Nature Views - a forum for environmental discussion - published by Nature Saskatchewan

Issue 175 Fall 2013

Table of Contents Celebration at Grasslands National Park

2 From Your President Jordan Ignatiuk, Executive Director, Nature Saskatchewan eBird Coinciding with the 50th year 3 From Your Editors since the Nature Saskatchewan New Nature Saskatchewan Board resolution calling for the Member establishment of a Grasslands Staff Changes at Nature Saskatchewan National Park, members once New Members again met for a Spring Meet in the area, this time visiting 4 Nature Saskatchewan Summer Staff Canada’s only National Park dedicated to the grassland 5 Fall Meet ecosystem.

6 Nature Saskatchewan Award: Call for Activities kicked off Friday Nominations evening at the Days Inn in Swift S.O.S Save Our SARA Current with a visual presentation of the park by 7 Call for Resolutions Branimir Gjetvaj. A historical State of the World’s Birds overview from the time of the initial resolution to the ultimate 8 Nature Saskatchewan Annual Report creation of the park was and Financial Statements Lorne Scott, Donna Bruce and Gary Seib smiling during the retirement presented by Gary Seib and LMBO tribute to Gary at the Spring Meet Banquet in the Val Marie Village Hall. David Henry. An enlightening Photo by Tracy Johnson. talk about Burrowing Owl 9 Baillie Birdathon research by Geoffrey Holroyd informed members of the current state of the population and interesting findings LMBO Results - Spring 2013 from radio telemetry studies. The evening was concluded with a co-presentation by Mark Wayland of Environment Canada and YeenTen Hwang of Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment on the South of the 10 2013 Margaret Skeel Graduate Divide Initiative. This multi-species approach to the recovery and implementation of actions to address Scholarship Winner Species at Risk in the southwest corner of Saskatchewan is the first of its kind in Canada where Federal and A Working Prairie Provincial departments and non-government agencies are cooperating to manage against the further decline Saskatchewan Breeding Bird Survey or disappearance of iconic prairie species.

11 Learning from the Forest: NatureQuest After days of rain and storms, BCR Strategies Released Saturday morning brought Canadian Loons Survey overcast skies and strong winds as buses boarded at 8 AM sharp 12 Are You A “Wannabe”? for the trip to Val Marie and a tour Thinking Locally of Grasslands National Park. Share Your Skills Besides a short shower in the early afternoon, the rain and 13 Joan Wilson - Saskatchewan Volunteer clouds stayed away to make for Medal an enjoyable day. The buses made various stops along the 14 Prairie Game Population Survey Eco-route where members were Donors met by Park staff and other Volunteers researchers to learn about Prairie Dogs, prairie restoration, the 15 U of S CCE Tours historic Larson homestead, Saskatoon Nature Society Burrowing Owls and the ’76 Nature Regina Field Trips corrals. All were amazed at the regeneration of the prairie from Spring Meet participants learning about Prairie Dogs and Black-footed 16 Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips the recent spring fire that Ferrets in the West Block of Grasslands National Park. Photo by Wildbird Tours occurred in late April. The return Branimir Gjetvag. SBOIC Fundraising Dinner trip to Val Marie allowed time for a stop at the Prairie Wind & Silver Sage Museum and Book Shop prior to a banquet in the community hall. Greetings to the Park were made by Superintendent Katherine Patterson before the feature speaker, Bob Peart, gave us an international perspective on the ‘State of the World’s Grasslands’. Before returning to Swift Current, presentations and thanks were given to retiring General Manager, Gary Seib.

The Annual General Meeting was held Sunday morning back at the Days Inn to hear reports and to elect Tara Sample to the Board to replace Jeff Knievel. The Meet was thoroughly enjoyed, “one of the best I have attended” one member commented and another who had first introduction to Society said “it was engaging and has left an impression; I want to get more involved.”

Nature Saskatchewan Publication Mail Agreement # 40063014 Room 206 Postage Paid in Regina 1860 Lorne Street Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses To: Regina, SK S4P 2L7 Administration Centre Printing Services 111-2001 Cornwall St Regina, SK S4P 3X9 [email protected]

Humanity in Harmony with Nature Page 2 Fall 2013 Nature Views

From Your President NATURE VIEWS

Karen McIver, Nature Saskatchewan President Nature Views provides a forum for discussion, a means for the dissemination of information about environmental issues to the people of Saskatchewan and promotes the aims and objectives of Nature Saskatchewan. Nature Saskatchewan is also known Hello there all Nature Saskatchewan members and friends of Nature Sask. I as the Saskatchewan Natural History Society. stepped into the role of President at our June AGM in Swift Current this year and am looking forward to serving the membership in this capacity. I am a teacher Nature Views is published four times a year by Nature Saskatchewan. Receiving the currently on maternity leave from my position with Regina Public Schools. In newsletter is a benefit from membership in Nature Saskatchewan. Views expressed in Nature Views are not necessarily those of Nature Saskatchewan. April, I had a son and have been enjoying my time spent with him each day, watching him learn and grow. In these short months, I have felt my care and Submissions and comments are invited. Send materials to this Nature Views commitment to preserve our natural ecosystems in Saskatchewan, Canada, and editor: Rob Warnock, 3603 White Bay. Regina, Saskatchewan S4S 7C9. Phone: (306) around the world grow as he does. The work of Nature Saskatchewan is vital in 586-2492. Materials can be sent by email to: [email protected] our province. Layout: Angela Dohms Proof reading: Angela Dohms and Rob Warnock First of all, a sincere farewell goes to our outgoing General Manager Gary Seib. Final proof approval: Rob Warnock Gary has served the membership well and we hope that we will see him at future Submission deadlines: events, as he and his wife Barbara enjoy their retirements together. A friendly Spring issue: January 15 Summer issue: April 1 welcome goes to Jordan Ignatiuk who recently joined Nature Saskatchewan as Fall issue: July 15 Winter issue: October 15 our Executive Director. Jordan brings much experience with conservation organizations and specifically land management, restoration, and preservation Advertising Rates: Full page (14.5" X 10") ...... $400.00 and we are lucky to have such a competent and committed person in the office to 1/2 p. (7" X 10") ...... $200.00 lead our staff. 1/4 p. (7" X 5") ...... $115.00 1/8 p. (3.5 X 5") ...... $ 65.00 One of my strong interests, because of my background in education, is connecting 1/16 p. (3.5" X 2.25") ...... $ 40.00 Classified ads ...... 50 cents/word children and the natural world. After our business meeting at our Spring Meet in Non-governmental organizations will receive a 10 percent discount on their ads in Swift Current the board had the opportunity to speak with Bob Peart about this Nature Views. These rates DO NOT include GST or PST. very topic. Bob has much experience with connecting children and nature and gave the board some food for thought when thinking about our communications The editors reserve the right to edit articles for clarity and space limitations. Materials preferably submitted in RTF format or as a text file with images submitted and programming in the future. Focusing on the next generation(s) of caretakers separately in .jpg or .tif format. More detailed submission guidelines are available on the for the planet is essential given the future of climate change and the challenges Nature Saskatchewan website (www.naturesask.ca). All material printed in Nature set out before them. On October 4, 2013, there will be a one-day conference in Views may only be reprinted with permission from the author. Saskatoon called “Land, Place, and Environment: Advancing Learning and Practice This issue of Nature Views has been printed by the Weyburn Review, Weyburn. Toward a Sustainable Future” hosted by the Sustainability Education Research Circulation: 2200 ISSN: 1207-5450 Institute at the U of S in partnership with the Saskatchewan Outdoor and Environmental Education Association. Folks interested in this topic should OFFICE AND PROGRAM CONTACTS consider attending - visit www.soeea.sk.ca for more registration details. The fee Executive Director Jordan Ignatiuk Species at Risk Manager Melissa Ranalli is only $30 or $10 for students. Conservation & Education Manager Lacey Weekes Office Coordinator Jen Gibson June saw an important visit from Margaret Atwood and Graeme Gibson, renowned Habitat Stewardship Coordinator (Rare Plant Rescue) Laurie Johnson writers and conservationists, who visited Saskatchewan to learn about the Habitat Stewardship Coordinator (Oper. Burrowing Owl) Kaytlyn Burrows Habitat Stewardship Coordinator (Shrubs for Shrikes) Rebecca Magnus importance of the 2.2 million acre community pastures program recently divested Habitat Stewardship Coordinator (Plovers on Shore) Rebecca Magnus by the federal government and put in the hands of the provincial governments in Saskatchewan PlantWatch Coordinator Lacey Weekes the Prairie Provinces (1.6 million acres are in Saskatchewan). The relatively NatureQuest Coordinator John Murray newly formed group, Public Pastures-Public Interest, brought the couple to Inner Nature Jeanne Corrigal Last Mountain Bird Observatory Alan Smith Saskatchewan and set up a tour where they experienced the pastures and spoke Turkey Vulture Tracking/Birds of Saskatchewan Book C. Stuart Houston to the patrons and other interested parties about the significance of these lands to the cultural and natural heritage of our province. The visit and the events BOARD OF DIRECTORS associated with their visit, captured media attention and most likely increased Honourary President J. Frank Roy Past President Donna Bruce the awareness of citizens and political parties. On July 11, the pasture patrons OFFICERS group called the Community Pasture Patrons Association called on the provincial President Karen McIver Vice-president Tara Sample government to give the patron groups a one-year delay to resolve a number of Treasurer Bill Mackenzie Recording Secretary Christie Thomson issues. Patrons have been put in a position to create business plans but there DIRECTORS are many factors that are left up in the air, such as how the province and federal Vinessa Currie-Foster Joan Feather Branimir Gjetvag government will assist patrons with managing Species at Risk on the lands since Suzanne Henry Arlene Karpan Lorne Scott government ministers have assured that Species at Risk legislation will be enforced. Lorelei Wilson Rob Wilson Keep up to date on this issue by visiting http://pfrapastureposts.wordpress.com EDITORS or by emailing [email protected] and ask to receive the updates. Nature Views Rob Warnock and Angela Dohms Blue Jay Kerry Hecker and Lowell Strauss Autumn is a season for preparing for winter and setting out plans for the year to Special Publications Anna Leighton come. We get on more regular schedules again and adjust our daily lives to LOCAL SOCIETIES AND AFFILIATES PRESIDENTS better fit the season. Enjoy your time spent watching the migration and the Chaplin Tourism Committee Clem Millar animals and plants around us prepare for their next challenges. Fort Qu’Appelle Natural History Society Keith Stephens Indian Head Natural History Society Irv Escott Kelsey Ecological Society Michael Pitt Meadow Lake Woodlanders (Junior Forest Wardens) Neil Marsh eBird Nature Moose Jaw Russ McKnight Nature Prince Albert Carman Dodge Nature Regina Dale Hjertaas Reprinted from Saskatoon Nature Society July 2013 E-newsletter Neudorf Nature Trails & Wild Bird Sanctuary Keith Gerstner Saskatoon Nature Society Inc. Joan Feather What is eBird? Southwest Naturalists Irene Stinson Weyburn Nature Society Val Thomas (Secretary) A real-time, online checklist program, eBird has revolutionized the way that the Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association Lauretta Ritchie McInnes birding community reports and accesses information about birds. Launched in Yorkton Natural History Society Geoff Rushowick 2002 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, eBird provides rich data sources for basic information on bird abundance and distribution. For more information, please contact Nature Saskatchewan It is amassing one of the largest and fastest growing biodiversity data resources in existence. MAILING ADDRESS Room 206 1860 Lorne Street How does it work? Regina, SK A birder simply enters when, where, and how they went birding, then fills out a S4P 2L7 checklist of all the birds seen and heard during the outing. The observations of PHONE: 306-780-9273 OR 1-800-667-4668 (in SK only) each participant join those of others in an international network of eBird users. FAX: 306-780-9263 eBird then shares these observations with a global community of educators, land managers, ornithologists, and conservation biologists. In time these data will E-MAIL: [email protected] become the foundation for a better understanding of bird distribution across the western hemisphere and beyond. WEBSITE: www.naturesask.ca

Birders wishing to contribute and record their sightings can register as a new user at the website ebird.org/content/canada.

