Community Revitalization in Field: New Facilities Enhance Life

Field, a small community nestled within the breathtaking Yoho National Park, is witnessing a revitalization of its social and recreational life. The all-volunteer Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA), led by Chair Katrina Froese, plays a vital role in fostering connection among the area’s approximately 150 year-round residents. Despite challenges posed by its location, the community continues to thrive through dedicated volunteer efforts and partnerships.

The unique aspect of Field’s situation lies in its management by Parks Canada. This federal oversight brings a layer of complexity to community projects, as every initiative must navigate significant regulatory hurdles. “Every project means layers of red tape,” Froese explained. “Even building a simple playground can take years of coordination.”

With support from the Columbia Basin Trust, the community gym has undergone significant improvements, introducing new equipment such as a treadmill, weights, and a rowing machine. This enhancement has provided residents with more opportunities to stay active while remaining local.

Founded in 1985, the FRAA operates a community centre, a seasonal rink, and a gymnasium in a former elementary school that now serves as a Parks Canada administrative building. These facilities are central to community life, hosting events, offering a children’s playroom, and facilitating weekly gatherings. Volunteers also maintain a multi-use court, which transforms into a skating rink in winter, hosting impromptu hockey games and a popular tournament every January.

Despite the allure of world-class outdoor activities, many residents expressed a desire for increased indoor options, especially during the long winters. “We have a mix of retired people and young families,” Froese noted. “Some don’t drive, and winter roads can be tough. Seasonal workers often struggle to access Golden. If you don’t ski or drive, what can you do for your well-being? We knew we needed to expand our gym.”

The partnership with the Columbia Basin Trust has fostered further enhancements at the Field Community Centre. The Kids Room has seen the introduction of new educational and sensory-friendly toys, greatly improving its inclusivity.

Previously, the community gym offered little more than a few weights and a ping-pong table. Thanks to the Trust’s support, it has transformed into a vibrant fitness hub. The introduction of new machines has increased membership significantly, from around 10 to 30 to 40 year-round members, with numbers soaring to 60 during the summer months when seasonal staff are present. “This adds so much back into our community,” Froese remarked.

The funding from the Trust has also enabled the purchase of a snowblade to maintain the community rink, ensuring it remains available for winter activities. “Each improvement means a lot,” Froese stated. “Living here can be challenging with so few services, so creating shared spaces for health and connection is invaluable.”

Behind the Field Community Centre, the popular community rink serves as a hub for local activities. The new snowblade will help keep the rink clear for weekend games and annual tournaments, further solidifying its status as a community gathering point.

The partnership between the FRAA and the Columbia Basin Trust began when a Trust staff member visited during Field’s annual “Yoho Blow” event. “She saw that we were underserved and wanted to support what we were already working on,” Froese explained. This collaboration has proven crucial for Field, with the Trust’s five Community Liaisons working directly with residents to understand their challenges and support well-being projects.

With recent projects nearing completion, FRAA has set its sights on a new initiative: renovating the historic St. Joseph Church into a versatile community space for arts, culture, and gatherings. This project aims to provide another avenue for generating revenue while enhancing community cohesion.

For Froese, the significance of these communal spaces extends beyond mere facilities. “Spaces like our centre, rink, and gym mean everything to Field,” she concluded. “We rely on ourselves to get things done. The Trust has been tremendous in understanding our needs and supporting our efforts.”

As Field continues to cultivate its community spirit, the dedication of its residents and the support from organizations like the Columbia Basin Trust ensure that this picturesque location remains a vibrant and welcoming place to live.