A place of restoration, inspiration, and preparation
The A Rocha BC Centre (previously the “Brooksdale Environmental Centre”) is a place of transformation. The flagship project of A Rocha Canada, it is one of the most dynamic Christian environmental centres in North America. This 27-acre property is a living lab comprised of forests, a threatened river system, organic gardens, and heritage houses. The unique combination of sensitive wildlife habitat and agricultural land makes the A Rocha BC Centre more than a showpiece, but a place where critical environmental issues are researched, addressed, and solved. In addition to running a guest house for overnight retreats, we welcome Tatalu Conservation Residents and volunteers to join in our work.
The A Rocha BC Centre is grateful to work within the TATALU (Little Campbell River) Watershed on the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish people: including Semiahmoo, Kwantlen, Stó:lō and W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations.
The Barn Restoration Project
At A Rocha Canada, we envision a world where communities flourish alongside nature. For over 20 years, our BC Environmental Centre in Surrey, BC, has inspired thousands to care deeply about the earth and others through practical immersion experiences in nature for people of all ages. Whether its growing food, studying threatened species, planting trees or attending a retreat or workshop; when people are equipped to steward the earth and work together both people and places are transformed.
Transforming People and Places
The latest news on our projects
An Interview with Bob Cowin
What drew you to A Rocha? Curiosity. My daughter had given me a copy of the book about A Rocha Canada, Planted, and I was intrigued by the holistic picture of Christian living that it [...]
Erin Smith: Beholder of Beauty
by Erin Smith (far right in photo) Three themes emerged during my summer agriculture internship. Beauty, Silliness and Humility. Arriving at A Rocha somewhat weary from a prolonged attempt at making life make sense, I [...]
Emily Quinn Smyth: Community Builder
by Emily Quinn Smyth I came to A Rocha after studying for a Master of Science. I was stressed and just didn’t feel my heart in it. My arrival at A Rocha set me on [...]







