects such as Madrona Farm and Keating Farm. Bill Fofonoff from Grand Forks for his dedication to preserving our cultural heritage in B.C., and for the numerous volunteer hours he has dedicated to restoring TLC’s Hardy Mountain Doukhobor Village.
Nathalie and David Chambers from Saanich for their enthusiasm, passion, and determination throughout the campaign to save Madrona Farm. These individuals inspired and educated many people about the importance of local food production and made a difference in their community. “David and I are true believers that a community is one of the most powerful forces in nature, and if we all stand together there is no problem too big for us to solve,” says Nathalie. At the conclusion of the awards presentation, TLC asked each recipient to nominate a classroom or youth group that will be presented with a $150 cheque for a local conservation project. A critical part of saving special places is about building communities, connections, and friendships to build a sense of ownership and empowerment, so that people can and will achieve a culture of conservation that will help sustain a healthy, balanced quality of life for all.
