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.
Continue readingPaddling Toward Stewardship
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!
Continue readingReclaiming 40 Years of Stewardship
The post discusses the Historical Site Inspection Reports (SIR) and the process for individuals to reclaim their redacted submissions. If interested parties submit the form by November 1, 2025, SAPAA will compile and present results at the Annual General Meeting.
Continue readingPutting a Price on 40 Years of Stewardship
The Government of Alberta’s site inspection data spans 40 years, revealing a decline in annual reports from 120 in the ’90s to 30 more recently. Approximately 25,000 volunteer hours contributed to this data, which the SAPAA aims to improve for better conservation outcomes. Government Stewards can reclaim their inspection reports.
Continue reading2025 AGM Registration & Agenda
Open to SAPAA Paid Members and those interested in the association.
Continue readingStudent Opportunities – 2025 to 2026
SAPAA offers numerous volunteer projects for post-secondary students, enhancing their resumes while addressing nonprofit needs. Each project emphasizes student involvement, providing practical experience alongside guidance from a dedicated project manager. These are also volunteer opportunities for SAPAA Members.
Continue readingOct 2 – Taking Nature for Granted
SAPAA is hosting an online seminar on October 2, 2025, which will guide nonprofits through the Grant Management life cycle, highlighting best practices and utilizing the SAPAA as a case study for effective grant management.
Continue readingOrganizational Steward – October 2 CoP Session
This session’s theme was replaced with one on Grant Management.
Be sure to register for Oct 2 – Taking Nature for Granted.
What is Citizen Science and how can the Organizational Steward support and benefit from a ‘CitSci’ project? Stephanie Weizenbach, Executive Director of Nature Alberta and founding member of Citizen Science Alberta joins other guests as we explore this topic through this virtual session.
Continue reading2025-06-12 Grant MacEwan PM Capstone Introduction
This 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 reading2025-06-28 – iNaturalist Field Training
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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