| Since
1995, the Silva Forest Foundation has been constructing a school
complex on privately held land deep in the forests of the West Kootenay
region near Salmo, in southeastern British Columbia. Most of the
labour has been volunteer and many of the building materials were
donated. Much heart and soul have gone into the creation of the
school.
The main building is a 20 x 50 foot, post and
beam classroom and kitchen complex where the indoor activities
take place. Students have a beautiful view of the forest from
the many windows in the building. Front and back porches provide
space for breakout sessions and small group conversations. Field
activities take place on the surrounding 1600 acres.
The
school complex also includes three cabins of 16 x 16 feet that
can sleep 6-7 in bunk beds. A bath house contains three showers
and three wash basins with hot and cold running water. Students
find themselves in a rustic but comfortable setting, far from
the distractions of the modern world.
|
