What we’re about
~ Restore, Conserve, and Connect to our Environment throughout Greater Victoria ~
The Greater Victoria Green Team is a regional-wide environmental volunteer program and is part of the National Charity Green Teams of Canada (www.GreenTeamsCanada.ca). We are a group of people from all over the Greater Victoria area who get together to help restore our local environment in the Capital Regional District. We work with Municipal and Provincial Parks, Charities, Non-profit organizations, Societies, Stewardship and Watershed groups to tackle environmental issues through co-operation and teamwork. We also volunteer at farms to promote local sustainable agriculture. Gloves and tools will be supplied as well as refreshments! All ages are welcome* and no experience is necessary. If you care about the environment, local food security, and meeting other passionate people then this is the group for you!
* Volunteers 18 years and under wishing to volunteer are required to have a parent/guardian sign the Greater Victoria Green Team waiver prior to volunteering with the Green Teams. Please fill in form here: http://bit.ly/2GEDEO9 . Failure to have your parent/guardian sign this before the activity will prevent you from participating at our event.
The GVGT is a program of Green Teams of Canada charity: www.greenteamscanada.ca
Our mission
To inspire stewardship of nature by connecting diverse individuals through hands-on educational environmental activities.
Activities include:
• Removing invasive plants that are out-competing and overtaking natural habitat
• Planting native species
• Picking up garbage (especially from shorelines)
• Preparing and harvesting veggie beds
• Unique activities that improve the environment (building trails, monitoring, building nest boxes for birds, etc)
Restoring our environment is a two way street! You will also benefit in many ways:
• Learn first-hand about the environmental issues faced in parks
• Find out about invasive plants and how they are threatening our ecosystems
• Build stewardship and habitat restoration skills
• Conserve, restore and enhance local green spaces
• Spend time outdoors
• Meet like-minded interesting people
• Build knowledge and skills related to local food security
• Get your hands dirty and be active in something you believe in
• Learn to be a leader and work as a team
• Learn about all the amazing work being done by different groups and organizations in the CRD
• Explore places in the CRD you may have never been to before
• Gain volunteer hours (a letter to confirm your hours will be emailed to you as requested)
• Get exercise and have fun!
Contact: Kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca
Donating to the Greater Victoria Green Team
If you love the work we do and want to support us through a donation please click here. The money goes to organizing and running GVGT activities, volunteer management, native plants and trees, snacks, tools and communication materials
History
The Greater Victoria Green Team (GVGT) is a new program of Green Teams of Canada, a charity founded by Lyda Salatian in 2013. The GVGT is the second Green Team to be formed, after the success of the Lower Mainland Green Team.
If you want to stay up-to-date with latest Greater Victoria Green Team happenings check out our Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/greatervictoriagreenteam), Twitter Page (https://twitter.com/GVGreenTeam) and Instagram ([https://www.instagram.com/gvgreenteam/)](https://www.instagram.com/gvgreenteam/))
Check our Youtube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCf2MM0x2a...?
Photos/Video
We may take photos and/or videos at the events. These may be posted here on meetup and/or other sites like youtube. The photos may also be used for communication materials. If you prefer to not be on camera make this clear to whoever is pointing a camera your way and/or duck out! Also please note, photos may be taken of you with products businesses have donated to GVGT volunteers and posted on their facebook pages.
Liability (please read before attending any of our events!)
The organizer and each and every one of its hosts and volunteer participants are in no way responsible and liable for your personal safety and health state, or the safety of your children before, during and at anytime after each event. By RSVPing "Yes", for Greater Victoria Green Team events, you acknowledge that you fully understand the nature of the activities, are aware of risks, and are sufficiently fit and capable of performing the activities, assuming all risks associated with those activities. All attendees hereby release and shall forever hold harmless the Greater Victoria Green Team organizer, all Greater Victoria Green Team hosts and other volunteers attendees and unconditionally waive any liabilities resulting from attending and/or participating in any Greater Victoria Green Team events. By attending our events you are taking personal responsibility for yourself and any minors in your care. Anyone under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
RSVP'ing and not showing up
There are two rules:
1. Because equipment, tools and refreshments are brought to each event based on the number of people coming, it is important for those who have RSVP'd to show up. If you are no longer able to attend an activity, simply "un-RSVP" and leave the activity to make room for another participant. To "un-RSVP" go to where you had originally clicked on "join us" on the event page and click on "change RSVP". Please do this by the day before the event.