Conservation Now...For The Future Page 3 Fall 2013 Nature Views

From Your Editors Staff Changes at the Nature Saskatchewan Office

It has definitely been a stormy summer so far, but we have also been able to Nature Saskatchewan welcomes Jordan Ignatiuk as Executive Director replacing enjoy some sunshine and heat. Gary Seib and Jen Gibson as Office Coordinator replacing Kaytlyn Burrows. Their biographies are below. Additional staff changes include Kaytlyn Burrows We welcome our new Executive Director, Jordan Ignatiuk, and our new board becoming Habitat Stewardship Coordinator for Operation Burrowing Owl and Lacey member, Tara Sample. We congratulate Kayla Balderson who is the recipient Weekes becoming Conservation and Education Manager while Deanna Trowsdale- of the 2013 Maragaret Skeel Graduate Student Scholarship. Kayla will continue Mutafov is on extended medical leave. to work on her Master’s degree in Biology, focusing on the Greater Sage- Grouse, at the University of Regina under the surpervision of Dr. Mark Brigham. Jordan Ignatiuk - Executive Director We look forward to seeing her completed research. We would also like to extend a welcome to our new members, and a thank you to all of our generous donors and volunteers.

This issue is bursting at the seams with society news and articles about the Last Mountain Bird Observatory, and Nature Quest. Also be sure to check out the latest news from Bird Studies Canada and Sask Prairie Conservation Action Plan (PCAP). Our Stewards of Saskatchewan teams are out in the field working hard this summer and we look forward to hearing about their summer results.

Please mark your calendar for the next Fall Meet in Meadow Lake, September 20-22, 2013. Full details on the Fall Meet and the registration form are in this issue. Hope to see you there! Nominations for the Nature Saskatchewan Awards presented at the Fall Meet are now open, and due by September 1st, 2013. While registering for the Fall Meet, consider if there is anyone you would also like to nominate for an award.

Be sure to check out the upcoming events throughout the issue and mark some time on your calendar to participate in the many field trips offered by Nature Regina and the Saskatoon Nature Society. Our summer is short, we should get out and enjoy it while we can! Jordan Ignatiuk. Photo courtesy of Jordan Ignatiuk. The Nature Saskatchewan Annual Financial Reports are now available. Details can be found in this issue and the full reports can be requested from the I was born and raised on a farm at Preeceville, SK, where the transition of Aspen Nature Saskatchewan office. Parkland to Boreal Forest begins. Within walking distance of the Assiniboine River, many summer days were spent exploring its shores and the forests and To conclude, we wish everyone a safe and wonderful summer and fall. wetlands around the farm where my love of nature and wildlife was nurtured. I completed an undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Regina and Angela Dohms and Rob Warnock after two summers working on waterfowl with Environment Canada in Saskatoon Co-editors, Nature Views I began my graduate field research there. I received my Master’s Degree from Macdonald College of McGill University. I have worked at Ducks Unlimited, the Saskatchewan Wetland Conservation Corporation (now the Water Security New Nature Saskatchewan Board Member Agency), and most recently with the Nature Conservancy of Canada. My Tara Sample – Vice President career has included academic and applied research, wildlife habitat Hello everyone! I am very much management and conservation, looking forward to serving on which will bring a well-rounded Nature Saskatchewan’s Board of knowledge to the leadership of Directors. Several years ago, I Nature Saskatchewan. I look forward worked as the Habitat Stewardship to the challenge and meeting and Coordinator for Rare Plant Rescue working with the many dedicated and I have always appreciated the members and volunteers. wonderful initiatives that have been accomplished through this Jen Gibson – Office Coordinator organization. Jen Gibson was raised in Alberta/ For the past four and a half years, Saskatchewan and has lived in I have been working as an England, Germany, and Ireland. A Environmental Advisor for lover of people and animals, Jen has SaskEnergy/TransGas. I recently spent many years lending her energy became a Professional Agrologist and voice to causes dear to her heart. with the Saskatchewan Institute of A self-professed ‘city girl’, she has Agrologists. experienced Saskatchewan in an entirely different way since falling for I like to spend my spare time a farmer’s son in 2011, and is excited outdoors with my husband, Dave, to expand her knowledge and love of and our dog, Rosa. Dave and I try Tara Sample at Harvard Museum of Natural our province through her work with Jen Gibson. Photo courtesy of Jen to get out camping and fishing as History’s Glass Flower Exhibit. Photo by Nature Saskatchewan. Gibson. much as we can. Most summer David Freeman. evenings, we can be found in our garden. Although I don’t work as directly with native plants as I have in the past, I continue to be enthralled with their beauty and wonder. I have been slowly Nature Saskatchewan Welcomes These New incorporating native plants into my yard. Members

Steve Abbott Jan Jabusch Richard and Carol Bolt John and Linda Kort Letters to the Editors Doug and Bard Elsasser Richard Lapointe Robin Garvey Robert Moroz David Gehl Bruce Neill Jen Gibson Richard O’Neil A segment of Nature Views is designated for Letters to the Editors. Feel free to Merle Harth Dennis Osatiuk voice your opinion and inform members and the Nature Saskatchewan directors Kayla Hatzel Chrissy Sinclair about issues relevant to our Society. Letters to the Editors provides valuable Casey Hobb Diane and James Wells comments about Nature Views’ articles, programs and ensures we keep on Jordan Ignatiuk Rose Whittle track! Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 4 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Meet the Nature Saskatchewan Summer Staff

Steve Abbott – Stewards of tones of a Lincoln’s Sparrow. It reminds me of the inviting but hidden beauty of Saskatchewan Student Assistant native grassland. Sparrows are often passed over, just like our prairies are, by those who are rushing by looking for the dramatic instead of pausing to soak up Hello, my name is Steve Abbott! delicate, understated beauty. This is my first year with Nature Saskatchewan and I am very excited I use the phrase ‘our prairies’ with some hesitation. I am not a Saskatchewan to be a part of the Stewards of native. I am not even a prairie native. I am a born and raised eastern boy. I grew Saskatchewan programs! I grew up up on a small farm in southeastern Ontario where we had a few cows and goats. on the prairies and spent most of I developed my love of birds and the outdoors there and decided I was interested my childhood summers wandering in biology and conservation. I moved to Sault Ste. Marie for college and studied around the family cottage where I Fish and Wildlife Conservation. After graduation, I received a job offer from the developed a passion for nature at the Nature Conservancy of Canada and began a summer of work on the prairies. heels of my dad and grandpa. Now, I will let you in on a shameful secret of mine: I was not interested in coming Through the summers of 2011 and to Saskatchewan at all. I knew nothing about the province, except that there was 2012 I was privileged enough to work a lot of agriculture and it was, reportedly, very flat. Once I began working on the with the endangered Burrowing Owls native prairies though, my viewpoint changed considerably and I knew I couldn’t at the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl stay away from Saskatchewan for long. A year later, I was back, this time pursuing Interpretive Center (SBOIC) in a degree in Environmental Biology at the University of Regina. Soon after, the Moose Jaw, SK, where I was given inevitable happened and I fell in love with an amazing prairie girl, reminiscent of a the opportunity to travel southern Dodecatheon Shooting-star. I knew I had to lock her down before she realized Saskatchewan, often with a bird on what she was getting into with me, so I married her this spring. Now I am allied my shoulder, to teach people young with both a breathtaking woman and province, and I feel that I can share in a kind and old about prairie conservation. of ownership of the landscape, that I can use the term ‘our’, or even more boldly, I enjoy the art of wildlife photography ‘my’ prairie. Each quarter section of remaining native prairie is a precious resource, as well as creative writing and try to and coupled with this abstract ownership comes pride and the responsibility to Steve Abbott. Photo courtesy of Steve use my photos and writing as a encourage the continued conservation of our grasslands, and subsequently the Abbott. method of teaching whenever I can. birds that use this habitat exclusively. I am excited about the opportunity I have The experiences born through my connections with the ambassador owls Trooper, this summer with Nature Saskatchewan to contribute a little to this endeavor. I Potter, Sanders, and little Georgy at the SBOIC have been life highlights which I hope that I am able to meet a few of you, sit down for a coffee, and chat about the won’t soon forget, and I am glad to be able to work first hand with the Species at birds in your backyard and the prairies in our backyard. Risk programs through Nature Saskatchewan for the summer while I work to finish a diploma in Integrated Resource Management and a degree in Biology. Kayla Hatzel –Stewards of Saskatchewan Student Gabriel Foley - Important Assistant Bird Areas/ Last Mountain Bird Observatory Student Hello! I’m Kayla Hatzel. This Assistant summer I am very excited to be working at Nature Hey folks! My name is Gabriel Saskatchewan as a Stewards Foley, the Important Bird of Saskatchewan Assistant. I Areas summer student, and I was born and raised in can be summed up in two Saskatchewan, and have words (which coincidentally spent most of my life in rhyme): Bird Nerd. I love Saskatoon. For as long as I birds. I love everything about can remember I have loved them. I love the mystery of learning about all creatures, migration. I am fascinated especially birds and mammals, that a newly fledged shorebird and have felt strongly about can find its way flawlessly to conservation. It was therefore its wintering grounds, no big surprise to anyone when surrounded only by other I decided to attend the rookie migrants. I think it is University of Saskatchewan to incredible that a Bristle- obtain my Biology degree. thighed Curlew can fly non- Last year I had the amazing Gabriel Foley birding in the rain. Photo by Kayla Hatzel. Photo courtesy of Kayla Hatzel. stop across the entire Pacific opportunity to co-instruct the Amanda Foley. Ocean, from Alaska to an Ecology Camp for Kids at the U of S where I was able to educate young people obscure island somewhere in Oceania. I am in awe at how the tiny Blackpoll about conservation, habitat stewardship, wildlife, plants, and ecology in general. Warbler can navigate the stormy Atlantic Ocean airspace, from Newfoundland to Since 2011, I have been involved with the Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of South America. I also love what we don’t know about birds. For instance, the Saskatchewan (WRSOS), helping ‘keep wildlife wild’ and returning injured animals wintering grounds of the Black Swift were only discovered last year. The migratory back into the wild. I started out as a wildlife hotline, event, and rescue volunteer path of the Northern Wheatear, the only North American bird to overwinter in and this year have joined the board as a director. Other things I enjoy are walking Africa, was mapped out just two years ago. And the pelagic haunts of many my dog, camping, spending time with family, playing music, and canoeing. For seabirds are still completely unknown. Even for an immediately recognizable many years now I have wanted to be a Wildlife Biologist but no matter what I end bird like the Canada Goose it is unclear just how many species, let alone up doing I hope to make a difference in the world by helping animals in need. I am subspecies, are in the Branta complex. I love birds’ variant, oftentimes therefore very glad to be working on the Species at Risk programs at Nature breathtaking, plumages. Some, like a Painted Bunting strike you instantly as Saskatchewan. spectacular, like the Rocky Mountains do. But I personally prefer the subtler New Canadian Trends Website for Breeding Bird Survey Another Aerial Insectivore at Risk Bird Studies Canada, May 17, 2013 Newsletter Reprinted from July 26, 2013 Bird Studies Canada E-newsletter At its spring meeting held in Winnipeg from April 28 to May 3, the Committee on Environment Canada has announced the launch of a new website that provides the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) assessed the Bank detailed population trend information for about 300 Canadian bird species. The Swallow as a Threatened species. Having declined by as much as 98% since trend results are based on data collected on Canadian routes of the North American 1970, the Bank Swallow joins several other formerly common and widespread Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), which is jointly coordinated by Environment Canada species of aerial insectivores that COSEWIC has recently assessed as being at and the U.S. Geological Survey, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. Visit the risk – Barn Swallow, Eastern Whip-poor-will, Common Nighthawk, Chimney Swift, Canadian BBS trends website http://www.ec.gc.ca/ron-bbs/to explore results Eastern Wood-Pewee, and Olive-sided Flycatcher. At the same meeting, by species or region. COSEWIC reconfirmed that Northern Bobwhite remains Endangered, while the “Queen Charlotte Islands” subspecies of Northern Goshawk remains as Threatened. Environment Canada and Bird Studies Canada (which coordinates BBS surveys Visit the COSEWIC website at http://www.cosewic.gc.ca/eng/sct5/index_e.cfm in some provinces) gratefully acknowledge the hundreds of skilled Canadian to learn more about all 29 species of flora and fauna that were assessed at the volunteers who have participated in the BBS over the years, and those who have meeting. served as provincial or territorial BBS coordinators. Conservation Now...For The Future Page 5 Fall 2013 Nature Views

