Extend learning beyond books for hands-on exploration with our Nature Discovery Backpacks. Gain access to tools and resources which allow you and your families to engage with our community’s natural habitats, forests, and grasslands. 
Fourteen “year round” backpacks and five “winter” backpacks are available to borrow, free of charge.
Check out all of the Nature Discovery Backpacks
Borrowing Guidelines
- Packs can be loaned for two weeks, with no renewals.
- $1.00 late fee per day per pack.
- Two day hold.
- Pack must be returned to the circulation desk during regular opening hours as they will not fit in our return chute.
- Adult supervision is required. Patrons must be 13+ years to check out the pack.
- We check the contents list upon each return, but we also ask that you do the same prior to returning. Please return items in good, complete condition for use by the next individual.
How to use
- Each pack is targeted for a specific activity or activities which can be found on the label.
- Packs are geared towards individuals, families and/or children.
- Leave no trace cards – guidelines to help you learn how to minimize your impact on the environment while enjoying our natural resources.
- Start by reading through the navy blue file folder, which includes info on how to use the pack, instructions for tools and tips and tricks for exploring.
- Record your findings in the Nature Journal provided or create your own!
Backpack Types
- Hiking – trekking poles, maps, guides, and binoculars
- Bug Discovery – nets, identification guides
- Bats – use an echometer to “listen” for bats
- All about Birds – binoculars, identification guides
- Fishing – rods and lures, just add an angler’s license
- Water Ecology – dip net and magnifying jar
- Geology and Fossils – 100+ rocks, minerals and fossils
- Wildcrafting – flower press and tools
Guides and Information
- AdventureSmart: Leave a Trip Plan. AdventureSmart is a national program dedicated to encouraging Canadians and visitors to Canada to ”Get informed and go outdoors”
- AllTrails: Explore with confidence and pick the right trail or route for your day with trail guides and maps that include a difficulty rating with the AllTrails app.
- Carman Community Pathway: a community foot and bike path that winds it’s way throughout Carman and along the beautiful Boyne River
- iNaturalist: a non-profit social network of naturalists, citizen scientists, and biologists built on the concept of mapping and sharing observations of biodiversity across the globe.
- Leave No Trace Canada: a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting outdoor ethics and the seven Leave No Trace principles
- Manitoba Parks: experience the rich cultural heritage and enjoy the spectacular beauty of our provincial parks
Funded by the Manitoba Government. 2023.