2. If you don't show up to an event that has a restricted number of participants, and there is a waiting list for that event, you will be removed from the GVGT unless you have an appropriate reason. You must un-RSVP at least 2 days before an event, especially if that event has a waiting list (to give other members a chance to take your vacated spot and participate). This ensures everyone interested in participating has that opportunity.
Upcoming events
4
Remove Invasive Ivy & meet new people at Dickson Woods!
Dickson Woods, 1234 Willingdon Rd, Sidney, BC, CAWe will be removing invasive plants (mainly English ivy, but also some holly, blackberry & Daphne) from the Dickson Woods forest across from Victoria Airport. This protected area is commonly used as a walking route by locals but is overrun with invasive plants!
This is a great opportunity to meet new people, learn about environmental issues and increase biodiversity :)
This activity will go on rain or shine.
Want to sign up for this activity without using Meetup? email kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca
WHY SIGN UP
You’ll:
- Meet new people
- Learn about local environmental issues
- Improve your mental health in nature connecting with others
- Get some exercise
- Increase biodiversity
- Get volunteer hours (if you need them)
- Eat delicious snacks
- Have fun!! :) (even when it rains!)
REGISTRATION
First time coming out? Fill this out: [http://bit.ly/2WdZeAT](https://greenteams.formstack.com/forms/greater_victoria_green_team_volunteer_registration_form)
18 or under? Get your parent/guardian to fill this out: [http://bit.ly/parentguardianform](https://greenteams.formstack.com/forms/greater_victoria_green_team_volunteer_registration_form_guardian)
You only ever have to fill this form out ONCE
RSVPing
Before you sign up, please make sure you are fully committed to participating. We ensure there is enough staff, buy refreshments and bring gloves/tools based on the number of people signed up.
By RSVPing and not showing up, or changing your RSVP at the last minute, you may be taking a spot away from someone who wants to participate. Let’s honour each other’s time and be considerate of one another.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may come up. If you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP right away.
SET UP & TAKE DOWN
Want to come early and help set up and/or stay a little longer and help with take down? Email [Kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca](mailto:kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca)
MEETING SPOT
Meet across the road from 1234 Willingdon Rd at the entrance to the Dickson Woods forest. There is a crosswalk with flashing lights for you to safely cross the road.
Leaders from both Greater Victoria Green Team will be at the entrance to the site to help direct you in and provide parking directions
We will be working on a protected forest area that is bordered by private property so please be respectful of neighbours!
PARKING
There is parking available on the shoulder of Willingdon Road. We will help direct you when you arrive. Please head towards the YYJ Pollinator Garden (1234 Willingdon Rd) and pull over to the side of the road there.
CYCLING
This activity location is right by Lochside Regional Trail and is a great opportunity to use your bike to travel through the region!
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
BUS
Plan your bus route with BC Transit Victoria
CARPOOLING
Log in & use “comments” at the bottom of this page to say you need a ride or can offer a ride. You may also send us a message to include in an email to attendees.
Staff will not coordinate rides, they will only pass on the info that you are offering/looking for a ride.
Please ensure you communicate meeting points and times clearly and prioritize your safety. Community members who carpool do so at their own risk.
Staff cannot offer rides.
WASHROOMS
There is no public washroom at this location so please use a washroom before arriving.
WHAT TO BRING
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty
- Long sleeves and long pants to protect from thorny plants, & insects
- Refillable water bottle with water (we have water for refills)
- Sturdy closed toe shoes/boots
- Rain jacket in case it rains
- Hat
- Your own gardening gloves, tools and/or safety glasses if you prefer - otherwise we’ll provide these.
