History
Land Acknowledgement
We would like to thank the Skwxwú7mesh Nation, upon whose unceded traditional territory Cheakamus Centre resides. We value the opportunity to welcome others to learn, gather and share in nature on this traditional territory. The land Cheakamus Centre is situated on has always been a place of learning for the Chʼiyáḵmesh people, who for millennia have passed on their culture, history, and traditions from one generation to the next on this site.
Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Environmental Education
Our organization, much like the natural world, will continue to grow and change. We invite you to explore the major milestones that have helped define Cheakamus Centre today.
- 1969
- North Vancouver Outdoor School established by the North Vancouver School District
- 1970
- Eastview Elementary brings first class of grade 6's to attend Outdoor School
- 1982
- Salmon Hatchery is built
- 1985
- Skw'une-was Cultural Immersion Program established
- 1986
- North Vancouver Outdoor Alumni Society established
- 1996
- Nature Conservancy of Canada conservation covenant granted
- 1999
- Dave Marshall Salmon Reserve dedicated by Department of Fisheries and Oceans
- 2007
- BlueShore $1 Million Legacy Fund awarded to build new environmental learning centre
- 2008
- Advisory Committee formed to guide campus renewal
- 2009
- Cheakamus Foundation for Environmental Learning formed
- 2012
- LEED® Platinum BlueShore Environmental Learning Centre opens its doors
- 2013
- Rebranding to Cheakamus Centre - nature is in session
- 2014
- Launch of new and enhanced environmental education programs for all ages
- 2015
- BlueShore Financial Environmental Learning Centre awarded prestigious LEED® Platinum Certification
- 2018
- Squamish Chamber of Commerce Green Excellence Award Recipient (Squamish Climate Action Network)
- 2019
- 50th Year of Cheakamus Centre and the Outdoor School Program
