Nature walk at Strathcona Island Park will delve into the somewhat ‘rare’ sight of a prairie forest

By Medicine Hat News on May 9, 2025.

The Medicine Hat Interpretive Program is inviting residents out for a look at the wonder of the relatively rare sight of our local forests.

“Trees on the prairie are such an unusual sight, and yet we have them all along the river. It is quite a curious thing,” says Mhairi Donnelly, assistant chief interpreter.

The free nature walk will take attendees through the cottonwoods in Strathcona Island, where they will learn about the unusual life cycle of this plant, how the forest has developed along the river corridor and why these forests are so important for life, especially the wildlife.

While this program is free and does not require registration, those interested are asked to show up at the Strathcona Island Park car park beside the children’s play area on May 17 at 2 p.m., and to bring water, sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.

“Feel free to bring your camera or binoculars with you, as you never know what you may see on the walk,” said Donnelly.

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