WHAT WE PROVIDE YOU
- Gloves, tools and safety glasses
- Education and demonstration on what we will be doing (no experience necessary!)
- Refreshments (e.g. baked goods, veggies, fruits, granola bars)
- Photos of you in action
- Volunteer letters (on request)
FLOW OF THE ACTIVITY
At 9.45am sign in, followed by instruction and engaging in this activity. Halfway through we’ll take a break, go back to engaging in the activity and then we end at 1pm
PARTNER
A BIG thank you to our Community Investment Partner, Victoria Airport Authority. Their financial support and commitment to our shared goals enables us to promote environmental stewardship and community well-being
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge with respect and gratitude the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, upon which land this activity will take place. For many generations, they have maintained a deep connection to the land, waters and all living things. As guests on this land, we are grateful for the opportunity to learn.
Questions?
Email: kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca21 attendees
Meet Friends & Remove Invasive Plants at UVic!
UVic Alumni Chip Trail, 48°27'34.5"N 123°18'52.7"W, Oak Bay, BC, CA## We are removing invasive English ivy, holly, and Himalayan blackberry from UVic!
Please meet us by the entrance to Alumni Chip Trail off of University Drive (near Finnerty Gardens) Google Map Pin here: https://bit.ly/4gTWR0X
This is a great opportunity to meet new people, learn about environmental issues and increase biodiversity :)
This activity will go on rain or shine.
WHY SIGN UP
You’ll:
- Meet new people
- Learn about local environmental issues
- Improve your mental health in nature connecting with others
- Get some exercise
- Increase biodiversity
- Get volunteer hours (if you need them)
- Eat delicious snacks
- Have fun!! :) (even when it rains!)
VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION
First time coming out? Fill this out: [http://bit.ly/2WdZeAT]
18 or under? Get your parent/guardian to fill this out: [http://bit.ly/parentguardianform]
You only ever have to fill this form out ONCE. This form does not sign you up for activities it just registers you as a volunteer with our charity.
SIGNING UP
Please sign up through this event page or by emailing kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca
Before you sign up, please make sure you are fully committed to participating. We ensure there is enough staff, buy refreshments and bring gloves/tools based on the number of people signed up.
By RSVPing and not showing up, or changing your RSVP at the last minute, you may be taking a spot away from someone who wants to participate. Lets honour each other’s time and be considerate of one another.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may come up. If you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP right away.
SET UP & TAKE DOWN
Want to come early and help set up and/or stay a little longer and help with take down? Email [kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca]
MEETING SPOT
Please meet us here: https://bit.ly/4gTWR0X by the entrance to Alumni Chip Trail off of University Drive, across from Finnerty Gardens
PARKING
Park in UVic Lot 6 (near the Multifaith Centre and Finnerty Gardens) and walk towards Finnerty Gardens, following our arrow signs to walk along the pathway to our meeting location.
UVic parking lots are free to park on Sundays
CYCLING
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
Covered bike parking available on site at the Visual Arts Building on campus across the street from our meeting spot.
BUS
There are many busses that will take you to UVic
Plan your bus route with BC Transit Victoria
CARPOOLING
Log in & use “comments” at the bottom of this page to say you need a ride or can offer a ride. You may also send us a message to include in an email to attendees.
Staff will not coordinate rides, they will only pass on the info that you are offering/looking for a ride.
Please ensure you communicate meeting points and times clearly and prioritize your safety. Community members who carpool do so at their own risk.
Staff cannot offer rides
WASHROOMS
There are washrooms in Mcpherson Library nearby
WHAT TO BRING
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty
- Long sleeves and long pants to protect from thorny plants, & insects
- Refillable water bottle with water (we have water for refills)
- Sturdy closed toe shoes/boots
- Rain jacket in case it rains
- Hat
- Your own gardening gloves, tools and/or safety glasses if you prefer - otherwise we’ll provide these.
WHAT WE PROVIDE YOU
- Gloves, tools and safety glasses
- Education and demonstration on what we will be doing (no experience necessary!)
