Sharing Our Nature to Protect It Better - Contact Nature
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Sharing Our Nature to Protect It Better

Much More Than Certifications: Commitments!

 

Accréditation Aventure Écotourisme Québec
carboneutre

Our Values: Guiding Our Actions

Contact Nature aims to apply the principles of sustainable development in all of its decisions and actions.

Contact Nature is committed to maintaining a high level of professionalism in all its operations. It aims to provide excellent service to its clients while ensuring the safety of its activities.

Contact Nature aims to create a sense of belonging within its community and among its staff. It is committed to being attentive to its community and to acting with transparency in all its decisions and actions.

Our featured activities

Discover the natural and cultural heritage of the fjord and its surroundings thanks to the experienced naturalist guides of Okwari Le Fjord.

Have a positive impact on the region by participating in environmental preservation efforts!

Better understand the boreal forest over the course of an afternoon: this is what we offer you with this activity which will awaken your senses throughout a territory that is both wild and fragile in contact with our experienced guides.

Your afternoon will begin with the observation of the black bear (“Okwari” in Mohawk). Take advantage of this silent moment to discover this animal in its natural state. The observation will take place from a viewpoint specially designed for this purpose and with the greatest respect for the animals. The journey to the viewpoint is done by electric vehicle when the number of participants allows, in order to avoid GHG emissions.

 

Ours noir - Okwari

This half-day option begins with the hike along the splendid Rivière-à-Mars canyon. Your guide will then accompany you to Lake Como, where you will have the opportunity to ride rabaska, a large traditional canoe, on the lake. Your adventure will end with the observation of wild black bears. You will be able to observe and photograph them from the top of our secure watchtowers. Lunch option available.

1 p.m: Arrival of clients, welcome by the guide, dressing of clients if necessary.

(Mosquito jackets, boots, wool socks and raincoats available)

1:15 p.m: Departure by bus to the Rivière-à-Mars canyon

1:45 p.m: Departure for the viewpoints (Interpretation of the Black Bear along the way)

2:10 p.m: Observation of the black bear

2:45 p.m: Travel to Lake Como

3 p.m: Rabaska canoe trip on Lake Como. Interpretation of moose and beaver.

4 p.m: Departure for Bec-Scie

4:30 p.m: End of activity.

* Subject to change without notice

Other activities: Explore Beyond the Beaten Path

The brand new outdoor escape game!

Go on a self-guided hike with a backpack with unlockable pockets and a notebook full of mysteries to solve by hand!

Like a fun and educational escape game, participants take a discovery journey in nature in search of clues and answers allowing them to solve the puzzles and access the objects hidden in their backpack.

Will you solve the Kingdom’s intrigue? 2 options offered: 3 km course or 5 km course

Topics covered:

Through the hike, participants will learn, among other things, about

  • the culture of the first peoples,
    the geological formation of the Rivière-à-Mars canyon
    fauna and flora of the boreal forest.

Unusual accommodation for your clients?

Our 3 all-season yurts are located on an exceptional campsite just a stone’s throw from our hiking trails.

You will love Camping Bec-Scie for:

  • Its close proximity to the departures of the Bec-Scie Outdoor Center (hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.)
  • Its wild and natural side
  • Its tranquility

Each yurt includes:

  • A double bed
  • A single bunk bed
  • A futon
  • Butane stove
  • Complete bedding
  • 4 chairs
  • Basic tableware
  • A BBQ (summer only) and its utensils
  • Heating and air conditioning

Guided introduction to fly fishing in salmon rivers

4-hour activity allowing you to take an overview of all the facets of this fishing. The guide advises you and follows you throughout the theoretical and practical activity.

Included :

  • Visit to the Atlantic salmon and sea trout interpretation site;
  • Theory of casting, fishing and knots;
  • Fly fishing in rivers;
  • Basic license, right of access, fishing rod, boots and 3 flies are provided.

Participants must dress in a dark color depending on the expected temperature, including a hat or cap and glasses. As the activity runs from 8:00 a.m. to noon, it is best to arrive 5-10 minutes early.

