A sandbox that's very different than those typically found in a public park is getting a funding boost.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) was given a $2,000 donation from Union Gas on Tuesday. The money will go towards a virtual reality sandbox that will be used at local events in nearby areas.
The high-tech sandbox is used to teach children about geography, geology and hydrology.
"People can use their hands to shape the sand into different landscapes, which are then reflected in real time with a coloured map depicting elevations, contour lines and imaginary lakes, rivers, ponds and wetlands," as stated in a media release sent from the LTVCA. "The VR Sandbox consists of a raised sandbox table, camera, computer and projector; a unique software the program does the rest."
Local residents were first able to get their hands on the virtual reality sandbox at the 2018 International Plowing Match in Pain Court.
"Union Gas has been an ongoing supporter of the LTVCA, as well as the St. Clair Regional Conservation Authority and Essex Region Conservation Authority, investing in the education of our youth,” said Sean Collier, district manager in Windsor Essex. “We support important educational programs in the communities we serve, helping our children learn about the importance of conservation and protection of our water.”
Other financial supporters for the virtual reality sandbox include The Friends of the St. Clair River, Chatham-Kent and Lambton Children’s Water Festival, and the three Conservation Authorities - St. Clair Region, Essex Region and Lower Thames Valley.
