January 01, 2005
This past year has been a year of excitement, uncertainty and change. It was exciting because of the purchase of the 5,000 acres by four levels of government. Uncertain because we are not sure what our future role will be with the Bog. And the recent changes of ownership have meant that we can no longer give Central Bog tours.
As a result of the Bog’s purchase, we surveyed more than 30,000 households and members. We asked people what we should do next. Overwhelmingly, the message was that we were to continue working to save the missing 510 acres, build an Interpretive Centre, and work for UNESCO World Heritage designation for Burns Bog. In other words, we must continue to fulfill our mandate which is to protect the ecological integrity of Burns Bog, provide facilities for public enjoyment and educate people about the ecological values of bogs world-wide by focusing on Burns Bog.
With the help of our many supporters we are continuing to do just that. But we will need your ongoing support. Our fundraising is a challenge because so many people think that the government funds us. They do not. You, our members, supporters and corporate sponsors, fund us.
Add volunteer hours into the mix. Some of our volunteers do not even bother to log their hours although we encourage them to. Our volunteers assemble our letters and repair the boardwalk in the Delta Nature Reserve. Our Special Events Committee organizes events like Celebrating Women and the Spirit of the Cranes, International Bog Day, Jog for the Bog and our Anniversary Celebration.
Our board members attend meetings and special events, give tours, fundraise, sit on committees, supervise volunteers, and maintain the boardwalk in the Delta Nature Reserve.
A big thank you to our staff, board, volunteers, members, funders and supporters. We could not be here carrying out the Society’s mission without your help and support in the future. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Eliza Olson