Ideally in groups of 2 people

The magnificent Rivière-à-Mars canyon

The Bec-Scie Outdoor Center offers a striking landscape all year round. Explore the trails along the magnificent Rivière-à-Mars canyon and walk on the footbridges that overlook this fiery watercourse. Throughout the journey, discover the natural phenomena that have shaped this landscape thanks to the interpretation panels.

The canyon route is accessible to the whole family while the Pond and River trails are aimed at intermediate hikers.

Canyon de la Rivière-à-Mars

Visit us in winter!

In Pictures

Monique Tremblay - Okwari guide
Monique Tremblay - Okwari guide

Sustainable, Responsible and Regenerative Tourism

Madame Tremblay détient une maîtrise en écologie végétale et un baccalauréat en science biologique. Elle a une grande capacité de vulgarisation. Ses connaissances artistiques, historiques et du milieu naturel contribueront grandement à vous faire vivre une expérience authentique. 

En randonnée, sur le bord d’un lac au milieu du territoire ou à bord d’un canot Rabaska (grand canot traditionnel), Monique vous invitera à participer à une expérience d’interprétation de la faune et de la flore boréale et selon les saisons. Partageant un moment unique en sa compagnie, vous pourrez en apprendre plus sur les premiers peuples grâce à son expertise et aux écrits d’Érik Langevin, professeur au département des sciences humaines et sociales et responsable du laboratoire d’archéologie (UQAC). 

Après avoir travaillé durant plus de 30 ans au site de la Nouvelle France où elle a développé une grande expertise au niveau historique, nous sommes fiers de pouvoir aujourd’hui compter Monique parmi nos guides d’expertises au sein d’Okwari le Fjord.

Our Guides

Ms. Tremblay has a master’s degree in plant ecology and a bachelor’s degree in biological science. She has a great ability to popularize. Her artistic, historical and natural environment knowledge will greatly contribute to making you live an authentic experience.

While hiking, on the edge of a lake in the middle of the territory or aboard a Rabaska canoe (large traditional canoe), Monique will invite you to take part in a wildlife interpretation experience and boreal flora and according to the seasons. Sharing a unique moment in his company, you will be able to learn more about the first peoples thanks to his expertise and the writings of Érik Langevin, professor in the department of human and social sciences and head of the archeology laboratory (UQAC).

After having worked for more than 30 years at the site of New France where she developed a great expertise at the historical level, we are proud to count Monique today among our expert guides within Okwari le Fjord.

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Monique Tremblay - Guide Okwari

Jean-Victor Fournelle is passionate about nature and adventure, with a wealth of experience in biology and interpretation of the natural environment. Having pursued studies in biological sciences and ecology, he perfected his skills over the years as a naturalist park ranger at the Saguenay Fjord National Park. Its responsibilities include leading discovery activities, raising visitor awareness and protecting the environment.

During your explorations with Jean-Victor, whether in the heart of the trails or at the water’s edge, he invites you to an immersive experience of discovery of the boreal fauna and flora. Thanks to his in-depth knowledge and his educational approach, he enthusiastically shares the richness of local ecosystems and environmental issues.

In addition to his expertise in the natural environment, Jean-Victor is also a professional musician, which adds a unique cultural dimension to his guiding activities. With more than ten years of experience as a naturalist, he knows how to adapt his interventions to different audiences to offer an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of nature.

Benjamin D’Hondt is a passionate and versatile guide, boasting five years of experience in wildlife care and observation. Formerly an animal caregiver at the Zoo of Maubeuge in France and an animator at Pairi Daiza in Belgium, he is currently pursuing training in wildlife protection and management to deepen his knowledge of nature and the Quebec territory.

In the forest, Benjamin shares his knowledge with clarity and infectious enthusiasm, offering unique moments of interpretation and observation of the local wildlife. His passion and curiosity for the animal world add a distinctive dimension to each outing, and he is eager to simplify his insights, enabling everyone to connect with the surrounding nature.

