What the parks and rec expert wants for the holidays

Tourism researcher Elizabeth Halpenny wants a gift of nature that will keep on giving next year.

Who

Elizabeth Halpenny, tourism, recreation and parks researcher

What she wants

A family pass to Canada's national parks, "or a fully paid campsite at one of Alberta Parks' amazing campgrounds"

Why she wants it

"Free access to parks connects us with Canada's awesome nature. Nature helps us recharge our mind and spirit. Park settings can promote physical activity and opportunities to bond with loved ones. Parks offer us the chance to change our pace of life and reconnect with ourselves and the planet-something that is sorely missing from modern day's frantic pace.

"Visiting parks can also foster the development of the next generation of environmental stewards. Children who have opportunities to connect with nature when they're young-especially in the company of a parent, teacher or guardian-are more likely to grow up to be advocates for the environment in the future. Something our planet needs."

PREVIOUS: What the expert on everything wants for the holidays