Oldman River Valley wildlife subject of local documentary
A wildlife documentary premiering tonight at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre aims to show the value of the natural habitat and fauna of the river valley that winds through the heart of Lethbridge.
“Wildlife of the Oldman River Valley” is a full-length film by local nature photographer Rick Andrews who has been producing video work for the project over the past couple of years.
The film follows the seasons of the year while focusing on the menagerie of wild animals that inhabit the river valley from Cottonwood Park in the south to Pavan Park in the north and the wild spaces between.
And while some may take elements of the city’s river valley for granted, Andrews hopes viewers of his film will see something new as well.
“There will be some sights that people will recognize in the river valley and perhaps some things that they won’t. And I’m hoping that’s the case even for people that spend a lot of time down here,” said Andrews.
That was occasionally the situation for the filmmaker himself as he worked in the field, an example of which resulted in underwater footage for the film of wandering garter snakes preying on fish.
Andrews says that in both his still photography and video work he is trying to create a connection between the viewer and the natural world.
“Hopefully people will see some value in what we have here in the river valley and hopefully continue to protect that into the future because it’s pretty unique, it really is.”
While the river valley contains some necessary infrastructure, as well as various recreational facilities, the film asks viewers to consider a balance with the value of nature.
“We’ve got this great valley area but how much are we leaving for the wildlife?” asked Andrews.
"If we want this to continue we really have to be prepared to share that a little better.”
“Wildlife of the Oldman River Valley” is 43 minutes long and its premiere screening is being hosted by the Friends of Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society and the Lethbridge Naturalists Society beginning tonight at 7 at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre.
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