Dynamic and creative, Benjamin also stands out for his organizational skills and attention to detail, which he applies to the welcoming and animation activities. We are proud to have his expertise and dedication within our team of naturalist guides to provide memorable experiences in the great outdoors.

Management Team

Marc-André Galbrand
CEO

Marc-André Galbrand has been the pillar of the organization for more than seven years now as general director. Marc-André is the main actor in the beneficial change of direction of the organization in recent years. Having completed a master’s degree in public administration at the National School of Public Administration (the only French-speaking university specializing in public administration in North America) and being part of the order of chartered administrators, Mr. Galbrand has developed great expertise in matters of management. He is recognized as a manager specializing in the public administration of natural environments.

What sets it apart is the sustainable management of outdoor facilities to facilitate an active lifestyle, access to natural spaces and outdoor activities while creating a sense of belonging to the community. In addition, this director continually seeks to implement best practices for respecting and protecting the environment.

magalbrand@contact-nature.ca

1 418 697-5458 ext 221

Stéphanie Côté
Deputy Director of Marketing and Customer Experience

Stéphanie Côté occupies a key role within Contact Nature as Deputy Director of Marketing Communications & Customer Experience. With more than twenty years of experience in various fields, Stéphanie has distinguished herself through her skills in management, sales and marketing. Holder of a D.E.C. in Fashion Marketing (Lasalle College), she was able to combine her training with practical expertise, particularly within the radio and events industry.

What sets Stéphanie apart is her ability to orchestrate effective communication strategies and promote the organization’s brand image while providing an enriched customer experience. Following a successful replacement mandate at Contact Nature, she was naturally given increased responsibilities, thereby strengthening the impact of the organization. His keen sense of customer relations and his strategic vision contribute to the continued evolution of Contact Nature.

Stéphanie is also your contact person with us! She takes pleasure in getting to know new clients while maintaining strong business relationships with our current visitors. Contact her, she will be able to offer you an option perfectly suited to the needs of your customers.

stephanie.cote@contact-nature.ca

1 418 697-5458 ext 224

 

Marilou Tremblay
Director of Communications and Marketing

Marilou Tremblay has played a central role at Contact Nature since 2018 as director of marketing communications. She is responsible for digital platforms, branding, as well as promotional strategies, thus contributing to the growth of the organization’s notoriety. Holder of a technique in advertising advice and coordination from Cégep de Jonquière and a bachelor’s degree in applied communication, marketing option, from the University of Sherbrooke, Marilou was able to combine her love for advertising with her marketing skills. It was during her university internships at Contact Nature that she found her professional path, a position that fulfilled her aspirations and allowed her to return to her native region.

Always looking for improvement, Marilou regularly follows training to stay at the forefront of constantly evolving marketing trends. What sets her apart is her natural instinct to put herself in the place of the different clienteles with whom she interacts. This ability, combined with her enthusiasm for the diversity of tasks, makes her an important asset for the success of the organization.

marilou.tremblay@contact-nature.ca    

1 418 697-5458 ext 226 

Roxanne Fortin
Director of Operations

Roxanne Fortin is a pillar within Contact Nature, where she currently holds the position of Director of Operations. Since 2014, Roxanne has moved up the ranks within the organization, taking on increasingly strategic roles. Holder of a D.E.C. in administration, accounting and management from Cégep de Chicoutimi, she was able to use her expertise to ensure effective management of operations and work teams.

What sets Roxanne apart is her ability to plan, organize and direct the activities of Contact Nature’s campsites and ice fishing villages, while ensuring the proper management of the equipment. His commitment to the day-to-day management of these facilities demonstrates his expertise and attention to detail. In addition to her main role, she actively participates in committees such as ice fishing and sustainable development.

Thanks to her dynamic and communicative approach, Roxanne stands out for her dedication to providing exemplary customer service and maintaining high quality standards within the organization.

roxanne.fortin@contact-nature.ca

1 418 697-5458 ext 225

Contact Us!

It is with pleasure that we will offer you an option adapted to your customers. Let us know what you’re looking for!