This Thursday, August 1st, eight young leaders from across the province are embarking on a trip of a lifetime down the mighty Fraser River.
Taking part in the Sustainable Living Leadership Program (SLLP)—a 25-day, 1,400 km educational adventure run by the not-for-profit Rivershed Society of BC—the group will journey the route of the salmon from the Fraser River’s headwaters near Mount Robson to the shores of Vancouver. Traveling by canoe, raft, shuttle van, and on foot, participants learn about sustainable living and responsible community and resource development, all while being immersed in the breathtaking scenery of the Fraser River.
During the trip, the SLLP participants are also designing a sustainability project to implement in their home communities upon their return.
“You’re outdoors and you’re plugged into nature,” says Fin Donnelly, the program’s founder who is also the MP for New Westminster, Coquitlam and Port Moody. “When they complete the program, the participants have gained some practical skills and shared an experience that will inspire them to action.”
If you are on the Fraser River this August, keep an eye out for the group as they pass through your community. If you would like to meet them, stop by and say hi at the following locations, but please keep in mind these dates and times are subject to change due to weather, logistics or other unforeseen circumstances:

· Saturday, August 10 – Morning hike through Ancient Cedar rainforest, Hwy 16 near Crescent Spur

· Sunday, August 11 – Cultural Day Celebration at Xat'sull Heritage Village, Soda Creek (north of Williams Lake)

· Monday, August 12 – Afternoon DFO juvenile fish net demonstration at Sheep Creek Bridge, Williams Lake

· Saturday, August 17 – Salmon in the Canyon Festival at Cayoosh Creek Campground, Lillooet

· Thursday, August 22 – Morning tour of Glen Valley Organic Farm, Langley

· Friday, August 23 – Lunch at the Fraser River Discovery Centre, New Westminster

· Saturday, August 24 – Paddle completion and afternoon arrival at Jericho Sailing Club, Vancouver


For updates on the group’s progress down the river, or to learn more about this year’s participants and their community project ideas, visit www.rivershed.com  or follow the Rivershed Society of BC on Twitter or Facebook.
- 30 -
Interview and photo opportunities are available before the participants depart on August 1, or at the stops outlined in the press release above. For more information and for photos and video of previous trips, visit the Rivershed Society’s website at www.rivershed.com 
To arrange an interview, contact:
Richelle Giberson
604 992 4769
richelle@rivershed.com