Calgary

Alberta Parks unveils backcountry wheelchair prototype

Alberta Parks is hoping its new prototype backcountry wheelchair will inspire others to further design and build chairs for more rugged use.

Model developed as part of program to get more people outdoors

Alberta Parks is hoping its new prototype backcountry wheelchair will inspire others to further design and build chairs for more rugged use.

The model is part of a program to get more people outdoors, no matter what their abilities. It is still in the development stages.

"Where we're trying to go now as the government is to try and be a catalyst for further development of this chair," said Don Carruthers Den Hoed, who speaks for Alberta Parks. "We're looking for partners, we're working with community groups and schools to take the development of the prototype to a point where we can build more and have them available to the public."

Carruthers Den Hoed hopes people will test the wheelchair and give feedback on how it can be improved.

The prototype will be on display at the Elbow Valley visitor centre.