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 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 readingSAPAA collaborates with post-secondary institutions to enhance programmatic goals and student learning through a structured project management framework. Utilizing a Seven Successes model, SAPAA prioritizes effective project selection and grant management, while researching site inspection practices and updating web style guides, ultimately aiming for organizational growth and sustainability.
Continue readingAlberta Forestry and Parks is soliciting feedback on the new draft Plan for Parks, which aims to direct the management of provincial parks. The engagement period runs from May 27 to July 26, 2025. This plan, building on the 2009 framework, addresses emerging challenges and opportunities in park management.
Continue readingThe content discusses how Alberta’s protected areas, managed under WAERNAHR, offer resources for Scouts to engage with nature. Utilizing the iNaturalist application, Scouts can contribute to citizen science, learn land ownership principles, and participate in site inspections, enhancing their outdoor experience while fulfilling badge requirements effectively.
Continue readingThe May 13, 2025, meeting of the Organizational Steward Community of Practice focused on technology and stewardship. Presentations included BLESS’s QR code system for reporting park issues and iNaturalist’s use for citizen science in tracking biodiversity. Participants discussed enhancing conservation efforts through technology and shared organizational insights.
Continue readingSAPAA is evolving through its SAPAA 2.0 initiative, focusing on functions previously handled by the Alberta Government. This multi-year effort aims to ensure an Occupational Health and Safety compliant volunteer program by 2025. Challenges include funding and volunteer availability, but the board remains optimistic about progress and community support.
Continue readingUnfortunately, 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!
Continue readingGrant MacEwan University students will participate in a Summer 2025 project extracting iNaturalist data to integrate it into SAPAA’s operations, emphasizing data management and visualization. The project encourages mentorship and professional networking.
Continue readingSAPAA has conducted over 90 site inspections. Simplified and full inspection forms are available. iNaturalist will be utilized for biophysical data collection, and training sessions will be offered to enhance member engagement and support.
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