SAPAA has launched its Site Inspection Report (SIR) system to document the state of Alberta’s Protected Areas. Called SIR-SAPAA, a Google Form is an alternative. Visitors to the areas are encouraged to submit reports. On May 20, 7pm, an orientation will be held.
Continue readingThe March 20, 2026, session informed Alberta’s MLAs about the WAERNAHR Act, emphasizing the importance of protected areas for biodiversity and local economies. It aimed to raise awareness of challenges these areas face and promote responsible use. SAPAA plays a key role in stewardship and monitoring these lands.
Download: Briefing Note for this meeting; Riding & Site Count: RuralMLA_SiteCount.
Riding/Protected Areas Map (same as the Annex Below)
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 protected areas. 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 virtual meeting will showcase its features while inviting expert feedback.
Continue readingSee 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.
Continue readingAs 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.
Continue readingSee 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 readingAlberta’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 readingSAPAA’s second annual report highlights volunteer-led inspections of Alberta’s protected areas, covering over 25% of WAERNAHR Natural Areas. While 80% of sites rated good to excellent, 20% faced issues like dumping and off-highway vehicles.
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.
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SAPAA 