2013 Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet - Meadow Lake - September 20-22

The “Woodlanders” Junior Forest Wardens will be hosting Nature Saskatchewan’s Accommodations Fall Meet on September 20- 22, 2013. Meadow Lake is a unique area with a rich natural heritage and communities supported by agriculture, forestry and tourism. Hotels Deep in the Boreal Plain, Meadow Lake is surrounded by choice crop and grazing 1. Woodland Inn - 1-800-869-5705 is the most recommended accommodation. land, rolling hills, forest and hundreds of lakes. Born of the fur trade, the community A large block of rooms is being held there for this event. Continental breakfast is saw an influx of settlers during the 1930’s, when dried-out southern farmers and provided. This will be the ‘muster point’ for Saturday morning. The owner is the ranchers came north seeking better conditions. The forests supported many Coordinator of the Meadow Lake JFW Woodlanders. small sawmills over the years, and today three large mills form a vital part of the economy. The area is home to many Cree and Métis people, who are integral 2. Super 8 Motel - 1-306-236-1188 is across the street from the Woodland Inn members of the community. and contains a restaurant and bar.

The Fall Meet events and meals will take place at the Meadow Lake Golf Course 3. Nor’Wester Inn - 1-800-416-4154 convention room, and the Saturday events will be at Pagan Lake, a 20-minute drive from town. 4. Four Seasons Motel - 1-800-472-4851

Schedule Bed and Breakfast 1. Between The Rivers Bed and Breakfast - 306- 236-3174 Friday, September 20 E-mail: [email protected] It is 30 minutes away from Meadow Lake. 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm - Registration at the golf course; snacks & refreshments; local art and photography on display 2013 Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet - Meadow 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm - Welcome and Opening remarks; Larry Morgotch Photography Lake - September 20-22 Event, tour descriptions, socializing Registration Form Saturday, September 21 One per Attendee

Breakfast on your own (Please Print) Name:______8:30 pm - Meet at the Woodland Inn for group assignments and transportation to Pagan Lake. Group transportation is offered. Address:______City/Town:______Morning Tours - Groups 1 & 2 - Boreal Forestry Practices Tour Province:______Postal Code:______- Groups 3 & 4 - Canoeing/Wilderness skills demonstrations & lessons Phone (including area code):______Lunch: ‘Eating the Boreal Forest’ E-mail:______Afternoon Tours - Groups 1 & 2 - Canoeing/Wilderness skills demonstrations & lessons - Groups 3 & 4 - Boreal Forestry Practices Tour Registration Fees Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet Fees before September 6, 2013: 3:15 pm - Depart for Meadow Lake _____ x $95.00 = $______4:00 pm - Nature Saskatchewan business meeting at Golf Course banquet room Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet Fees after September 6, 2013: 6:00 pm - Cocktails (cash bar) _____ x $105.00 = $______Total Fees: $______6:30 pm - Supper

7:30 pm - Nature Saskatchewan Award presentations Please rate your activity level (circle one): 8:00 pm - Presentation: Junior Forest Wardens - Educating our Youth in the Active/Fit Limited activity Physical activity difficult Outdoors

Sunday, September 22 Please rate your canoe confidence (circle one) : Zero Maybe No problem Optional museum tours

Saturday Tours Dietary needs______1. Forestry Tour Mr. Al Balisky, manager of Mistik Management, will conduct a driving tour of Memberships (check all that apply): representative sites in the Boreal Forest. Learn about the life cycle of the forest, from seedling to old-growth, witness the effects of fire, weather and people on the Nature Canada____ Nature Saskatchewan____ Junior Forest Wardens____ forest. Learn about modern sustainable forestry practices, and the challenges Nature Saskatchewan Affiliate (please specify)______presented by changing climate, population pressures and economics. Mr. Balisky is a highly accomplished professional forester and a fascinating speaker. Registration deadline: September 13, 2013 2. Get on the water! Some people are old hands at canoeing, and some have never been on the water Make your payment to Nature Saskatchewan. before. For this reason, we have asked you to rate your fitness level and experience, so that we may place you in a group that is comfortable and challenges you... just a little bit! Absolute beginners, scared-to-death-of-the- Mail registration form and payment to: water-folks will have fun just learning about canoes and playing with some basic Nature Saskatchewan, 206-1860 Lorne Street, Regina, SK S4P 2L7. paddling techniques... close to shore. The more adventurous will enjoy an hour paddle exploring the lakeshore and - most likely - viewing many waterfowl. And not to worry, if the water is really not for you, there’s plenty to enjoy on shore.

3. Wilderness skills Income Tax Receipts Junior Forest Warden youth and leaders will be teaching you some basic skills, such as fire lighting with flint & steel, shelter building and much else. Plus, there Nature Saskatchewan issues an income tax receipt for each donation. This is an interpretive walking trail and our young members will be your guides! helps you to have your receipt handy when you need it. Your support is greatly appreciated! If you have made a donation and don’t receive a tax receipt make sure you contact our office.

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 6 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Nature Saskatchewan Awards: Call for Nominations

Each year at the Fall Meet, Nature Saskatchewan recognizes outstanding 1. Volunteer Recognition Award service and contributions that Society members, and/or affiliate and partner organizations have made towards Nature Saskatchewan’s objectives and goals. This award was created in 1996 to acknowledge an individual Nature Saskatchewan Recently, the Awards Committee has recommended that the awards be member who has devoted significant time and energy to promoting the objectives of restructured slightly. Clear criteria have been established in terms of purpose, the Society, including contributions made at the local society level. Priority for this eligibility, and nomination procedure. This year, we are seeking nominations for award will be given to a Nature Saskatchewan member whose volunteer work has three classes of awards – Volunteer Recognition Award, Fellows Award, helped to enhance the public awareness of the Society (this may include contributions and Conservation Award. The Volunteer Recognition Award and Conservation to a Society conservation project or program). It may be appropriate in some years Award can be conferred on the same individual or organization more than once. to have this award shared by more than one person, if they have worked together on the same project, or on closely related projects. The Cliff Shaw Award will also be presented at the Fall Meet. The recipient is chosen by the Blue Jay editors. Eligibility Nature Saskatchewan members who have provided valuable time and effort in Local societies throughout Saskatchewan play an important role in furthering contributing to the Society are eligible. Local societies are encouraged to nominate conservation and appreciation of nature at the local level. There are always someone from their local group who is a Nature Saskatchewan member, recognizing those who step up to the plate to organize meetings and outings, go the extra that Nature Saskatchewan values their contributions to the overall goals of the Society. mile to help others connect with nature, or work silently and tirelessly behind The nominee must be a current member of Nature Saskatchewan. This award can the scenes. It’s time those contributions were recognized. We encourage anyone be conferred on the same person more than once. from a local society to consider nominating someone from your local group who is a Nature Saskatchewan member, who deserves recognition for any of these 2. Fellows Award awards. Note that nominees for the Volunteer Recognition Award and Fellows Award must hold a current membership with Nature Purpose of the Award Saskatchewan. A motion was passed at the 1987 Annual General Meeting creating a new class of honorary membership entitled “Fellows of the Saskatchewan Natural History Society”. In the interests of space, we are including the Nomination Procedure once, This award recognizes an extensive and continuing contribution of time over many since the procedure is the same for all three awards. The criteria and names of years to the Society and its objectives. Up to five recipients may be chosen annually. past recipients can be found on the website here: http://www.naturesask.ca/ Once selected, Fellows hold that title as long as they remain members of the Society. what-we-do/awards. The office can also send you a copy by mail, if you prefer. It is the highest honour the Society can bestow upon a member.

Nomination Procedure Eligibility Eligible individuals are members of Nature Saskatchewan who have provided an · Nominations can be made by Nature Saskatchewan members, directors, outstanding time and work contribution to the Society over many years. These and staff. Local societies should consider nominating someone from contributions have been significant, and may have come in the form of leadership, their local group. communication, authorship, social media outreach, research, and other areas. The · Self-nominations will not be accepted. contributions have been cumulative or ongoing, and represent long-standing service or commitment to Nature Saskatchewan and its objectives. · Nominations are to be made in writing and submitted by the published deadline. 3. Conservation Award

· Nominations are to include the following information: Purpose of the Award In addition to advocacy and other forms of conservation action, it is important that o The nominee’s name, address, and phone number; Nature Saskatchewan recognize, as it has done since 1953, those both within and beyond the organization who have done “meritorious work in the interest of o The nominator’s name and contact information; conservation in Saskatchewan.” o Details of the nominee’s efforts. Nature Saskatchewan’s Conservation Award will be presented to an individual or · The Awards Committee will independently rate the nominations, and organization whose total contribution to conservation is outstanding, whether in confirm that the nominee holds a current membership with Nature relation to a particular project or in a number of roles over a period of years. Saskatchewan. Eligibility · Chairperson of the Awards Committee will bring the recommendations to Individuals, affiliate and/or partner organizations, not-for-profit associations, the Board. institutions, community groups, businesses, government and non-government organizations that have contributed significantly to conservation in Saskatchewan. · If ratified, the President or his/her delegate shall confer the respective This award can be conferred on the same individual or organization more than once. Awards to the recipients at the Fall Meet. The deadline to submit nominations for awards is August 31, 2013. S.O.S Save Our SARA All Nature Saskatchewan Awards consist of the following: Reprinted from May 2013 Nature Canada E-newsletter · The announcement of the recipient’s name at the Fall Meet. · The presentation of a certificate recognizing the contribution. Canada’s Species At Risk Act (SARA) is endangered. The federal government is considering changing it. At stake is a large part of our nation’s natural legacy: · An announcement in Nature Views recognizing the distinction. whales, sea lions, wolves, caribou and thousands of other species struggling to survive.

Send an S.O.S at http://saveoursara.ca/.

Dendroica Aids Bird Identification In the seven days beginning May 22, International Day of Biological Diversity, thousands of Canadians will be speaking out for SARA — because we are all in Reprinted from May 31, 2013 Bird Studies Canada E-newsletter this together.

