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 the GVGT Program Manager, Kaitlin Warren at 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/))
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+)
See all- Make Friends & Remove Invasive Plants at UVic!Alumni Chip Trail, Capital, BC
We're removing invasive plants (such as English ivy) from the University of Victoria campus.
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!)
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. 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 severine@GreenTeamsCanada.ca
MEETING SPOT
Meet by the entrance to Alumni Chip Trail nearest Parking Lot 10 HERE: https://bit.ly/48OjeQg (parking lot in between Midgard Ave. and Campus Crescent)
PARKING
It’s free when coming out to one of our activities! The activity is closest to Parking Lot 10
CYCLING
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
Covered bike parking available on siteBUS
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 in the Visual Arts Buildings and Phoenix Building close to parking lot 10
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: severine@greenteamscanada.ca - Make Friends & Remove Invasive Plants at Esquimalt Gorge Park!Esquimalt Gorge Park & Pavilion, Victoria, BC
We're removing invasive plants such as Himalayan blackberry from Esquimalt Gorge Park (near the Gorge Park Pavillion)
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!)
REGISTRATION
First time coming out? Fill this out: http://bit.ly/2WdZeAT18 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. 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 severine@GreenTeamsCanada.caMEETING SPOT
Meet next to the Pavillion parking lot at Esquimalt Gorge ParkPARKING
There is a parking lot at the Pavillion (access via Tillicum Rd)!CYCLING
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
Covered bike parking available on siteBUS
Plan your bus route with BC Transit VictoriaCARPOOLING
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 public washrooms available at the Pavillion buildingWHAT 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 Township of Esquimalt. Their financial support and commitment to our shared goals enables us to promote environmental stewardship and community well-beingLAND 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: severine@greenteamscanada.ca - Make Friends & Remove Invasive Plants at UVic!Alumni Chip Trail, Capital, BC
We're removing invasive plants (such as English ivy) from the University of Victoria campus.
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!)
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. 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 severine@GreenTeamsCanada.ca
MEETING SPOT
Meet by the entrance to Alumni Chip Trail nearest Parking Lot 10 HERE: https://bit.ly/48OjeQg (parking lot in between Midgard Ave. and Campus Crescent)
PARKING
It’s free when coming out to one of our activities! The activity is closest to Parking Lot 10
CYCLING
Plan your bicycle route with CRD Bike Map
Covered bike parking available on siteBUS
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 in the Visual Arts Buildings and Phoenix Building close to parking lot 10
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: severine@greenteamscanada.ca - Remove Invasive Plants and Connect with Community in Murray's Pond Park, ColwoodMurray's Pond Park, Colwood, BC
We will be working together to removing invasive plants from Murray's Pond Park in Colwood park as part of Make A Difference Week!
It's 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
- 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 Severine@GreenTeamsCanada.ca
MEETING SPOT
Meet in the grassy field near Murrary's Pond Park just behind the student parking lot of Royal Bay Secondary.
PARKING
Parking is available at the student parking lot of Royal Bay Secondary School
CYCLING
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 drives, 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 prioritise your safety. Community members who carpool do so at their own risk.
Staff cannot offer rides.
WASHROOMS
There are washrooms available at the Meadows Green Park in Royal Bay (about 10 min walk)
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
This activity is being made possible thanks to financial support from Gablecraft Homes and direction from The City of Colwood, our community investment partners. Their commitment to our shared goals enables us to promote environmental stewardship and community well-being. Thank You for your support!
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: severine@greenteamscanada.ca