Fort Simpson (Apr 14/06) - Dakota Burrill and Thomas Roche skateboard on the streets in Fort Simpson daily, and every day someone tells them to go elsewhere.

"If they don't want us on the roads, then give us some help with a skatepark," is Burrill's response.

Burrill, 12, and Roche, 13, were among 15 students who attended a full-day workshop to learn the skills needed to build a skateboard park.

The Thomas Simpson school students listened to the advice of Brian Desjardins.

As a recreation programmer, Desjardins helped youth in his home town of Rocky Mountain House, Alta., through a three-year process to build a skateboard park.

"I think it's obtainable in any community," said Desjardins.

The main concern should be that skateboarders currently don't have anywhere to go in the village, so they end up on the streets, sidewalks and parking lots.

They shouldn't be ostracized, said Desjardins. Not everyone participates in team sports, but that doesn't make them any less of an athlete, he said.

"It's a recreational activity, just like someone who likes to play tennis," said Desjardins.

Desjardins walked the workshop participants through the process needed to build a park.

It starts with creating a steering committee to hold regular meetings and show the public they are serious.

Following that, students will need to find a location and a contractor. Fundraising will include approaching different government levels for funding, he said.

Park design considerations are also important. Price is dependent on the surface, size and elements. If students found a site with an existing asphalt surface and only needed elements, it could still easily cost $30,000 to $100,000, said Desjardins.

He suggests starting small and adding elements as additional funds are raised.

Mayor Duncan Canvin attended the workshop to provide a municipal viewpoint and answer questions.

"The enthusiasm I see here today makes you want to go out and write a cheque," said Canvin.

But the mayor said it will be up to students to push their agenda.

Burrill said students plan to start the process by putting up posters and having a meeting to elect a leader.

At the workshop, the youth already discussed possible locations, such as the field behind the recreation centre, and expanding the park to include inline skaters and people who ride BMX bikes.