The Nechako Valley Sporting Association has taken a significant step in supporting local recreation and community wellness by completing a dedicated workshop project for the Nechako Nordics cross-country ski club in Vanderhoof, B.C. This initiative was supported through a $9,979 grant from Northern Development’s Recreation Infrastructure program.
The project involved acquiring and customizing a 40-foot c-can to establish a workshop tailored to the club’s needs. The facility now provides a secure space for snowmobile storage during the summer months, a dedicated area for equipment repair, and efficient storage for tools and parts. Key components of the project included the purchase and transportation of the c-can, site preparation, and the construction of a foundation and access ramp. Additional upgrades included electrical wiring for lighting, plugins, and heating, the installation of an electrical heating unit, and the creation of work benches and shelving. To ensure durability and an aesthetically pleasing finish, the c-can was also painted.
This workshop addresses the growing demands of the Nechako Nordics, a volunteer-driven club that has experienced a surge in membership and participation. This growth is largely due to the success of cross-country ski programs in local schools and the club’s rental shop, which have encouraged community engagement in the sport. Following the construction of a grooming shed in 2022, the new workshop enhances the club’s capacity to maintain grooming equipment, ensuring consistently excellent skiing conditions for members and visitors alike.
“This project is a game-changer for the Nechako Nordics,” said Richard Burkholder, chair of the Nechako Valley Sporting Association. “The new workshop allows us to efficiently maintain our equipment and meet the growing expectations of our members. We’re grateful to Northern Development for their support and to the volunteers who made this vision a reality.”
The Nechako Valley Sporting Association believes that investing in recreation infrastructure not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also contributes to the sustainability and economic stability of the community. With the completion of this workshop in September 2024, the Nechako Nordics are better equipped than ever to support their members and the local community.
