Category Archives: Site Visits

SIR Dragon – March 19, 2026 – 1200pm

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For the Stewards of Alberta’s Protected Areas of Alberta (SAPAA), the Site Inspection Report (SIR) is a key activity to better understand the state of these resources. SAPAA took over the SIR function from the Alberta government in 2023 and created a manual process. Collaborating with the University of Alberta, SAPAA is developing an application that streamlines the reporting process. A presentation at the 2026 Dragon’s Den will showcase its features while inviting expert feedback.

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2026-01-31 – Student Field Trip – RL56

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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 January 31, 2026, it encourages a better understanding of the Stewardship and Site Inspection Process.

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2025-AGM Site Inspection Reports Update

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As of November 21, 2025, SAPAA reported over 3,100 site inspection reports (SIRs) regarding Alberta’s natural areas since 1988. With significant volunteer contributions, this effort highlights both frequently and seldom visited sites, as well as 87 locations awaiting first reports. SAPAA encourages participation in future inspections to foster biodiversity preservation.

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2025-11-01 – Student Field Trip – RL56

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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.

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Bellis Lake NA, September 22, 2025

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Patsy 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.

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Paddling Toward Stewardship

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Alberta’s paddling community can contribute to the body of knowledge about the province’s protected areas… while stretching their legs. Many protected areas have potential for canoeing, kayaking, environmental stewardship, and creating lasting memories of past trips!

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2025-06-28 – iNaturalist Field Training

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The 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.

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Helping to (White) Spruce Up the Place

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Unfortunately, a change in research priorities has resulted in this project being cancelled. Ferf wishes to thank everyone who expressed interest and encourages you to go out an iNaturalist anyway.

The white spruce, Picea glauca, is a familiar conifer. A UofA researcher needs SAPAA’s help identifying stands of white spruce this summer through iNaturalist observations. While you are there, why not submit a Site Inspection report!

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