Participating in a bird survey? Need to practice your bird ID? The Dendroica The Act protects species and their habitat on federal lands, and provides a critical (http://www.natureinstruct.org/dendroica/) module of NatureInstruct has safety net for endangered species, wherever they live in Canada. When species numerous recordings and photos of every breeding bird species in Canada (and disappear, our web of life is weakened, one that provides for all of us: clean air, many more from elsewhere in the Americas). Browse through the species, or water, soil and other natural resources that sustain whole communities and our select the “Quiz” to see how well you can separate species. If you register (it is economy. free!), you can create a custom list of species to study and practice on a quiz. This can be particularly useful for participants in Bird Studies Canada’s programs, Last year, the federal government gutted the Fisheries Act, the Canadian such as breeding bird atlases. Environmental Assessment Act, and the Navigable Waters Protection Act. SARA could be next. Ever wondered what a bird song ‘looks’ like? Click “spectrogram” to see a visual representation of each recording as it plays. There is also increased The good news? It’s not too late and you can help. Tell the federal government to support for mobile devices, making it even easier to use NatureInstruct when fully implement SARA, not kill it. Your voice is needed now: Save Our SARA. you’re out and about. Yes, I’ll send an S.O.S.

Conservation Now...For The Future Page 7 Fall 2013 Nature Views Birds Indicate a Planet in Peril, but Investing in Call for Resolutions Conservation Makes Economic Sense

Donna Bruce, Resolutions Committee Chair BirdLife International via Birds Studies Canada June 28, 2013 E-newsletter

The resolutions presented each year at the Fall Meet are very important Declines in birds across the expressions of member concerns on environmental issues. The Nature globe are providing evidence Saskatchewan Board of Directors is responsible for acting on all resolutions that of a rapid deterioration in the are passed by the members. This includes sending resolutions directly to the global environment that is responsible government ministry and following up through further activities and/or affecting all life on earth – meetings with government and others, as deemed appropriate. including people. However, birds also tell us that saving At the 2013 Fall Meet, resolutions will be debated during the Business Meeting the planet comes at a st on Saturday, September 21 . Anyone wishing to submit a resolution for relatively small price – an consideration at that meeting is asked to send a written draft to the Nature investment that’s vital to th Saskatchewan Office ([email protected]) no later than Monday, August 26 . secure our own future.

Resolution Guidelines: These are some of the 1. Resolutions must be in keeping with the society’s mandate, bylaws and messages in a new report goals. State of the World’s Birds: indicators for our changing 2. All resolutions must be submitted in writing. world by the world’s largest 3. A resolution is, essentially, an exercise in communication. Simple, clear Partnership of conservation language and focus on one topic or issue is most effective. organisations, BirdLife International, who have gathered in Ottawa, Canada to launch the report and 4. Supporting information presented in “Whereas” statements must be unveil their vision for a world rich in biodiversity, where people and nature live in accurate and factual. harmony. 5. Resolutions should be no longer than one page, preferably less. The status of the world’s birds continues to get worse with many species slipping 6. To ensure consideration, resolutions must be submitted to the Nature towards extinction and others in steep decline. Birds are facing threats on many Saskatchewan office by the stated deadline. Resolutions from the floor fronts but habitat destruction and degradation, owing to changes in agriculture, will be debated only with the agreement of a 2/3 majority of those attending as well as direct impacts from invasive species are the major causes. However, the business meeting. birds also provide a lens through which we can view all nature. 7. Members of the resolutions committee will provide comments and suggestions on all draft resolutions submitted. Resolutions may be “Birds provide an accurate and easy to read environmental barometer that allows revised in response to committee suggestions prior to final submission. us to see clearly the pressures our current way of life are putting on the world’s biodiversity,” said Dr. Leon Bennun, BirdLife’s Director of Science, Information 8. The debate of resolutions is governed by Robert’s Rules of Order. Each and Policy. resolution must be presented as a motion by one member (the mover) and seconded by another member before it can be considered. The BirdLife Partnership has identified the most important places for nature. 9. Resolutions are decided by a majority vote of the members present. These are called Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas – IBAs for short. Over 12,000 have now been documented, with major recent advances in identifying A summary of each submitted resolution will be posted on the Nature IBAs in the marine environment. Saskatchewan website prior to the Fall Meet, so members can see the issues and questions that are being raised. Members registered to attend the Fall Meet We know where the most important sites for nature are – we call these Important may obtain copies of submitted resolutions prior to the meet via email upon Bird and Biodiversity Areas – IBAs for short. request. Anyone seeking assistance with the content or wording of a resolution should IBAs represent the largest systematically identified global network of important contact the Nature Saskatchewan office or a member of the Resolutions sites for biodiversity but only 28% are completely covered by existing protected Committee: Donna Bruce, Lorne Scott and Bill MacKenzie. areas. Effectively protecting and managing all IBAs would cost $57.8 billion per year. Combined with the cost of actions to improve the status of threatened species in all wildlife groups, conserving nature has been estimated to cost US$80 billion per year. Calling All Photographers “The total sums may sound large, but they are small in terms of government The Board has agreed to try a new approach with respect to the Larry Morgotch budgets, and they should be seen as investments, not bills – saving nature Memorial Award for photography. Over the past few years, entries for this award, makes economic sense because of the payback in terms of services and benefits which recognizes excellence in photography, have fallen considerably. To that people receive in return, from mitigating climate change to pollinating crops,” encourage more people to share their photos, this year on a trial basis we will be said Dr. Stuart Butchart, BirdLife’s Head of Science. staging the Larry Morgotch Photo Event to acknowledge excellence in nature photography as exemplified by Larry Morgotch. The event will celebrate nature “More fundamentally, biodiversity underpins our planetary life-support systems – through photography, without the element of competition. No one will receive an in order to survive and prosper, we have to look after it.” award; instead, all contributions will be enjoyed and appreciated. The positive message from the report is that conservation works. Where threats Members attending the Fall Meet are invited to present photos of their choice on are tackled through focused interventions, conservation can succeed. Some Friday evening that portray any aspect of nature from anywhere. Videos can species have been brought back from the brink of extinction in spectacular fashion also be shown. Just bring your photos or videos on a memory stick or USB flash and degraded habitats can be restored. drive, or a CD when you come to the Fall Meet. Digital images may be individual files, assembled as a Power Point or similar type of presentation, or an executable “Effective nature conservation is affordable and it works. It’s time to make it file. Name the files so they display in the correct order. Individual files must be happen. The result will be a world that is in every way wealthier and healthier – in JPG format with the longest dimension no more than 1300 pixels. If your and that remains diverse and beautiful too,” concluded Dr. Bennun. presentation was made using a Macintosh computer, try it first on a PC to make sure it runs correctly. Your presentation should be a maximum of 5 minutes. Read the full report here: http://www.birdlife.org/community/wp-content/uploads/ We’ll have a computer and digital projector already set up. 2013/06/SOWB2013.pdf

Here’s a chance to showcase some of your favourite images of nature without Visit the State of Birds webpage here for more information: http://www.birdlife.org/ pressure of competition. datazone/sowb.

Are you Moving? Please let us Know! Nature Saskatchewan is now on Facebook and Twitter! If you are planning on moving and wish to continue receiving Nature Views and Blue Jay, PLEASE notify the Nature Saskatchewan office in Regina at Nature Saskatchewan is now on Facebook and Twitter! To find us, search 306-780-9273 or 1-800-667- 4668 (in SK only) during regular business hours “Nature Saskatchewan” on Facebook, and “NatureSask” on Twitter. There Monday to Friday or anytime by fax at 306-780-9263 or e-mail at are also links to these pages on our website. We hope you’ll follow us! [email protected]. It is a waste of money and resources when you don’t as it costs Nature Saskatchewan for all returned mail. Thank you.

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 8 Fall 2013 Nature Views

2012-13 Nature Saskatchewan Annual Report and Financial Statements Available

Nature Saskatchewan’s 2012-13 Annual Report and audited financial statements are available from the Nature Saskatchewan office upon request.

Data from Last Mountain Bird Observatory are being used in Continent-wide Research.

Alan R. Smith, Station Manager, Last Mountain Bird Observatory, Nature 2. Hummingbird Partnership and Data Portal. The applicant is Josée Rousseau on Saskatchewan behalf of the Humboldt Bay and Klamath Bird Observatories, Arcata, CA. The data will be used to promote the understanding of our hummingbird populations at the Over the last few months a number of requests for bird banding and census large scale. The data are to be compiled and made available to the Western data from LMBO have been received. These requests have been sent via Bird Hummingbird Partnership. The intent is to advance knowledge of the distribution, Studies Canada’s “Nature Counts” portal and demonstrate the continent-wide trends, and population demographics of hummingbirds. importance of data gathered at Migration Monitoring stations such as LMBO. 3. Passerines and Exurban Development in Saskatchewan. The applicant is The following requests for data have been approved and include: Charlotte Gayler as a class project for the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon. She is examining species composition changes from a natural prairie environment 1a. Modeling spatial and temporal patterns of landbird migration in the Gulf of to an urban environment. Saskatoon is growing dramatically and this project aims Maine and a follow-up study: 1b. Birds in the wind: modeling past and future to investigate how this effects the biodiversity and species composition. spatial patterns of bird migration in the North Eastern US. The applicant is Jennifer McCabe of the University of Maine, Orono, ME. These data are intended 4. Biodiversity analysis and environmental correlates of bird distribution in Canada. for her PhD dissertation and peer reviewed articles. The applicant is You Hua Chen of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC. She hopes to “reveal the influence of climate and other environmental variables on the distribution of birds in Canada and North America.” She intends to publish her results in a refereed journal.

