See you This Saturday!
A field trip organized for the University of Alberta and Grant MacEwan University students to explore Riverlot 56 Natural Area. Set for November 1, 2025, it encourages nature observation and community interaction. Pre-registration is necessary due to potential weather cancellations.
Continue readingPatsy Cotterill and Manna Parseyan explored the Bellis area and discovered Yellow, Green and Blue: Aspen Forests, Jack Pines and Lakes. They recorded over 100 plant species amidst various ecosystems, including aspen and jack pine forests. Their trip highlights the area’s potential for future exploration, particularly regarding wetlands and diverse vegetation.
Continue readingThis presentation summarizes key elements from a June 2025 session for Grant MacEwan University students working on their Capstone Project. Key topics include the Tragedy of the Commons affecting Alberta’s protected areas, SAPAA’s Safe Operations Program, and recommendations focused on time, talent, and treasure. Success metrics involve student outcomes and real-world applications.
Continue readingThe iNaturalist application is an essential tool for nature identification and documentation. On June 28, 2025, at Sherwood Park Natural Area, SAPAA will provide beginner lessons. Experienced botanists are encouraged to attend and share their expertise. Pre-registration is required and priorities are given to SAPAA and Nature Alberta members. Attendees should prepare for outdoor conditions.
Continue readingThe University of Alberta’s Community Service-Learning program connects students with local community groups. A fall field trip involved snowshoeing and learning about volunteering from experienced stewards, fostering enthusiasm and new perspectives among participants.
Continue readingNestow’s inspection on October 7, 2024, revealed moderate disturbances primarily from invasive species and OHV tracks in the northern region, while the southern area exhibited tree cutting and legacy-dumping near. There is a need for cleanup, fencing, and public awareness to protect the site’s natural beauty.
Continue readingOn September 30, 2024, SAPAA Field Trip partricipants conducted an inspection at Lloyd Creek Natural Area. The rolling terrain supports aspen forest with a diverse understory giving the Natural Area a high naturalness score (3/4). Invasives are confined to the trails, created and still used by ATV riders. Recommendations are for weed control and improved signage.
This is an interim report of Site Inspections for the SAPAA Annual General Meeting. It will be updated and finalized in January, 2025 and represents cumulative inspections conducted since June 2023.
Continue readingSix individuals submitted four site inspection reports for Tawatinaw Natural Area. While mostly consistent, those with a botanical background noted significant invasive plant species colonization of the area.
Continue readingJ.J. Collett Natural Area is maintained by a foundation and provides an invaluable resource for local residents. A SAPAA field trip explored the area and returned with positive reviews on its status.
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