Code of Conduct

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Effective Date: 1 October 2024

Spore & Lore Inc. ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and environmentally responsible experience for all participants in our guided excursions, workshops, and related activities. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behaviour during participation in our services. 

By purchasing tickets or participating in any Spore & Lore Inc. activities, you agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.

1. Respectful Behaviour

All participants are expected to treat each other, the guide, and any staff or affiliates with respect and courtesy at all times. The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

• Verbal abuse, threats, harassment, or discrimination of any kind
• Disruptive behaviour, including excessive interruptions, loud or inappropriate conduct
• Physical aggression or violence of any form
• Discriminatory behaviour, including mockery or belittlement of belief systems, cultures, or identities
• Disrespectful or disruptive behaviour toward fellow participants or the guide
• Playing music or media aloud during Excursions or Workshops
• Holding telephone/facetime calls via speakerphone

Failure to adhere to these behavioural expectations may result in immediate dismissal from the activity without refund.

2. Group Etiquette

Participants are expected to arrive on time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

Check-in lasts approximately 10 – 15 minutes at the start of each Excursion, providing a brief buffer for latecomers. Out of respect for the group, excursions will begin promptly at the designated start time, and the group cannot be delayed beyond this window.

Participants who arrive after the departure time may not be permitted to join the excursion, and no refunds or credits will be issued.

To ensure the best possible experience for all participants, the following etiquette standards must be observed:

• Cellphones must be silenced or set to vibrate throughout
• Phone calls must be taken away from the group if necessary and should be limited to emergencies
• Maintain respectful distances from others whenever possible to ensure personal comfort and ease of movement
• Avoid overpowering scents (e.g., perfumes, colognes, etc.) as some participants may have sensitivities, and certain cents may attract pests to the group
• Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain and wear sturdy, suitable footwear
• Questions and engagement are encouraged, but participants must not interrupt excessively or dominate conversations at the expense of others
• Excessive talking during instruction is discouraged so that all participants can hear and focus

3. Environmental Stewardship

Spore & Lore Inc. emphasizes respect for nature and sustainable foraging practices. All participants must adhere to the following:

• No littering. All waste must be packed out or disposed of in designated receptacles.
• No vandalism, including carving into, painting or drawing on trees, rocks, etc., or otherwise defacing natural features.
• No intentional destruction of flora, fauna or ecosystems (e.g., felling trees, disturbing nests, or excessive harvesting beyond sustainable limits, etc.)
• No unauthorized collection of foraged materials where prohibited by the guide or excursion rules.
• Follow all posted regulations and signage at the excursion location.

Failure to follow environmental protection policies may result in immediate removal from the excursion without refund and potential reporting to relevant authorities.

4. Wildlife & Animal Interactions

Participants are expected to engage with nature responsibly. The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

• Intentionally disturbing or harming wildlife
• Feeding wild animals
• Collecting or taking home live animals or animal remains
• Taunting or throwing objects at animals or otherwise engaging in actions that may cause harm
• Luring wild animals
• Attempting to approach wild animals to take close-range photos (i.e., "selfies")

Participants found engaging in prohibited behaviours such as these will be immediately dismissed without refund and reported to the appropriate authorities. 

5. Safety & Compliance with Guide Instructions

For the safety of all participants and the protection of the environment, all participants must familiarize themselves with and comply with Spore & Lore Inc.’s Safety Program, and all instructions given by the guide. This includes but is not limited to:

• Following designated trails and paths
• Adhering to group safety protocols, including staying within sight and sound of the group
• Respecting restrictions on harvesting, handling or consuming certain plants or fungi
•  Immediately ceasing any activity deemed unsafe or inappropriate by the guide
• Using proper safety equipment as required for Excursion type
• Arrive wearing proper attire and footwear 

Refusal to comply with the guide’s instructions may result in dismissal from the activity without refund. Participants who arrive without proper attire, especially footwear, may be denied participation without a refund if safety is compromised.

6. Prohibited Substances & Impairment

To maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, the following rules apply:

• Alcohol and cannabis consumption is strictly prohibited before or during any Spore & Lore Inc. Excursion or Workshop
• Participants who are impaired by alcohol, cannabis or any other substance will be refused participation and dismissed without refund
• Smoking and vaping of any substances (tobacco or non-tobacco) is strictly prohibited during excursions, at gathering areas, workshops and public parking areas.

7. Unauthorized Content Creation & Media Use

While participants are welcome to take personal photos, the following media-related activities are strictly prohibited during Spore & Lore Inc.’s Excursions and Workshops:

• Filming or recording for commercial use without explicit written permission
• Creating disruptive content such as video blogs or reels during activities
• Using drones or other aerial recording devices without prior approval
• Use of gimbals, tripods or selfie sticks, etc.

Spore & Lore Inc. reserves the right to remove participants violating this Code of Conduct without refund.

8. Solicitation and Commercial Activities

Participants may not use Spore & Lore Inc. activities as an opportunity to promote, sell, or solicit any products, services or personal business interests. This includes but is not limited to:

• Selling or advertising products or services
• Recruiting for personal, business or religious purposes
• Distributing flyers, business cards, or promotional materials

Any violations of this policy may result in dismissal from the event without refund.

9. Enforcement of the Code of Conduct

Spore & Lore Inc. reserves the right to remove any participant who violates this Code of Conduct without refund.

Dismissals are at the sole discretion of the guide, whose decision is final and non-negotiable.

Dismissals apply equally to adult and underage participants, with no exceptions. If an adult ticket holder is dismissed, all underage ticket holders under their supervision will also be dismissed. Likewise, if an underage ticket holder is dismissed, their supervising adult ticket holder—as well as any other underage ticket holders in their care—will also be dismissed. No refunds will be issued in such cases.

No refunds or compensation will be provided for dismissals due to violations of this Code of Conduct. Depending on the severity of the violation, Spore & Lore Inc. reserves the right to prohibit repeat violators from attending future events.

10. Contact Information

For questions regarding this Code of Conduct, please contact us via our “Contact” page.