Wings Over the Rockies Festival celebrated its 15th anniversary in May this year.

The week started with the usual birding and nature field trips taking participants to the wetlands, grasslands and forests where they learned the history, geology, flora and fauna of the valley’s natural habitats. Visitors engaged in walking, paddling, kayaking, observing, cycling and photographing.

The week ended with an old-time barn dance, where a good time was had by all. Two founding members played important roles in this event: Bill Swan was the emcee and Larry Halverson gave a retrospective slide show covering 15 years of Wings. This short history of the beginnings of this festival and the involvement of past boards, volunteers and the support of businesses made many realize the significance of this festival for our community and its visitors. This renewed our appreciation and pride we feel for Wings Over the Rockies.

The Wings Over the Rockies board is thankful for the participation of visitors coming from Alberta and BC, and even as far away as Kentucky.

We also appreciate the time and effort given by all our volunteers, presenters and trip leaders who so eagerly give their time and effort to educate and instill an appreciation for our natural heritage.

Wings is made possible only through the support of volunteers and hundreds of businesses, organizations and individuals who have donated funds, services and time.

We’ve had a very dedicated board and a very reliable core of volunteers, some of whom are retiring or moving on. Thank you all for the time given to Wings.

Wings is now looking for volunteers for the positions of Secretary, Registration Co-ordinator and Silent Auction Co-ordinator. We also welcome anyone wishing to volunteer in any other capacity.

If you are interested in volunteering or want to learn more about these positions, please contact me at 250-342-3457.

We look forward to having new individuals join us so we can continue to provide this traditional festival in our valley.

Nory Esteban

Volunteer Co-ordinator