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ABOUT US
Strengthening Communities Through Outdoor Recreational Development
Cobequid (also known as Cobequid Trail Consulting or just Cobequid Consulting) is a family run business specializing in the creation of uniquely captivating outdoor playscapes for children of all ages. While we are distributors of top quality, international playground equipment, our passion for nature and our belief that children benefit from experiencing a mixture of structured and unstructured play has led us to focus on creating playgrounds that are either made almost entirely of natural products or a hybrid of natural and traditional playground equipment.
Inspired by you, our playgrounds are constructed from locally sourced cedar, hemlock and pine logs that are hand peeled and smoothed before being used. The result is spaces that encourage motion, problem solving and imaginative play.
Based in Nova Scotia, we are one of Atlantic Canada’s most experienced outdoor recreation companies. We have over 20 years of experience in environmentally sustainable trails, the design and construction of natural, traditional and hybrid playgrounds, and bringing these various recreation elements together to serve our clients. You’ll find examples of our work in schools, early childhood learning centres and parks all over Atlantic Canada.
Planning, facilitating and community development have become integral aspects to our business. Cobequid approaches every project with the community development model in mind; facilitating and inspiring discussion surrounding goals and outcomes. We are dedicated to each project regardless of the size or budget.
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Cobequid is committed to a strong safety program that protects its staff, its property and the public from incident. Employees at every level, including management, are responsible and accountable for the company’s overall safety initiatives. Our crew are chainsaw safety certified, WHMIS, First Aid and Confined Space certified.
Garnet McLaughlin
Owner
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Garnet has been working in the field of recreation trail planning and development since 1999. Over the years, Cobequid has evolved to meet the needs of communities that require quality outdoor recreation spaces and experiences.
“Expanding into play spaces, both natural and traditional, has been a natural progression for the company. The sky is now the limit for the combination of elements Cobequid can provide on any given project.” -Garnet McLaughlin
Over the years, Garnet’s approach has been refined to include the principles of sustainability, exceeding expectations and engaging the community.
After more than two decades, it is the social impacts of these recreational spaces and the sheer joy that the children experience that keep Garnet showing up with enthusiasm for every project he’s involved in.
Outdoor recreation is not simply a job for Garnet; it's in his blood. He has been involved with every trail system within Wilderness Areas in Nova Scotia in various capacities. He is known for his dedication to his projects and has been recognized in the NS Legislature for his volunteer commitment.
Garnet currently sits as Chair for Hike NS as well as Trail Society Director for Cobequid Eco-Trails Society