Importance of getting to know the outdoors

Recent events in the world, like the devastating oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, have once again highlighted the potential problems that come from man’s interaction with nature. We face clear challenges and an uncertain future due to climate change, environmental challenges and numerous threats to species around the world. The irony is that we possess a stronger base of knowledge about the environment and are more aware of the global impact of human activity than ever before young people especially are more educated about the environment than at any other time in history.

What is missing, however, are the direct experiences with the outdoors that foster a more lasting connection with the environment and the species that inhabit it. My own time in nature confirms the research that characterizes the power that direct interaction with nature has in developing lasting relationships between humans and the environment.

I believe strongly that we are bound to do more to encourage a more profound engagement with nature among the next generation, which is why I am excited to support the Robert Bateman Get to Know Program. Get to Know is an international non-profit organization based in Kelowna that seeks to provide opportunities for youth to connect with nature through outdoor educational experiences. The Get to Know Program encompasses a number of initiatives, including an Art and Writing Contest, currently running until May 28th, which fosters a connection between outdoor exploration and creativity. The Get to Know Society will also be hosting a very special conference from June 7-9, when senior representatives from prominent environmental organizations in the US and Canada will gather in Kelowna to develop a strategy and a call to action to get kids outdoors and connecting with their neighbours of other species.

As a dentist, I understand the tremendous value in fostering a greater awareness of proper dental care. There is a lot to know about proper oral hygiene, but it is just as important to me that my patients understand how greater awareness will lead to healthier lifestyles and a healthier world. The same is true of the environment: if the next generation does not appreciate the value of preserving the environment by truly connecting with it, no amount of education will bring about the changes we need to make to reverse the damage done to nature, and prevent it from happening again.

It is our duty as parents, grandparents, teachers and friends of nature to do our utmost to encourage young people as they take up the torch as guardians of this beautiful world.


Dr. Jack DeGruchy