About Us
Scout Island Nature Centre is a relatively natural, wild area consisting of three islands surrounded by marsh and Williams Lake.
The Nature Centre property, largely owned by The Nature Trust of BC, was purchased in 1973 to protect the ecologically significant marsh, riparian, and upland ecosystems located within an urban setting, where there were considerable opportunities for public nature enjoyment and awareness.
For almost 50 years, it has been a place where people of all ages can enjoy and learn about native birds, plants and animals.
Scout Island was part of a Secwépemc village site prior to colonization and it is of historical significance to many Indigenous people. Scout Island and surrounding areas have abundant evidence of First Nation’s occupation, including house pits, cache pits, and stone points and flakes.
For those interested in the history of Scout Island, “The Scout Island Story” is available for purchase at the Nature House.
Things to do at Scout Island
Our Mission and Goals
Scout Island Nature Centre’s mission is to encourage a deeper knowledge and connection with nature among people of all ages through nature education programs and provision of facilities and guides that encourage greater exposure to nature, especially on the Scout Island property and adjacent marshlands.
Our Goals
- Offer nature education and interpretation to all ages
- Conserve the Nature Centre’s wildlife habitat, vegetation and other natural values
- Provide a natural place for viewing wildlife and plants, facilitated by a system of walking trails
Photo credits: Michell Obre (left), Tanya Deanne (centre), Michell Obre (right)
Our Management
Scout Island Nature Centre is operated by the Williams Lake Field Naturalists in cooperation with The Nature Trust of British Columbia and the City of Williams Lake.
Through the volunteer efforts of the Field Naturalists, the financial support from many donors, and the work of the amazing paid staff, the Nature Centre offers education programs, and maintains the grounds, trails, boardwalks, Nature House and interpretive signs for visitors.
As a volunteer-operated, not-for-profit, registered Canadian charity, we rely on the support of our community. Our funding comes from public fundraising appeals and events, fee-for-service agreements with the City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District, grants from government agencies and foundations, and donations from people like you.
If you love Scout Island as much as we do Get Involved.
Nature Education
Nature Education programs have been offered at the Nature Centre since 1977 and they continue to be the focus of our activities. Our nature education programs are designed to encourage the bond between people and nature.
School programs, held throughout the year, are led by our Education Coordinator and other Nature Educators. During the summer months, Student Naturalists provide a variety of programs for children.
Exploring the Puddle Preschool
As of 2025, Scout Island Nature Centre is hosting Exploring the Puddle’s Puddle Explorers, an intrepid group of preschool children at Scout Island enjoying nature in all seasons. For information about this Nature Preschool, please visit Exploring the Puddle’s website.
Our Staff
Manager
Lara Roorda
manager@scoutisland.ca
Education Coordinator
Martin Kruus
ed.coordinator@scoutisland.ca
Caretaker and groundkeeper
Scout Island wouldn’t be what it is without the help of these caring and dedicated folks.
Photo: Arnold Lucier (groundskeeper)
Nature Educators
Mary Forbes
Mark Gill
Erin Hitchcock
Host Staff
Our wonderful high school staff and volunteers assist visitors, take care of the Nature House and all of it’s resident creatures!
Student Naturalists (spring/summer)
These young people are passionate about helping kids learn about nature.