Conservation Now...For The Future Page 9 Fall 2013 Nature Views

2013 Baillie Birdathon at Last Mountain Bird Observatory

Gabriel Foley, Baillie Birdathon Leader and Last Mountain Bird Observatory/ like any nearly-married couple Important Bird Areas Summer Student, Nature Saskatchewan would do, we proceeded to sweetly discuss the identity of I looked, for the fiftieth time, at the glowing hands of what I was certain was a my watch. The minutes were passing far too slowly. Common Tern, but she was I couldn’t sleep, thinking about the Yellow Rails and convinced was a Forster’s Tern. Eastern Screech-Owls I wasn’t hearing. But I had Our reconciliation was much strict instructions from my fiancée not to wake her swifter once we realized we up before 6:00 AM, and with only a week left until the were looking at two different wedding, I decided not to push my luck. I did that birds. I found a well- enough without even trying. I had already heard Sora camouflaged American Bittern and Great Horned Owl from inside the tent, and while she squeezed out the mentally ticked them off our day’s list. I had meticulously planned my route for Loggerhead Shrike we had the birdathon, where Amanda and I would try to see or hear as many bird species missed on our previous check American Bittern. Unknown, Ministry as possible within 24 hours to raise money for bird conservation in Canada. of an old homestead. We were of Environment. Finally, I heard a Brown Thrasher start to sing, then an American Robin. It was now sitting at 93 species. dawn! I grabbed my notebook and headed outside the tent. As the gray light of dawn slowly turned into the red light of morning, more birds began to wake up, Amanda had to be back in Regina for a friend’s wedding, so off we raced, picking the males lustily singing in defense of their hard-won territories including Red- up a Horned Lark and a Swainson’s Hawk before hitting the highway. A U-turn winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Clay-coloured Sparrow. Songs were worthy of Indiana Jones was the result of a Least Sandpiper innocently feeding in coming hard and fast now. a slough, and a Turkey Vulture got a double fist pump. We were only three birds shy of 100 species, but I was having trouble thinking of where we could find new I was at Last Mountain Bird Observatory, at the north end of Last Mountain bird species in Regina. Amanda said she knew of a Merlin nest in the city, so we Lake, and I was ticking birds off my list. Normally, I like to take long, studious decided to stop there before dropping her off. We stepped out of the car, she looks at the birds I find, but not today. Today was not about meticulous plumage focused my scope on the top of a spruce tree, and, bingo, there was our 98th patterns or interesting behaviour. Today was about finding species. Generous species. Man, I love this woman. donors had pledged a certain amount per bird species we found, so the more birds we found, the more money we raised, and I intended to raise as much as After she scurried into the reception, I headed west of town, confident I could find possible. The mournful dirge of a Harris’ Sparrow rang out, and a Northern a Red-tailed Hawk. Instead, it took a full forty-five minutes to track down one of Harrier coursed over a distant marsh. I caught some movement in a willow the most common hawks in the area. I came back into town and picked up my shrub and there was a Ruby-crowned Kinglet! Kinglets should have all migrated girl, relieved that at least I didn’t return empty-handed. We were at 99 species, north by now, but the late spring held this feisty little bird back and I had the but it was getting dark fast. We headed to the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, privilege of finding him. hoping for a thrush or a nuthatch. We caught a glimpse of something smallish skulking in a spruce. We approached it cautiously, but it flew before we could For the next hour and a half I continued to check species off. I found 46 species, identify it. It was definitely a thrush, but we couldn’t count it for our list unless we including Hooded Merganser, Greater Scaup, and White-winged Scoter before I knew the species. Stealthily (I like to think of us as the birding equivalent of the returned to the banding station and woke my soon-to-be bride. She really does Navy SEALS; Amanda says I’m just a nerd), we flanked it from either side. The love me; it just takes a few minutes early in the morning for her to remember bird flew to the ground, our binoculars focused on the target, and identification that. We birded the park together for another two hours, until Gary Seib joined was reached. Swainson’s Thrush! 100 birds! But we still had 15 minutes of us. My luck in conscripting birders had been awful so far. Two conscripts had light, and a Yellow Warbler sang out. already succumbed to sprained or broken ankles shortly after agreeing to join me for the day, and it seemed word of this luck had spread. Although short on Since warblers are often found in flocks, we decided to see what else was with fellow birders, with Gary’s help we still added another two dozen birds before him. Amanda found several birds, but nothing new. I was in the same boat; just leaving the park, bringing the total to an even 70 species, including a lovely a couple chickadees and a robin scurrying around under a willow. Wait. That’s female Blackpoll Warbler I couldn’t help but watch for an extra minute or two. not a robin. That’s a catbird. Nope. Not a catbird. Maybe I should use my binoculars. Yes! Spotted Towhee! As the sun set and we walked back to our As the day grew hotter, birds slowly dropped off singing, convinced that their truck, hand in hand, we recounted the birds, just to be sure. 101 species, which territory boundaries had been sufficiently advertised. Amanda and I then hit the meant we raised a total of $305.50. Amanda and I had a great day together, and road in search of less musical birds, such as ducks and shorebirds. Amanda we really appreciate the generosity of everyone who supported us. Thanks to found a Ring-necked Duck while I pointed out a Black-bellied Plover, and then, everyone who made this birdathon possible and especially to Gary Seib for coming out and birding with us.

Last Mountain Bird Observatory – Preliminary Results – Spring 2013

Alan R. Smith, Bander-in-Charge, Last Mountain Bird Observatory, Nature New birds captured: 381 (1992-2012 average: 537); 40 birds of 13 species returned Saskatchewan, E-mail: [email protected] to LMBO after one or more years. A male Red-winged Blackbird banded on 12 May 2010 was recaptured on 26 May of this year. This is the first 23rd consecutive spring of coverage (22nd of standardized coverage). return for this species and brings the number of species with one or more returns to 25. Migration Monitoring: Species Peak: 29 May, 21 species. First Day of coverage: 9 May. Banding peak: 18 May, 63 birds. Last day of coverage: 31 May. Total days of coverage: 23 of a possible 23 (100%). Top 10 captures: White-throated Sparrow 59 House Wren 22 Number of staff: 4 (Gabriel Foley, Alan Smith). American Robin 32 Yellow-rumped Warbler 21 Number of volunteers: 6 (Bert Dalziel, Shelly Fisher, Jamie Harden, Dale Jefferson, Clay-coloured Sparrow 27 Yellow Warbler 17 Brenda Kramarchuk, Jordan Rustad). Least Flycatcher 26 Brown-headed Cowbird 14 Number of person-days effort: 47 (last year 65). Gray Catbird 22 Baltimore Oriole 10 Number of visitors: 70 (last year161). Comments: Only 2 of the top 10 captures were of migrant species - a strong Observation effort: census, casual and incidental observations. indication of a poor and uneventful spring migration. Numbers of most locally Trapping effort: 12 - 12mx30mm mist nets and one 12mx35mm mist net for 1367 nesting species were also low, which suggests that these species were still arriving when LMBO closed at the end of May. An exception was the Gray Net hours: 279 birds/1000 net hours (1992-2012 average: 411). Catbird, which was caught in unprecedented numbers that eclipsed the previous high of 14 set last year. No new species was captured so the all time number Number of species observed: c. 100. species captured in the spring remains at 99. Number of species captured: 50 (1992-2012 average: 48).

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 10 Fall 2013 Nature Views 2013 Margaret Skeel Graduate Scholarship A Working Prairie Winner Reprinted from June 2013 Prairie Conservation Action Plan E-newsletter Rob, Warnock, Margaret Skeel Graduate Scholarship Committee Member Designing and implementing a province-wide database application used to Every year Nature Saskatchewan awards a scholarship to a worthy Saskatchewan catalogue vegetation survey data has been the major initiative undertaken by a university graduate student. The Selection Committee favours applicants whose focus group during the 2009-2013 PCAP Framework. The Vegetation Information research will increase knowledge of all aspect of the natural world, foster its System Saskatchewan (VegISS) project was initiated in 2009 to create a common appreciation and promote its conservation. The applicants for the scholarship are platform for storing data from rangeland and riparian health surveys. In 2011, it judged on their academic qualifications, extracurricular activities but are primarily was expanded to include data from forest surveys, and can now be regarded as a judged on their field of interest and their research project, which must be compatible general platform for most types of vegetation data collected in the province. The with the aims of the Society and our Vision and Mission statements. project was led by a steering committee consisting of representatives from Water Security Agency, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment, Saskatchewan Ministry Our Vision: Humanity in Harmony with Nature Our Mission: To promote appreciation of Agriculture, Saskatchewan Ministry of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport, and understanding of our natural environment through education; and through Saskatchewan Research Council, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Environment conservation and research, to protect and preserve natural ecosystems and their Canada, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Ducks Unlimited Canada. biodiversity. VegISS is a stand-alone Windows application developed using .NET and was We also were very fortunate to be able to maintain the amount of the scholarship initially built to store information in several different database formats including to $2,000 this year for the winning applicant. When I say winning applicant I have Access, SQL Server and Oracle. The current release of VegISS has been tested to say that all 8 of the very worthy applicants this year were winners. The selection to work with Access, and tests with SQL Server and Oracle are not yet complete. committee members (Karen McIver, Branimir Gjetvag and Rob Warnock) are very excited and inspired at the quality, innovation, and creative thinking put into the VegISS is a ready to use product that can organize and structure data, save and applications we reviewed. We will contact every applicant requesting further store the data, and generate reports from that data. VegISS has capacity to communication and updates, and have encouraged them to submit their results store plot information such as location, site characteristics, vegetation sampling for consideration in the Blue Jay. If you would like more information on the projects data, and any applicable health assessment forms. These include: submitted please contact our office. • Lotic Health Assessment And now, congratulations to the • Lentic Health Assessment Nature Saskatchewan Scholar- • Grassland Health Assessment field worksheet ship winner, Kayla Balderson! • Forest Range Health Assessment - Indicator method • Forest Range Health Assessment - Quantitative method With an academic background in • Tame Health Assessment environmental and conservation sciences, Kayla is endlessly All vegetation surveys and health assessment forms have formatted reports that interested in the conservation of can be generated to provide hard copy or electronic output. endangered species and their habitats. She has worked for So much time is spent collecting vegetation data, this database is now the answer Alberta Conservation Association, to effectively analyse, store and share this important information. Ducks Unlimited, Nature Con- servancy of Canada and Alberta The User Guide along with a list of data that has been entered into the database Department of Environment and can be found on the SK PCAP web-site under the Resources & Literature tab. Sustainable Resource Develop- ment. Kayla has participated in For more information regarding the VegISS project, please contact Jennifer a variety of wildlife surveys in Lohmeyer, with the Water Security Agency, at (306) 787-8707 or jennifer. grassland habitats including [email protected]. Kayla Balderson working for the Nature songbirds, waterfowl, Short- Conservancy of Canada in 2009 on horned Lizards, Northern Leopard Sandstone Ranch in southwest Alberta. Frogs, and Ferruginous Hawks. Photo by Sarah Neilsen. Since May 2012, she has worked Saskatchewan Breeding Bird Survey 2012 on a number of Greater Sage Grouse projects including surveys and habitat reclamation for the Government of Alberta. Kayla will continue to study Greater Alan R. Smith, Saskatchewan Breeding Bird Survey Coordinator Sage Grouse as part of her Master’s degree in Biology at the University of Regina under the supervision of Dr. Mark Brigham. Her thesis topic is: A modelling After several years in which we added one or more new observers, none were approach to assess the response of Greater Sage-Grouse to reclamation of added this year. Scott Wilson, however, conducted another route at Parkbeg, anthropogenic features and the effectiveness of Conservation and Development which helped to match the 14-year low of 22 surveyed routes in 2010. A Wood Zones for managing industrial development to contribute to the recovery of Sage- Duck on Dan Sawatzky’s Kenosee Lake Route was only the third in BBS history grouse habitat in Alberta. with previous birds in 1981 and 1991. Lark Buntings have rebounded nicely from 5 consecutive years with 0 to 17 birds to a respectable 212 birds. After Apart from her academic pursuits, Kaya loves the outdoors and has been very sporadic occurrences in 1978 and 1989, the Orchard Oriole has now been active volunteer including a stints a Vice-President of the local Outdoor Recreation recorded in 3 of the last 4 years including 2 birds on Trevor Herriot’s Tyvan Club and as President of University of Alberta chapter of the Wildlife Society. We Route and one on Dan Sawatzky’s Arcola Route in 2012. No new species were are very pleased to be awarding her the scholarship and look forward to her added; the total thus remains at 230 out of the province’s total of 248 regularly presenting her research to our membership! breeding species.

Attention Photographers- Nature Views Submission Guidelines!

To assist the Nature Views editors with managing photo submissions, please do Dragonfly Pond Watch Project the following: Reprinted from The Xerces Society website. · Do NOT embed photos and other graphic material in text files! Otherwise, it is more work for the editors. Dragonfly Pond Watch is a volunteer-based project of the Migratory Dragonfly · Send photos and other graphic material as separate files. Partnership (MDP). Observers collect seasonal information at local ponds on a · Use tiff or jpeg file format regular basis to monitor the presence, emergence, and behaviors of migrant and · Minimize file size while maintaining photo quality. This helps keep overall resident populations of migratory species. These investigations will expand our file size down and speed up downloads understanding of the local life histories of migrant and resident populations and of · Use descriptive file names. Generic file names from photo software are the timing and location of dragonfly migration. not very helpful. The MDP needs your help to contribute to our growing knowledge of dragonfly Supply captions for all photos. Good captions include common names of species, migration! Visit http://www.xerces.org/dragonfly-migration/pondwatch/ for more names of people, locations, activities, behaviours and dates and very importantly details. photo credit.

Your submissions are greatly appreciated and always welcome.

