Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Wardens volunteered their time to give kids the trip of a lifetime and a new appreciation of the natural wonders that can be found in Ontario.
This is the fifth year for the Kids and Wardens Fishing Trip, which allowed 20 inner city youth – this time from the St. Albans Boys and Girls Club of Toronto – to make a 12 hour bus trek to experience the wonders of the outdoors at Horwood lake Lodge near Timmins.
This event was made possible by the Ontario Conservation Officers Association (OCOA) in partnership with Horwood Lake Lodge, the Ontario Public Service Employees Union and a host of other sponsors.
From July 18 to 22, these lucky youngsters experienced first class walleye fishing – guided by OCOA members – using the lodge facilities provided free of charge by Horwood Lake Lodge. In addition to the fishing, the kids learned canoeing skills from Missinaibi Headwaters Outfitters, tried their hand at using forest firefighting equipment with an MNR Fire Ranger crew, and were introduced to wilderness survival and the MNR Enforcement program by Conservation Officers. And of course there was a big fish fry and lots of smores by the campfire.
Not only were the children able to experience the excitement of the trip; they returned home fully outfitted with rods, reels, tackle, sleeping bags, rain suits, and all the other equipment needed to create their own adventures once they got home.
For more information about the OCOA or this Adventure, or to get involved, please visit the OCOA website at www.ocoa.ca.
OPSEU is proud to have been a supporter of the Kids and Wardens Fishing Trip.