- Refreshments (e.g. baked goods, veggies, fruits, granola bars)
- Photos of you in action
- Volunteer letters (on request)
FLOW OF THE ACTIVITY
At 9.45am sign in, followed by instruction and engaging in this activity. Halfway through we’ll take a break, go back to engaging in the activity and then we end at 1pm
PARTNER
A BIG thank you to our Community Investment Partner, the UVic Office of Campus Planning & Sustainability. Their financial support and commitment to our shared goals enables us to promote environmental stewardship and community well-being
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge with respect and gratitude the traditional territories of the Songhees, W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, the Lekwungen speaking Songhees and Esquimalt peoples upon which land this activity will take place. For many generations, they have maintained a deep connection to the land, waters and all living things. As guests on this land, we are grateful for the opportunity to learn.
Questions?
email: kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca57 attendees
Remove Invasive Ivy with Friends at Dickson Woods in North Saanich!
Dickson Woods, 1234 Willingdon Rd, Sidney, BC, CAWe will be removing invasive plants (mainly English ivy, but also some holly, blackberry & Daphne) from the Dickson Woods forest across from Victoria Airport. This protected area is commonly used as a walking route by locals but is overrun with invasive plants!
This is a great opportunity to meet new people, learn about environmental issues and increase biodiversity :)
This activity will go on rain or shine.
Want to sign up for this activity without using Meetup? email kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca
WHY SIGN UP
You’ll:
- Meet new people
- Learn about local environmental issues
- Improve your mental health in nature connecting with others
- Get some exercise
- Increase biodiversity
- Get volunteer hours (if you need them)
- Eat delicious snacks
- Have fun!! :) (even when it rains!)
REGISTRATION
First time coming out? Fill this out: [http://bit.ly/2WdZeAT]
18 or under? Get your parent/guardian to fill this out: [http://bit.ly/parentguardianform]
You only ever have to fill this form out ONCE
RSVPing
Before you sign up, please make sure you are fully committed to participating. We ensure there is enough staff, buy refreshments and bring gloves/tools based on the number of people signed up.
By RSVPing and not showing up, or changing your RSVP at the last minute, you may be taking a spot away from someone who wants to participate. Let’s honour each other’s time and be considerate of one another.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may come up. If you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP right away.
SET UP & TAKE DOWN
Want to come early and help set up and/or stay a little longer and help with take down? Email [Kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca]
MEETING SPOT
Meet across the road from 1234 Willingdon Rd at the entrance to the Dickson Woods forest. There is a crosswalk with flashing lights for you to safely cross the road.
Leaders from both Greater Victoria Green Team will be at the entrance to the site to help direct you in and provide parking directions
We will be working on a protected forest area that is bordered by private property so please be respectful of neighbours!
PARKING
There is parking available on the shoulder of Willingdon Road. We will help direct you when you arrive. Please head towards the YYJ Pollinator Garden (1234 Willingdon Rd) and pull over to the side of the road there.
CYCLING
This activity location is right by Lochside Regional Trail and is a great opportunity to use your bike to travel through the region!
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
BUS
Plan your bus route with BC Transit Victoria
CARPOOLING
Log in & use “comments” at the bottom of this page to say you need a ride or can offer a ride. You may also send us a message to include in an email to attendees.
Staff will not coordinate rides, they will only pass on the info that you are offering/looking for a ride.
Please ensure you communicate meeting points and times clearly and prioritize your safety. Community members who carpool do so at their own risk.
Staff cannot offer rides.
WASHROOMS
There is no public washroom at this location so please use a washroom before arriving.
WHAT TO BRING
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty
- Long sleeves and long pants to protect from thorny plants, & insects
- Refillable water bottle with water (we have water for refills)
- Sturdy closed toe shoes/boots
- Rain jacket in case it rains
- Hat
- Your own gardening gloves, tools and/or safety glasses if you prefer - otherwise we’ll provide these.
WHAT WE PROVIDE YOU
- Gloves, tools and safety glasses
- Education and demonstration on what we will be doing (no experience necessary!)