Rob Warnock and Angela Dohms, Co-editors, Nature Views Conservation Now...For The Future Page 11 Fall 2013 Nature Views Learning from the Forest: Sâkewew High School Students take part in innovative NatureQuest Programming

Kjelti Anderson

We have much to learn from Mother Earth; this is one of the first tenants of Permaculture. After all, ecosystems have taken thousands of years to develop and diversify; with each organism taking their place in the interconnected webs that support all life on the planet. Through a Permaculture lens, we can look at the important place of a particular organism within this web – and of course now I’m talking about humans – and consider the possibilities for creating sustainable human habitat within healthy ecosystems. Students with Kjelti Anderson smile after planting a food and medicine Students from Sâkewew High A macro-shot of a spider taken by a Grade garden they created in front of their school. Photo by Reid Stewart. School in North Battleford were Nine student participating in a macro- invited to participate in a photography program with John Murray. that I think many of the students were able to find a quiet within themselves semester long NatureQuest / Photo courtesy of Kjelti Anderson. impossible to find amidst the chaos and confusion of city life. Boreal Forest Learning Centre program to explore the concept of an ecosystem and their place within it from a The program wrapped up in mid-June with students creating a small food and First Nations, boreal ecology, and permaculture perspective. The focus on medicine garden right outside the front doors of their school! This 1.5 m by 4.5 m permaculture incorporates positive and practical solutions to the challenge of garden is now home to two Saskatoon berry bushes, strawberries, sweetgrass, living in a truly sustainable way with the valuable lessons that come from a giant hyssop, wild mint, sweetgrass, prairie and pasture sage, tobacco, pink traditional First Nations worldview. onion, wild hops, and some other native medicinal plants. For years to come, this garden can serve the staff and students as an outdoor biology lab, space for Students participated in weekly activities with Kjelti Anderson from January until cultural teachings, and of course place for harvesting! In the words of one student June that covered everything from soil science to storytelling. Guest facilitators – “now what we’ve built will help other students learn just like us.” John Murray and Joseph Naytowhow used song, dance, maps, history, and photography to engage the students on the profound ecological and cultural The success of the program was celebrated by students and staff and plans are in significance of the great boreal forest. Bonnie Logan captivated them with tales the works for continuing and expanding the program in the next school year. I’d from Africa and Mexico, and Daphie Pooyak brought some of her gathered plant like to give a huge thank you to John Murray of NatureQuest and Nature medicines for them to touch, smell, and learn about. Saskatchewan for all the support during this pilot project. In addition to Nature Saskatchewan, this program was made possible with funding from Saskatchewan A three-day trip to the Ness Creek Cultural and Recreation site in May allowed Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and Saskatchewan Outdoor and Environmental students that first-hand experience that no classroom lecture can conjure; the Education Association (SOEEA). THANK YOU! chance to see, breathe, touch, smell, and truly feel the forest. While in the forest, the students created nature mandalas from medicinal plants they gathered Kjelti Anderson is a permaculture designer and educator with a fiery passion for themselves, worked hard in the Ness Creek Forest Garden – a permaculture the boreal forest and facilitating student interactions with the soil, the plants, the demonstration site – to plant a number of edible vegetables and herbs, had the trees, and the magic of how all these things come together to form our forest opportunity to swim and canoe, and bike, and also participated in a traditional home. Her education style is innovative and experiential – encouraging students pipe ceremony with a local Elder, who bestowed upon each student the title of to create their own learning experiences in a creative and safe way. custodian of Mother Earth. Each student also had a chance for solo time – where they find a quiet place to simply be in the forest. It was during this time New Canadian Lakes Loon Survey Report BCR Strategies Released Reprinted from Bird Studies Canada July 12, 2013 E-newsletter Reprinted from July 26, 2013 Bird Studies Canada E-newsletter Bird Studies Canada recently Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) (http://nabci.net/International/English/ published a report analyzing bird_conservation_regions.html) are ecologically distinct regions in North America results from our Canadian with similar bird communities, habitats, and resource management issues. BCRs Lakes Loon Survey. The were identified by North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI) (http:/ document summarizes /www.nabci.net/) partners from Canada, the U.S., and Mexico to facilitate biological patterns in Common Loon planning and conservation actions at the continental scale. These ‘ecoregions’ reproductive success across are the primary units employed for integrated bird conservation purposes. Canada between 1992 and 2010. Visit http://www.birds Through NABCI, Canada committed to developing integrated, all-species canada.org/about/media/ ecoregional bird conservation strategies to provide clear conservation objectives RlsCLLS9July2013.pdf for a and priorities for birds of concern. Recommendations from the BCR Strategies media release we issued this will support the development of guidelines and beneficial management practices week, summarizing the troubling trends revealed in our for migratory bird populations. Environment Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service Common Loons. Photo by Barry Peyton. has recently announced the completion of the first nine strategies. Select this new report. link http://nabci.net/Canada/English/bird_conservation_regions.html to read the strategies; additional strategies will continue to be posted there as they are Measured as the annual number of young produced per pair, reproductive success completed. was higher in western Canada than in the east; decreased over time; was higher on larger lakes than on smaller lakes; and increased as acidity decreased. These patterns were likely linked to mercury pollution and acid precipitation. Our findings support further action to reduce emissions of mercury and the harmful components Turning Leaves of acid precipitation. The report also demonstrates the importance of using citizen science programs to monitor wildlife as indicators of environmental stress.

Visit our website at http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/clls/resources/ Obituaries and Tributes CLLSsummary.pdf to read the full report by Dr. Doug Tozer, Myles Falconer, and Debbie Badzinski, and for information about Bird Studies Canada’s Canadian Lakes Loon Survey at http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/clls. To volunteer, Readers are welcome to submit memorials for family and friends who were you can also email Kathy Jones at [email protected]. We thank all our involved in Nature Saskatchewan or one of the Local Societies. Memorials past and current members for making this research and analysis possible. should be brief and photos are permitted.

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 12 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Are You A “Wannabe”? Then We Want You! Thinking Locally

Ken Wainwright The Nature Saskatchewan (NS) Membership Committee has been thinking recently Reprinted from Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association July 2013 Newsletter about how to strengthen ties with local and affiliate societies around the province. With that in mind, we invited presidents or representatives from all the locals and Leaving a mystery location in affiliates to join us for a face-to-face supper meeting prior to the Spring Meet in Peru, Chile or Brazil, Chimney Swift Current. It was a good opportunity to listen to local perspectives and for the Swifts start to arrive in Canada locals to share successes and challenges with one another. The group generated mid-May. This year the first pair a number of suggestions for how we could strengthen connections among locals in Manitoba was sighted south as well as with the provincial organization. of Winnipeg at St. Adolph on May 12th and the Dauphin roost saw Some of those ideas are as follows: 35-40 swifts by the 17th of May. 1. Include links to local and affiliate websites on the NS website, and likewise encourage locals with websites to post links to NS and other locals. Chimney Swifts utilize chimneys 2. Those groups who produce a newsletter are encouraged to send copies to for two reasons, for night roosts the other locals. as they migrate and ultimately 3. Post local events on the events calendar on the NS website. for nesting. Having a wingspan 4. Provide an opportunity to meet face to face once a year in conjunction with of about 12 inches, their either the Spring or Fall Meet. chimneys must be larger than this 5. Encourage locals and affiliates to submit resolutions to NS on issues of on the inside. What this means local concern. to the observer is that on the outside the chimney must be 2 A number of common themes also emerged from the discussion: 1. Several groups noted that NS had been helpful in providing speakers for Swifts diving down in the evening. Photo by ½ bricks or more per side. The local meetings, especially when the group was starting up. Any locals Ken Wainwright. chimney must have no metal liner, no cap or spark arrestor and interested in hosting a visiting speaker should contact the NS office for ultimately a clear approach free of antennae and lightning rods. The Dauphin suggestions on available resource people. roost chimney is located on an old 3 story apartment block 4 ½ bricks square 2. The importance of having an educational component in programming was with an opening just under 2 feet square projecting up above the flat roof line a common theme. Several people emphasized that the most successful about 8 feet. events are those where participants have an opportunity to learn new skills and enjoy hands-on, fun activities. By May 22 at the Dauphin roost there were 46 swifts; on the 26th there were 68; 3. Several locals have active programs for kids and some, such as the Chaplin on the 31st there were 121; on June 3rd down to 40 and by June 10th down to 22 Nature Centre, work with schools. Everyone agreed that involving more swifts. This is a typical count for a spring migration roost and it will likely go even young people at the local level was a priority. Many groups are trying to lower by mid June as the birds continue to migrate and search for a nesting provide more family-oriented programs with this goal in mind. chimney. Young swifts will emerge from a nest chimney come July, be in the 4. A number of people also emphasized the importance of building partnerships area for several days and then join the adults on the return trip to South America. in their communities to get their messages out to the public. This can By mid August, chimneys in Manitoba are again empty. Swifts are dark in colour, take many forms, from using local media to publicize events, to working sexes identical, cigar shaped body, no obvious forked tail, long wings, a flittering with like-minded groups to put on special events such as an “Enviro-Fair” flight similar to a bat and a chittering call in groups or calling to young. in Swift Current, or the recent “NatureCity” event in Saskatoon. Chaplin’s successful “Linking Communities” partnership spans 3 countries and has So do you think you’re a “Wannabe?” that is, do you “want to be” a chimney swift brought in significant funding for local school programming. observer? From the Dauphin roost, the bird count has dropped by over 100. That could represent 50 nesting pairs that have gone off to find their own chimney. As The upcoming Fall Meet offers another opportunity for sharing local concerns and you know, God’s creatures do not recognize our political boundaries so when we issues. In particular, if any local society has an issue they would like to bring to try to determine where these nesters might be, it is only logical to think some wider attention, they should consider writing a resolution for presentation at the have made the trip into Saskatchewan. If you are a “Wannabe”, scout around Fall Meet resolutions session. If anyone would like assistance in preparing a your area and locate any prospective chimneys as described above (on old schools, resolution, please contact the NS office, and a member of the Resolution apartments, churches, large houses, businesses, etc.), get a comfortable layback Committee will be glad to assist you. lawn chair and some insect repellent, maybe some binoculars as well and start scanning the sky around your suspect chimney. A good time to observe is the Share Your Skills “magic hour”, ½ hour before sunset till ½ hour after sunset. Adults with young will be going in and out of the chimney approximately every ½ hour feeding young. Do you enjoy sharing your love of nature with other people? Would you be Roosting birds will be gathering to circle a roost to swirl down just before dark. willing to speak to a local society? Lead a field trip? Build birdhouses with Cloudy skies - birds are earlier; clear skies - they are later; rainy days - they kids? Offer a nature photography workshop? might go in sometime in the afternoon (except nesters). If you do locate a swift chimney, document it and report it. On the Manitoba Chimney Swift Initiative web Whatever your interests, we’d like to hear from you. We’re compiling a list of site are forms and other information www.mbchimneyswift.ca and our blog for NS members who are available to share their expertise with local societies and other information. This May a roost site was just discovered in downtown other nature-oriented groups (e.g., Guides, Scouts, 4-H). If you’d like to be Fredericton with over 1500 birds so you never know what you might find. part of this list, please complete the form below and mail, fax, phone or email your information to the office. When we receive a request from a group, we’ll connect them with the appropriate resource people in their area. What are Native Grasslands Worth? Thanks for your interest! Reprinted from Prairie Conservation Action Plan July 2013 E-newsletter Name______Today Canada lags behind other countries in the developed world in development Address______of policy that recognizes the value native habitats provide. Funding for specific Phone______Email______environmental programs is relatively insignificant compared to those for export Areas of interest/expertise (Please check all that apply): grains. With the exception of the period following the BSE crisis in 2003, the ____birding prairie livestock industry has remained essentially unsubsidized. By not ____plant ID participating in income stabilization programs available through conversion of native ____building birdhouses/feeders prairie to cropland, livestock producers have forgone significant amounts of income ____nature photography since settlement. For example, the average cropland payout due to government ____speaking at a local society programs was estimated at about $50/acre per year in the early 1990’s (i.e. $73/ ____leading field trips at NS Meets acre in 2012 dollars). Yet, we now realize that farmers and ranchers who sustainably ____other (please specify):______manage native prairie are the stewards of much of the last remaining ecologically- ______rich places remaining in Prairie Canada and research has shown that society continues to benefit greatly from the Ecological Goods and Services that these Please return your information to: native grasslands provide. Nature Saskatchewan For the full report, visit: http://www.pcap-sk.org/docs/5_resandlit/Native_ 206-1860 Lorne St. Grassland_EGS_RSA-sm.pdf. Regina, SK S4P 2L7

Please note that the report was coordinated by the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance Phone: 306-780-9273 or 1-800-667-4668 (toll free in SK) Inc. and therefore doesn’t necessarily reflect the opinions of SK PCAP’s 34 partners. Fax: 306-780-9263 Email: [email protected] Our intent is to distribute this material for informational purposes only. Conservation Now...For The Future Page 13 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Joan Wilson – Recipient of the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal

Kathy Morell the enormous contribution of the Jowseys, two members of the YFBTA, to the study of prairie plants, but it also recognizes Joan’s perseverance in the protection Reprinted with permission with Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association of natural habitat.

