Who should take this course?

People in the Canmore/Banff/Lake Louise area seeking professional level accreditation from the Mountain Park Heritage Interpretation Association, or those who want to improve their skills and knowledge as interpreters of Banff National Park’s heritage. If you want one-stop shopping, this course brings all the resources to you in one info-packed week.

What will be covered?

Day 1:

9 am – 9:30 am Introductions and format
9:30 am – 5 pm Principles of Interpretation
Discussion, demo and practice on planning and principles of interpretation with a group of interpreters experienced in all aspects of the craft.

Day 2:

9 am – noon Human history and Heritage Tourism
An overview of the key elements and personalities of the human history of the Bow Valley.

1 pm – 5 pm Human history on site
Tours of several heritage sites in the Banff area with expert guides to emphasize the key stories connected with each.

Day 3:

9 am – noon Geology and Geography
An overview of mountain building and erosion processes, structures, rock types, and interesting sites in Banff NP to observe these.

1 pm – 5 pm Flora and Fauna
An overview of life zones, and basic information on common plants and wildlife, including suggestions of areas of the park or types of habitat where these are most frequently seen.

Day 4:

9 am – 5 pm Parks Canada update
The latest information on ecosystem management, aquatics, fire management, habitat effectiveness from Parks Canada Warden Service staff actively engaged in these areas. Substantial opportunities for discussion of issues raised by participants.

Day 5:

9 am – 5 pm Bus tour demo
A full day tour of the Banff/Lake Louise area, with numerous stops at points of interest. Four expert interpreters on board to engage with small groups of participants at each site, in order to cover key story elements.

When?, Where?, How Much? How Do I Register? Go to http://www.mphia.org