Frost Centre re-opens

(Apr 23, 2007) The Leslie M. Frost is re-opening – which is good news for environmental and outdoor-education programs.

Hoping to save $1.2-million, the Ontario Liberal government abruptly shut the centre down in July 2004. The protests soon became a province-wide campaign to save the centre. Successful negotiations between the Frost Centre Institute (FCI) and the Ontario government has created a long-term lease agreement, paving the way for a June 2007 re-opening.

A rich history
The FCI has a rich history of environmental and outdoor education. Starting off as a ranger training school in the Depression, the FCI quickly developed a reputation as a leader and innovator in the field serving both youth and adults. Elementary schools, environmental professionals, government groups, NGOs and the private sector all came to learn about sustainable ecosystems and the environment. Several important conferences held at the FCI resulted in the formation of the Council of Outdoor Education of Ontario, Interpretation Canada and the Canadian Network of Environmental Education and Communications (EECOM).

Plans for the future
“The revitalized Frost Centre will support our government’s priorities of healthy living and wellness through recreation and outdoor activities,” says David Caplan, Ontario Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal. “This will also bring economic benefits to the local area, as the peak season arrives through the Frost Centre’s opportunities for tourism and recreation.”

The popular summer camp is also being revitalized at the FCI campus, which has 20 buildings on 40 acres with 762 metres (2,500 feet) on Lake St. Nora. There is also access to the 58,000 acres of groomed hiking trails on Crown land in the Haliburton Highlands. Free environmental-science seminars for Ontario school students and student sponsorship programs will also be offered.

“We have developed an amazing program. Kids are going to love it and learn something in the process,” said Alain Aubry, principal of FCI Group. “The Frost Centre Institute will offer world-class environmental and outdoor education, which can be a source of pride for the community and for the province.”

Enviro-summer camp for kids
The summer camp at the Frost Centre has an extensive environmental program that includes:

Environmental Science Program: Participate in real environmental research projects under the leadership of resident and visiting scientists

Visual Arts Program: Painting, digital photography, sculpture, pottery and stage decor themes taught by some of the top teaching artists in the arts-rich Haliburton Highlands area.

Non-Motorized Water Sports Program: Expert instruction in sailing, kayaking, canoeing and life-saving swimming. Optional SCUBA certification program.

Online registrations are now being accepted.



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