Joan exhibits her commitment to the protection of prairie flora in other ways as well. Not so many years ago, Joan realized a Twayblade orchid, a plant at risk, was growing along the shore opposite the Wilson cabin at Madge Lake. She soon had the parks people involved. They came and found to their surprise that the land had already been “posted”. Joan had already staked the property and set up a sign asking people not to walk on or to mow the land in order to protect the plants.

In addition to her efforts at Madge Lake, Joan has also volunteered her expertise for the Yorkton Godfrey Dean Gallery. Joan and Paula Maier, another one of our members, were asked to weed the bed of natural plants in front of the Centre. Everyone knew the task needed the discerning eye of two experts to determine what a weed was and what a native plant was. If it needed to be done, Joan was there.

If you ask people in Saltcoats about Joan, someone might say, “Oh yes, she ran the curling program for the kids.” And indeed, she did –for thirty years.

“She’s done a lot for the school,” someone else piped up. “She taught the kids pottery. I still have the little boot Suzie made. It’s on the buffet.” And that’s not all. She taught classes in water colour and plant identification as well.

Another might add, “Oh yes, I saw her in that play. She’s quite the actor, you know.” The Laketown Players mount an annual production to raise money for the Community Hall and Joan is always a part of it all.

On April 23, 2013, Lieutenant-Governor Vaughn Solomon Schofield awarded “Those sets,” another says, “well, they take tons of time and I know she does a the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal to eight residents of the province, including lot of the painting.” long time YFBTA and Nature Saskatchewan member, Joan Wilson. Joan was recognized for her outstanding contributions in such diverse areas as “She’s really our resident artist,” another adds. “I think she had something to do the arts, health, sport and culture. Photo courtesy of Office of Provincial with that mural at the Post Office.” In fact, she had a lot to do with that mural. Secretary. She acted as the liaison between the artist and the community.

Joan Wilson is a leader whose approach is warm and welcoming, inviting “She had more to do with the mural on the Community Hall.” And that is true, too. involvement and commitment from others within her community. Typically, you She designed the mural and then involved the town in the actual painting, an would hear her say, “If it needs to be done, let’s do it. We’ll make it work.” involvement that included the grade seven and eight students from Saltcoats School. It was part of what she called developing the vibrancy of the community. This kind of scenario is typical. A supper is slated for a certain evening at the The Community Hall mural was unveiled during the visit of Princess Anne in Community Hall. The plans have been in the works for months. Two days prior to 2007. the event, it becomes apparent there will have to be a funeral lunch on the same day. Others might say it can’t be done. How can we prepare two meals at the Joan has served on any number of boards: the Organization of Saskatchewan same time? How can we share the limited space in the kitchen? How can we Arts Councils (OSAC), Lakeside Manor Care Home, the Regional Library, and find all the workers? Joan doesn’t look for the negatives. Her approach is simple: the Saltcoats Curling Club. She was chairperson when the Yorkton and District “We’ll find a way. We’ll make it work.” More than her list of many accomplishments, Home Care Board and the Sunrise Health District amalgamated. But no these words explain why Joan Wilson is a worthy recipient of the Saskatchewan commitment was greater than her eighteen years of service as a Saltcoats town Volunteer Medal. Hers is a positive approach that involves community. councilor and no task more difficult than her role as chairperson of the Board of Revision when reassessment occurred Over the past thirty years, Joan Wilson has given her time and energy to countless in 1997-98. projects in Saltcoats and Yorkton and area. Her interests have ranged from sports and arts and culture to nature programs such as the annual Symposium “I tried to be as fair as I could,” Joan for the YFBTA. But more than an enthusiastic member of a birding group, Joan continued. “There were hard feelings has developed her own expertise and knowledge of prairie plants. She attributes and some name calling. There was talk this “flowering” to the influence of Jim and Shirley Jowsey. on coffee row and at the curling rink. But I saw it through to the end,” Joan “I discovered Wildflowers across the Prairie when a new edition of the Jowsey concluded. “I wanted to help in the book was released in 1999,” Joan said. “I’d always been interested in wild flowers community healing process.” and the book gave me the incentive to search out native plants, to learn more about them.” With its beautiful photographs, clear line drawings and a reader Saltcoats voted for Joan the next time friendly text, it was just what Joan needed to pursue her interest. around, too, an indication they appreciated and approved of her work. Since that time, she has developed a broad knowledge about the plants and Joan stayed on Council for one more grasses of the prairies. She does presentations on prairie flora to various groups, term. sharing her enthusiasm, learning with others, creating community. In all her endeavours from town “Too many people fail to appreciate the true value of our native plants,” Joan councilor to resident artist, curler and noted. “We need to preserve the natural prairie or they will have no hope of plant person, Joan Wilson has focused survival.” on the involvement of community. Her approach to leadership can be summed In 2008, her commitment to the preservation of grassland was put to the test. up in her words: “If it needs to be done, Some people in the community had decided to plow up a portion of natural prairie let’s do it. We’ll make it work.” contained within the Saltcoats Regional Park in order to create a golf course. And so to you, Joan, we at the YFBTA “I was really concerned,” Joan explained. “I wrote letters. I talked to people.” It recognize your work and leadership as was a project in need of doing. Joan encouraged the YFBTA and the Saltcoats a volunteer and leader and congratulate Regional Park Board to join as partners in the establishment of the Conservation you on your award. It is truly deserved. Area, an initiative that underlines her positive and community-minded approach to finding solutions. Editors’ Note: Joan Wilson is also a long-time member of Nature The result of Joan’s advocacy was the establishment of the Dr. Jim and Shirley Saskatchewan. Jowsey Wildflower Heritage and Conservation Area. The initiative acknowledges

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 14 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Participants Now Needed for Prairie Game Bird Nature Saskatchewan Thanks These Generous Populations Survey Donors

Information from Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Press Release June Memorial and In Honour Donations: Grasslands Trust Fund (cont’d): 18, 2013 and Ministry of Environment website) General Programs Donations Heather Kleiner In Memory of Ute Bosley Beatrice Kure This article is a follow up to the article Upland Bird Survey Coming to Saskatchewan Patricia Betker April Thomas on page 12 of the Summer 2013 issue of Nature Views (the Editors). Monette Bouvier Calvin and Mary Carter Last Mountain Bird Observatory: Saskatchewan is moving Marilyn and Michael Fahlman Violet Budd forward in efforts to monitor its Sharon and Frank Kerr Peter Carton upland game bird population. Andrea Kotylak Brenda Dale Dianne Lipon Marilyn Meyer The seven species to be Elanor Porth (Saskatchewan Appaloosa Diether Peschken monitored in the review are the Horse Club Inc.) Ramsay and Marjorie Ross Gray Partridge, Ring-necked Terry and Marjorie Thiessen Claire Thorseth Pheasant, Ruffed Grouse, Annika Weeks Spruce Grouse, Willow In Memory of Mrs. Edna Parsons Ptarmigan, Rock Ptarmigan, Anonymous (General Programs) Nature Legacy Fund: and Saskatchewan’s provincial Tom Cummins bird, the Sharp-tailed Grouse. In Honour of Doug Dale and Kim Bill and Audrey MacKenzie Phillips Wedding Lauren Mang There has been little research Brenda Dale (donation to Grasslands Marilyn Meyer conducted on game bird Trust Fund) populations in Saskatchewan Bird Species at Risk Program: during the past decade, aside Nature Saskatchewan General Joseph and Sylvia Chorney from anecdotal reports. Programs: Inside Education Sharp-tailed Grouse. Photo by Gary Seib. Nancy Allan Robert Moroz “Upland game birds are an important part of the Saskatchewan ecosystem and it Alma Bricker Lynne Reeve is time we understood more about their populations in order to make better- Donna Bruce David Stirling informed wildlife management decisions to ensure our environment is healthy Shelly Fisher and that our resources are protected for future generations,” Environment Minister Merle Harth Nature Savings Plan Contributors: Ken Cheveldayoff said. Scott Henders Keith Bell Margaret Keith Lori Caron “The cornerstone of a science-based wildlife management model is comprehensive Erich R. Kerber Kristin Catherwood data,” Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation President David Pezderic said. “lt begins M. Ross Lein Joseph and Sylvia Chorney with baseline and comparative information on species populations. The Brenda Lepitzki Louise and Dave Cook Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation strongly supports these efforts and encourages Thelma Lissel Dr. Yvonne G. Cuttle all our members to participate in this program.” Timothy Long Rev. Suzanne Edgar Bill and Audrey MacKenzie Gwen Gordon Hunters, stock growers, landowners, birders, interested groups and individuals Lauren Mang Christina Havard are invited to participate in the Saskatchewan Upland Game Bird Survey. Each Bob McNaughton Jocelyn Hextall time an individual or group of the specified birds is observed, participants are William Monro Ina Hill encouraged to fill out and submit the form that can be accessed at Dale Nostbakken Gary Howland www.environment.gov.sk.ca/gamebirdsurvey. John Parker A.R. Iverson Diether Peschken Johanna and Ken Jensen For those that observe birds at the same location regularly, we would also appreciate J. Frank Roy Ron and Julie Jensen continued observations of the same individual or group of upland game birds Diane Secoy Smith Ken Kingdon throughout the year, in order to assess a variety of population metrics. As a Lisa Smith Tom Lawton general guideline, one observation per season would allow us to determine breeding T.W. Stewart Robert J. Long status, reproductive productivity, and survival throughout the year. TD Friends of the Environment Deena McNichol Foundation Alison Philips Hunters’ observations are valuable and we would appreciate observations from Rob and Joan Wilson RBC Dominion Securities your hunts as well, although please record the number of individuals observed Doreen Yurkoski Julianna M. Robin following the hunt, not prior to it. Lyle Saigeon Margaret Skeel Graduate Candace Savage All observations from this survey will be used solely for the purpose of conservation Scholarship Fund: Danna Schock and management of these species and the locations will not be shared publicly, Margaret Skeel Margaret Skeel in an effort to ensure birds are not overly disturbed and favorite hunting spots Hellen Taylor remain private. The results of the survey will assist the ministry in developing a Grasslands Trust Fund: Hendrik Vanderpol management plan for upland game birds in Saskatchewan. Hugo Cota-Sanchez Guy Wapple Brenda Dale Pattie Wilkinson “Monitoring is a valuable tool for assessing the impact of changes in weather, Johane Janelle habitat and the normal fluctuations in species,” Cheveldayoff said. “This is a good example of our shift to a results-based approach that ensures that the ministry is able to balance environmental protection with promoting the sustainable use of natural resources.” Nature Saskatchewan Thanks These Volunteers

More information about the Ministry of Environment surveys can be viewed at Last Mountain Bird Observatory http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/wildlife. Bert Dalziel Shelly Fisher For more information, contact; Jamie Harden Kathryn Newton, Environment, Regina, Phone: 306-787-0412 Dale Jefferson Brenda Kramarchuk Jordan Rustad

Important Bird Areas Lori Wilson Important Bird Area Caretakers

Stewards of Saskatchewan Thank you to Brian Jeffery for his help on the Stewards of Saskatchewan census mail-out.