- Refreshments (e.g. baked goods, veggies, fruits, granola bars)
- Photos of you in action
- Volunteer letters (on request)
FLOW OF THE ACTIVITY
At 9.45am sign in, followed by instruction and engaging in this activity. Halfway through we’ll take a break, go back to engaging in the activity and then we end at 1pm
PARTNER
A BIG thank you to our Community Investment Partner, Victoria Airport Authority. Their financial support and commitment to our shared goals enables us to promote environmental stewardship and community well-being
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge with respect and gratitude the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, upon which land this activity will take place. For many generations, they have maintained a deep connection to the land, waters and all living things. As guests on this land, we are grateful for the opportunity to learn.
Questions?
Email: kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca17 attendees
Make Friends & Remove Invasive Plants in Colwood Creek Park!
Sunridge Valley Drive, Sunridge Valley Dr, Colwood, BC, CAWe will be helping out with the restoration of this incredible park by removing invasive Himalayan blackberry, increasing the health of the ecosystem. A great opportunity to meet people & have fun outside!
First Time Volunteering with us?
Please fill in Volunteer Registration if this is the first time you are volunteering with the Green Team: http://bit.ly/2WdZeAT. You only need to fill out this form ONCE.
We will be working rain or shine.
Want to sign up without Meetup? email Kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca
MEETING SPOT/PARKING
There is a parking lot at Colwood Creek Park: turn right onto Sun Ridge Valley Dr. from Brittany Dr. If coming from the other direction, turn onto Sun Ridge Valley Drive from Jacklin Road. Park in the parking lot to Colwood Creek Park (the playground and waterpark are distantly visible from the parking lot).
Precise Meeting location: Walk into the park past the waterpark and playground, and over the little bridge. We will be working to the left hand side of the park after the bridge.
Use the comments section to arrange carpooling!
Bus: There is a bus stop about a 20 minute walk away at Phipps Rd x Langford Parkway that is serviced by the “blink” rapid bus #95. The Langford Exchange bus station is also about a 20 minute walk and is serviced by many bus routes.
Check BC Transit Schedules to plan your route here: https://www.bctransit.com/victoria/home
WASHROOMS
There are no washrooms at this park. Please use the washroom before arriving at this activity.
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING
• Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty
• Long sleeves and long pants to protect from thorny plants and insects
• Refillable water bottle with lots of water (we will have water for you to refill with if needed!)
• Sturdy closed toe shoes/boots
• A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Optional: Your own gardening gloves, tools, and/or safety glasses
WHAT WILL BE PROVIDED TO YOU
• Gloves, tools, and safety glasses
• An educational instruction on what to do (no experience necessary!)
• Refreshments including a variety of snacks and drinks
FLOW OF THE ACTIVITY
• Meet at 9:45am for sign-in & introductions (please be on time)
• Receive instruction & demo for the activity
• Remove invasive plants
• Take break for refreshments half way through
• Continue removing invasive plants until 1 pm then sign-out at end
REGISTER AS A GREEN TEAM VOLUNTEER AHEAD OF TIME ONLINE
• If you haven't yet, register online (You only need to fill out this form once): http://bit.ly/2GEDEO9
• Get your parent to sign this form if you are under 19: http://bit.ly/parentguardianform
PARTNER
This activity is being made possible thanks to financial support and direction from our Community Investment Partner, The City of Colwood
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING
• Learn about local environmental issues and how to address them
• Meet new people & be part of a community
• Improve your mental & physical health by being in nature
• Get exercise & fresh air in a beautiful green space
• Revitalize a local green space & increase biodiversity
• Learn how to identify invasive plants & how to remove them
• Get volunteer hours
• Have FUN!
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
All Greater Victoria Green Team activities take place on the traditional and unceded territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, the Lekwungen speaking Songhees & Esquimalt peoples, and the nations who form the Te'mexw Treaty Association. We respectfully acknowledge the longstanding relationships these groups have with the land that stretch from time immemorial to the present day. We are extremely grateful to be able to run environmental stewardship activities on these lands.
Questions?
email: kaitlin@greenteamscanada.ca35 attendees
Past events
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