To save our Admin's time, we sincerely hope this page will answer visitors Frequently Asked Questions. We also recommend that you use the search facility on our site to find specific information. We are updating the site regularly. See our Latest News page

Q. What does ICAN stand for?
A. International Conservation Awareness Network. We added the 21 as we wanted to register the domain name and ICAN had already gone.

Q. How did it start/Who started it?
A. ICAN was started by Friar, the ICAN founder. It was while on a 300 mile English sea journey by canoe that he discovered the Sidmouth Folk Festival in 1977. ICAN evolved from a folk musical beach gathering by a few people at Sidmouth that year. There have been gatherings every year since then.

Q. What is the aim of ICAN?
A. The aim of ICAN is to develop awareness regarding the conservation of nature and its resources. Our long term aim is to set up permanent ecology centres in the UK. This and the implementing of Agenda21 are the reasons for ICAN's existence.

Q. What does it do?
A. Every year, a nature camp, or camps are held within easy reach of rivers, beautiful countryside, small towns and friendly local pubs. One camp is held near to, and at the same time as, the 7 day seaside Sidmouth International Folk Festival (10 miles from Exeter, Devon). The Sidmouth camp is as much a social event, as a nature one. People from the UK and many other countries meet to renew old friendships or make new ones. Shelter, cafe, solar showers and basic flush toilets are provided. You can even help make them!

Q. Is it a festival?
A. There are no commercial activities or electric music at the camps, which are not pop festivals. The focus is on nature. Respect must be shown for the law and people in the location of any camps, which are very friendly occasions.

Q. Are children allowed?
A. They are not just allowed, they are very welcome. Although of course we ask that parents/guardians exercise appropriate control and supervision. We would recommend you check out the photos of previous camps to see just how welcome.

Q. How is it funded and where does the money raised go?
A. Funded by donations and camp fees. Unfortunately the camp only breaks even. ICAN is mainly kept afloat by Friar's credit card... We receive little funding (despite numerous attempts). Thanks to NORTEL for a £100 grant. All those who run the show are volunteers. Donations are welcome - give Friar a ring if you are interested (see contact page).

Q. Who runs ICAN?
A. ICAN involves a small voluntary group of people with a common interest in nature and its conservation. Friar is the main driving organisational force but there are others who stick the envelopes, fill in the forms, answer the e-mail and maintain the website. But we still need more help please.

Q. Can anyone support ICAN?
A. Yes. We are particularly looking for some volunteers in the South Dartmoor area of Devon to help with admin. Must have their own computer and Internet access.

Q. Where can I get more information?
A. Contact us using our online form.

Q. How can I help? (Free camping in exchange for work on the camp).
A. You can even help make shelters, solar showers etc., put up the marquee. There is always lots to do before, during and after a camp. Let us know if you are interested. See the Help ICAN page for more info.

Q. When is the camp 2002?
A. See camp dates.

Q. Where is the camp?
A. See: http://ican21.org.uk/campinfo.html