Having achieved its many of its initial goals, most notably construction of an Eco-Centre and the initiation of an Ecovillage, the Craik Sustainable Living Project (CSLP) has been able to turn its attention to Outreach and Education. This has taken the form of workshops, seminars, solar fairs, a resource library and more. Recently, the CSLP Health subcommittee has initiated eat local events and pedometer challenges. As part of this continued development, the website has been redone, with the new version at www.craikecovillage.com, and the former one at www.craikecovillage.ca until the changeover is complete.read more »

Although, as a teacher near the end of June, I am psychotically busy, I am looking forward to a full weekend as our community hosts its first annual Solar Fair. www.craikecovillage.ca

We are also kicking it off with the first "Craik Green Drinks" at 6pm June 22 at the Craik Eco-Centre.
http://www.biothinking.com/greendrinks/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Drinks

I expect that the last of our Craik Green Maps will disappear this weekend, except for a very few stashed away for the Ness Creek Festival later in July...
http://www.nesscreek.com/

And we will definitely be out before Field 07!read more »

Last night, at a monthly meeting of the Craik Sustainable Living project (CSLP), we had a guest speaker talk about "visitability". This was a new term to me, dealing with the concept of making not only businesses and public buildings, but private homes also, accessible to people with physical disabilities. This includes things such as accessible entryways (sufficiently wide doors for wheelchairs, ramps, and accessible bathrooms). I will learn more about this, and already am sure that this is something that needs to be on the next version of our Green Map.

Before the Craik Green Map was even completed, I knew that version 2 would be a necessity. Almost a year later, only a handful of maps remain, and there is a growing list of new "green" features to add to the next map.

From my new home in the area, I can see a young family breaking ground for an off-grid studio and home. The hemp processing mill is still slated to be constructed this fall. YouthBuild, an organization to help engage and train youth who have left the public system, has set up shop. An international school plans to develop facilities and programming in the area and begin classes this fall, focusing on entrepreneurial skills and sustainable living. In rural Saskatchewan, where a dozen schools are closing this year due to declining populations, this is a BIG DEAL. read more »

Issues relating to sustainability can be, well depressing. Fortunately, there are positive things happening (like Green Maps), and optimistically, it's not too late.

I recently moved to Craik, Saskatchewan, not because it is an environmental utopia, but because the local leadership is open to new ways of doing things. They have been very supportive in encouraging longtime residents and new residents to take action. Things are happening because people are making things happen.

What a fantastic place to live.