The annual Parade of Ponds is back again this summer.
It's an opportunity to see different aspects of the community and enjoy the beauty of waterfalls and ponds is all part of the event, which will take place July 14 in Ladner and Tsawwassen, said Steve Kovacs of Waterscene.
"It will be a self-guided tour of 12 locations with around 18 water features.
It is also a fundraiser with 100 per cent of the money raised going to KinVillage and we are thankful that we can support the community in this way".
Kovacs explained that each individual scene has different features but all have the attraction of the tranquil sound of water.
"A definite benefit in today's fast-paced and often stressful society," he said. Some of the water features included in the tour have been around for a few years while others are relatively new but the variety of settings can give people an idea on how to bring nature to their property.
"The pond or waterfall is not only attractive to people but dragonflies and birds also enjoy them," said Kovacs.
For Neil Simpson and Pat Cahill, adding a pond and pond-less waterfall to both the back and front yards of the Tsawwassen home has provided an opportunity for Simpson to indulge his model railway hobby.
A track runs throughout the gardens and trains can often be observed running on those tracks.
"It keeps me out of mischief, at least some mischief," Simpson joked.
His passion for trains goes back to when his father worked for CPR and he rode the trains.
"I have always been interested in trains, I love their history and complexity and in addition, railways have a special place in Canadian history. They have made a huge difference in the settlement and development of this country," he said.
Simpson's interest also extends beyond Canada.
"I have special interest in British and European trains and in steam run trains," he said.
With his complex system of trains and the peaceful nature of the water scenes, Simpson and Cahill spend many summer days and evenings enjoying the outdoors, watching the birds and fish and listening to the water.
They also enjoy talking to the people who stop to look and ask questions.
"We are happy to be on the parade route," Simpson said. "This is an interesting community. It also supports a worthwhile cause".
Tickets for the Parade of Ponds are available at KinVillage, Harris and Sunnyside Nurseries and Waterscene Designs.
Tickets cost $15 per person and each participant will get a map of the selfguided tour.
All proceeds go to KinVillage.
