Okie, I made an essay.
Essay writing is important for persuasive writing, and formal citation.
I made it for a project.
We are doing a project in PLP about the crazy ones. It is inspired by the crazy ones apple campaign, and we are learning about people who changed the world. We will be doing a Pechakucha at the end of march, so you can look forward to that in the end of march
Our essay topics are about locals who have changed our home greatly. I chose a legend of Squamish; none other than Anders Ourom.
Imma be real, I didn’t know this fella until I started researching for this essay, but he is the most impactful person to the lower mainland. I wanted to research an early developer or pioneer of climbing in Squamish, and had eyes on Tim Doyle. I chose Anders because he had so much impact to everyone not just climbers. I want to talk more about him, but I’d rather let the essay do the talking.
Anders Ourom
the pioneer the west coast of today
Anders Ourom is a pivotal figure in Squamish climbing, leaving a lasting mark on the climbing and hiking scenes through his individual actions; his personal dedication, portfolio of trailblazing routes, and commitment to environmental stewardship not only elevated these communities but also positioned him as a genuine role model, inspiring others through a direct and impactful approach to passion, leadership, and preservation.
Squamish is the epicentre of climbing in Canada and one of the biggest climbing meccas on the continent, but that wasn’t always the case. In 1972 Anders did his first ascent of the Chief, climbing Ridin’ with Biden, and didn’t stop there. Over the years he kept climbing and being a leader in climbing, such as in the Varsity Outdoor Club of UBC, where he was a mentor to many rock climbers (Pique News Magazine).
He created what rock climbing is to the lower mainland today. A source of tourism and economic boost, as well as an important part in our culture. ‘21% of Squamish’s overnight visitors are rock climbers’ says the city of Squamish. (City of squmish, 2020) Climbers value the land, and because it holds importance to them, they are conservational activists. Places like Squamish are home to thousands of routes and boulders, which can be there for hundreds of generations to come if we take care of them.
Vancouver is known for the wilderness and its access to the calm forest. Anders Ourom is the reason behind the value. “Climbing was not the only field where Ourom has made contributions. He said he came up with the idea to rebuild the Yew Lake trail around Cypress Bowl in the early 1990s, helping make it accessible enough for a motorized wheelchair to trek through.” (Pique News Magazine).
“Lake, Hollyburn” September 1988 (David & Mary Macaree Collection)
He worked his whole life making the lower mainland a place to be enjoyed for everyone, including generations to come. Ourom’s Climbers Access Society has made guidelines for climbers on how to preserve the rock and land, as well as founding the BC Mountaineering Club which goes on expeditions into the mountains. It is safe to say that the lower mainland is a cleaner, and more sustainable place, thanks to Anders Ourom.
Anders is part of the reason why the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park and Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park exist today. Anders was a founding member of MEC, and the varsity outdoor club in UBC and is also a founder and long-time president of the Climbers’ Access Society of BC. He was a leader and pioneer in outdoor recreation, and he did this all while being a King’s Counsel-appointed lawyer. (Government of Canada) When he worked for MEC, he started as a volunteer, eventually becoming director and chair. (Pique News Magazine) Because of all of his work, he was awarded the BC Achievement Foundation Community Award in 2022 (BC foundation community award).
Anders Ourom’s enduring impact on Squamish extends beyond climbing, embodying dedication to environmental stewardship. His commitment to preserving natural beauty has not only shaped Squamish’s outdoor culture but also left an indelible mark on the region’s environmental sustainability. Ourom’s efforts in trail development and advocacy in Vancouver have transformed the Lower Mainland into a cleaner, more sustainable area, showcasing his commitment to making wilderness enjoyable for everyone. Recognized through prestigious awards, Ourom’s remarkable achievements solidify his status as a key figure in environmental conservation, inspiring and protecting natural wonders for future generations.
If you wanted the original essay, check it here
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