Spring Meet Thank you to Fraser Hunter for helping with Spring Meet preparations and to Rob Warnock for helping with set up at the Spring Meet.

Conservation Now...For The Future Page 15 Fall 2013 Nature Views

University of Saskatchewan Centre for Continuing Saskatoon Nature Society to Launch Kids in and Distance Education Tour Nature Program in 2014 Peru and Galapagos Islands November 10 to 30, Joan Feather, President, Saskatoon Nature Society 2013 Reprinted from Saskatoon Nature Society July 2013 Newsletter

Hola mes amigos! Here’s the info for this fabulous trip - 21 days. I am very pleased to announce a new initiative by Saskatoon Nature Society to support programs aimed at getting kids outdoors into nature. Our journey begins in Saskatoon with an early flight, Calgary, Houston then Lima, Peru. After an historic city tour with some free time we fly to Cusco to Too many children lack contact with the natural world. Television, computers, begin our journey through the Sacred Valley. There we visit the towns of Urubamba, the internet, electronic games, the busy schedules of working parents and organized Pisac, Chinchero, Moray and Maras. In Ollantaytambo we board the Vistadome sports—all have combined to produce a generation of children losing contact train to Aguas Calliente (Hot Water baths) before departing for the sacred Inca with nature. Richard Louv, in his eloquent and provocative book Last Child in the site of Machu Picchu. After returning to Cusco we will travel on to Lake Titicaca Woods, coined the term “nature deficit disorder” to describe the human costs of with a fast boat cruise learning about history, traditions and agricultural methods alienation from nature: diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and of these unique floating reed islands. We’ll return to Lima to continue on to Quito higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. From our perspective as Ecuador, then The Galapagos Islands. We hike daily and visit the islands of naturalists and conservationists, we also have to wonder where future stewards Santa Cruz, Isabela, Santiago, Rabida, Bartolome and North Seymour. After of nature will be found if we fail to reconnect children with nature and outdoor hiking we’ll snorkel from the beaches or boat with sea lions, marine iguanas, play. So much has changed since we were kids. Children today know more sharks, rays and Galapagos penguins! Snorkel equipment included. about the global threats to the environment but have less opportunity to learn about nature from intimate, physical contact with spaces and species close at Fees: Peru only $2985 plus flight ($1175) No GST hand. Ecuador and Galapagos Islands only $3928 plus flight ($1300) No GST Or both: $7301 plus flight ($1200) No GST Fortunately there are outdoor educators, teachers and recreation leaders who offer programs designed to counteract this trend. But as fast as their programs The fee is payable to U of S registration @ 306-966-5539 are announced, they are full and there’s a waiting list. Some teachers in our The flights should be booked with Ruth @ World wide Ecolodges 1-888-778- school systems find ways to get students out into nature, but there are not 2378 [email protected]. enough such opportunities to reach all children—inner city and suburban, Canadian born and newcomers.

We think more can and must be done to reconnect kids with nature. For that reason we have taken steps to establish a grant program we’re calling “Kids in Nature” to strengthen existing programs and encourage new initiatives. Starting in 2014, we will annually draw $2,000 from our Conservation and Education Fund, and aim to at least match that with donations specifically earmarked for the SNS Kids in Nature Program. Each spring we will invite applications from existing or new programs, and select one or more for financial support. More details about this grant process will be announced in the fall.

Meanwhile, if you share our concern for reconnecting kids with the natural world, for the sake of their physical and mental health as well as the future stewardship of our precious natural heritage, we invite you to make a donation to Saskatoon Nature Society, specifically for the Kids in Nature Program. All donations are eligible for a receipt for tax purposes. The Fund has already started to grow! I hope you will join in support of this investment in healthy kids as tomorrow’s naturalists.

Nature Regina Field Trips

Please note: Field trips could be cancelled or postponed due to bad weather; if you are in doubt as to whether a field trip will go ahead or not, please call Lauren at 584-1171. We encourage carpooling on field trips. There is no charge other than to share gasoline costs. Estimated share of gas is assuming four people per vehicle; please confirm with your driver. (Note: RSM is the Royal Saskatchewan Musuem at the corner of Albert Street and College Avenue in Regina. All Nature Regina events are scent-free events)

Saturday, August 24: Fall Songbirds in Wascana We will look for wood warblers, vireos, thrushes, and lots of other “little brown birds” passing through in their fall migration. We will start in the Legislative grounds and then drive over to Goosehill Park and/or Faraway Place. Time: 8:15 a.m. - noon Saskatchewan to get tough on illegal drainage Meet at the parking area in front of the Legislative Building

Reprinted from The Western Producer - Karen Briere May 23, 2013 via June 2013 Sunday, September 8: Hidden Valley Picnic Prairie Conservation Action Plan E-newsletter Our annual president’s picnic gives members an opportunity to meet socially and to explore our sanctuary in the Qu’Appelle Valley northeast of Craven. We The Saskatchewan government is working on legislation to crack down on illegal will see whatever fall birds may be there along with the last of summer’s flowers drainage. Ken Cheveldayoff, Minister responsible for the Water Security Agency, in the sanctuary’s coulees and prairie. Bring a picnic supper, water, and insect said consultation will take place this summer and fall, online and through meetings repellent. Share of gas average $2. with associations and individuals. He said the number of complaints since the Leader: Dale Hjertaas flooding of 2010 and 2011 has put a strain on the agency and its staff. Time: 2:30 p.m. - late afternoon Meet at the RSM parking lot at 1:45 p.m. or at Hidden Valley parking lot at 2:30 There were 364 complaints in 2011 and 2012, mostly neighbours complaining p.m. about neighbours. Of those, 331 were resolved with the WSA acting as a mediator, although 12 could not be settled and resulted in orders for the works to be closed. Saturday, September 14: Searching the Sloughs Thirty-three complaints are still outstanding. We’ll visit Monica Slough, Cement Plant Slough, Condie Nature Refuge, and Brown’s Slough, searching for ducks, geese, shorebirds, gulls, and various migrant To read the entire article, click here: http://issuu.com/westernproducer/docs/ songbirds. We will also watch for hawks and other birds of interest. Bring a 20130523/5?e=3157973/2611292 spotting scope if you have one. Share of gas average $3. Time: 8:30 a.m. - noon Meet at the RSM parking lot

The Voice of Nature for Saskatchewan Page 16 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Upcoming Events

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips

All are welcome to participate in field trips; bring your friends. Carpooling for out- Saturday, September 7 of-town trips is usually arranged at the meeting place. Participants are expected Fall Bird Count to share gasoline costs and should make arrangements with the driver to do so. Join one of our groups to survey the Saskatoon District. Novice birders will be Unless indicated, there is no other charge. Phone the trip leader if you have any assigned to an experienced leader. Phone Michael Williams (306-242-5383) by questions. Participants are free to depart early if they wish. Members with CB September 5 for assignment to a group. radios or FRS radios should bring them on out-of-town trips. Check our website at www.saskatoonnaturesociety.sk.ca for last minute changes or cancellations. Sunday, September 15 The website also contains a checklist of Saskatoon area birds for downloading. Fall Picnic and Birding at Blackstrap Lake We will drive around the lake looking for birds and have a picnic supper in the Saturday, August 24 park. Birding St. Volodymyr Property at Brown’s Lake 2:00 PM–7:00 PM Bring a lunch. Please bring an entry fee of $3 per person for access to the Meet at the NW corner of the parking lot for the Centre at Circle and 8th. property. Leaders: Dave & Louise Cook (306-955-4764) 8:00 AM–1:00 PM Meet at the intersection of Crerar Drive and Caen Street in Montgomery Place. Young Naturalists Leader: Frank Roy (306-374-8571) The Young Naturalists is all about nature activities for kids and their families. Sunday, August 25 Each program offers interesting activities geared for children aged 5 to 11 years. Forestry Farm Bird Walk Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Enrolment is limited on We will explore this park looking for fall migrants. most programs, so register early. To register or for more information, call 306- 8:00 AM–11:00 AM 975-3042 or e-mail [email protected]. Visit the Young Meet at the parking lot by the fishing pond. The entrance fee is $2 per car Naturalists’ website for more information. (bicycles are free). Leader: May Haga (306-955-3954) Young Naturalists’ Grasslands Hike Friday, August 23, 1:00 PM Monday, September 2 A nature walk on the habitat around Saskatoon’s Northeast Swale. Call or email Last Mountain Lake Sanctuary Visit for more information or to register. Meet at the Northeast Swale (map included We will arrange carpools to drive to the north end of Last Mountain Lake to look with your registration). for fall migrants. Cost: Free (advanced registration required) Bring lunch and supper. Phone the leader on September 1 for final instructions. 7:00 AM–10:00 PM Meet at the NW corner of the parking lot for the Centre at Circle and 8th. Leader: Ron Jensen (306-665-8248)

Wildbird Tours The Annual Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Western Canada’s Birding Company since 1995. Interpretive Centre Fundraising Dinner New Birdwatching trips for 2014 Saturday, November 2, 2013 Colombia - 3 weeks with Fabrice Schmitt April Panama - 2 weeks with Alfredo Scott in February Annual Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre fundraising dinner Call Joe Crichton – 250-468-1728, will be held Saturday, November 2, 2013. Mark the date on your calendar and [email protected] further details will be announced closer to the event date. For more information, www.wildbirdtours.ca please call 306- 692-8710 in Moose Jaw or e-mail [email protected].

o Yes, I want to become a member of Nature Saskatchewan. Membership Fee $ ______I wish to make a tax-deductible donation to Nature Saskatchewan to support: o Please renew my membership o Operation Burrowing Owl $______o Grasslands Trust Fund $______o Last Mountain Bird Observatory $______Name: ______o Nature Legacy Fund $______Address: ______o Margaret Skeel Graduate Student Scholarship Fund $______City/ Town: ______o General Society Programs $ ______Province: ______Postal Code: ______TOTAL PAYMENT $______Phone: ______Email: ______Occupation/ Interests: ______I would like to pay by: o Cheque/money order o Visa o Mastercard Category One Year Three Year Five Year (Please make cheques payable to Nature Saskatchewan) Individual o $ 25 o $ 65 o $ 95 Income Tax receipts available for donations over $10.00. Family o $ 30 o $ 75 o $115 Card Number: ______Student o $ 15 Senior >64 o $ 20 o $ 50 o $ 75 Card Name: ______Foreign o $ 30 o $ 75 o $ 115 Institutional o $ 30 Signature: ______Expiry Date: ______Life o $ 600 Fall 2013 Nature Views

Nature Saskatchewan’s Website www.naturesask.ca

Humanity in Harmony with Nature