ANNUAL REPORT | 2019/2020 Looking at tomorrow. Giving back today. CPAWS Southern acknowledges that they work in the traditional territories of the Siksikaitsitapi (), comprised of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, and Amskapi Piikani First Nations; the Tsuut’ina First Nation; the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations; the Ktunaxa Nation; and the Métis Nation of Alberta. Today, is home to Indigenous people from all over North America. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society Contents (CPAWS) is ’s voice for wilderness. We are a non-profit Letters from the executive environmental organization 4 director and board chair working to protect half of Canada’s public land and water. Learn about who we are, our Since 1967, CPAWS Southern 6 history, and our people Alberta has led conservation efforts to protect areas in Banff Our work in southern Alberta National Park, Kananaskis, the 10 Whaleback and the Castle.

Our chapter is a leader in Albertans mobilize to defend environmental education 12 Alberta parks offering award-winning

programs to help build the next Fighting for the life of southwest generation of environmental 14 Alberta’s Rockies stewards.

We’re hooked on native trout: A Canadian Parks and Wilderness 16 spotlight on Alberta’s native fish Society Southern Alberta

Chapter Take action today! 17 c/o Canada Olympic Park 88 Canada Olympic Road SW Inspiring Alberta’s future Calgary, AB T3B 5R5 18 environmental stewards www.cpaws-southernalberta.org Because here is home: Alberta’s Email: [email protected] 20 most underrated ecosystem shines Tel: 403-232-6686 PM Agreement: 40043929 Small actions making a big impact: 22 Youth are incredible change makers

Get involved with CPAWS Southern 24 Alberta Cover Photo: Christopher 26 Financial statements Landry Inside Cover Photo: Rebecca FREE defend Alberta parks Schortinghuis 27 poster! What are we fighting for?

Brad Clute, Executive Director

I would like to take this opportunity “So then we need to ask CPAWS Southern Alberta is a unique to introduce myself as the new ourselves — will our organization within the environmental Executive Director of the Canadian children and their children non-profit community, one that Parks and Wilderness Society — be able to benefit from the is able to meet both our present Southern Alberta Chapter. I’m thrilled landscapes we value now? challenges and opportunities, while be part of an organization with such Will they have the same working towards a more resilient and a solid track record of science-based access to clean air and healthy future. drinking water? Will they conservation work, and award- be able to enjoy our parks winning education programs. Our conservation team is working and wilderness the same Joining CPAWS was an easy decision way we do?” to ensure that wild areas and public to make, as organizations like CPAWS lands maintain their ecological value, help build healthy communities. We all know and understand that established protected areas are well the impacts of the decisions we managed, and that the creation of After a career of more than 20 make today will be felt by future new protected areas is a priority. years in the outdoor recreation generations. So then we need to ask industry, focusing on community ourselves — will our children and their Our education team is working to investment and sustainable business children be able to benefit from the build generations of environmentally development, I’ve seen first-hand landscapes we value now? Will they literate and engaged citizens through how the bottom line and supply have the same access to clean air curriculum approved, hands-on chains are dependent on the health and drinking water? Will they be able environmental education programs of our environment, and how reliant to enjoy our parks and wilderness in both in the classroom and in the field. businesses and communities are on the same way we do? Whether it’s healthy ecosystems. Any forward- due to overuse, poor management, Both conservation and education thinking business strategist who’s or bad policy, if our children and their programs play a key role in creating focused on long-term sustainability children won’t be able to experience a thriving, healthy and resilient future will tell you how important it is to and benefit from our landscapes the for Alberta. So we ask you today to understand what is truly needed same way we do today, do the same help us build a thriving, healthy, and for sustained wellbeing. We all rely things in the same places, and see, resilient future. With you as part on Alberta’s natural heritage, and smell, and hear the same things — of the CPAWS community we can the work CPAWS does is crucially then we have a problem. work together to give back to nature important to both present and future now, so that we can move forward. Albertans. With both conservation and Together, we can build the future that education teams under one roof, Alberta needs.

Page 4 Moving forward, together Phil Nykyforuk, Board Chair

Our Board of Directors is a group times over the past year. Survey areas. Unfortunately, the current of dedicated volunteers with varied after survey indicates that Albertans nature of public debate is to vilify backgrounds. Our experience includes cherish and use our provincial parks those that express disagreement. science, education, journalism, and protected areas more than Conservation groups have been marketing and communications, any other Canadians. This has been characterized as anti-Albertan, organizational planning, law, particularly noticeable since the start left-wing radicals who want to harm accounting and national parks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Albertans our economy. With respect to our management. Despite our varied have turned to the outdoors in chapter, nothing could be further backgrounds, each board member massive numbers to walk, hike, cycle, from the truth. Our chapter and board has a shared belief in three fish, paddle, camp, and recreate in are non-partisan and include people foundational principles. a variety of ways. Despite all the of all political leanings. We respect uncertainty in our world, the peace, different perspectives. We believe in First, we all believe that Alberta is a beauty, and restorative capacity of rational decision making based on wonderful place to live, with many nature has brought comfort to huge science. We believe in consultation spectacular natural wonders. We numbers of Albertans. and collaboration with all levels of are proud to call Alberta home. government, industry, Indigenous Second, we see a need for vigilance Ironically, as more Albertans than people, and stakeholder groups. and advocacy in ensuring that our ever have been getting out into our parks, protected areas and natural parks, our provincial government is We are proud Albertans with deep landscapes are properly valued and proposing unprecedented cuts to roots here. We want our province and managed on behalf of all Albertans our world class network of parks economy to succeed. by our government. Third, we believe and protected areas (see page 12). in the importance of educating At the same time, a 44-year-old As the board looks ahead, we Albertans, especially our children government policy prohibiting open take pride in our chapter’s many and new residents, about our natural pit coal mines in sensitive areas achievements in conservation landscapes and conservation issues. on the front ranges of our Rocky and education. We have played an Mountains was rescinded (see page important role in protecting some of In our capacity as board members, 14). Proposals for new mines in these Alberta’s most treasured landscapes. we provide guidance and oversight to areas are being encouraged. All of We are not, however, stuck in our talented and hard working staff. this has been done without any public the past. We are forward-facing In addition to the board’s strategic consultation. and ready to deal with the many planning and oversight, many of our challenges of today and in the future. directors volunteer on behalf of our A core part of our chapter’s mandate The importance of conservation chapter in countless other ways. is to be a strong voice for Alberta’s and our province’s special parks and We have been operating in unusual wilderness, parks, and protected protected areas demand no less.

Page 5 When nature thrives, we thrive As Albertans, we love and value the natural beauty that surrounds us. But how do we give back to nature? By investing in Alberta’s landscape, we can ensure healthy ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and beautiful moments for generations to come.

We have an important job to do. We all play an important role in protecting our parks, natural spaces, and biodiversity. From everyday actions like turning off your lights to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to having a meeting with your MLA to discuss why parks and wild spaces are important to you. You CAN make a difference. Because when nature thrives, we thrive.

Page 6 Photo: Les Piccolo What we do

Here at CPAWS Southern Alberta, nature is our priority. Thriving ecosystems support biodiversity, provide natural solutions for climate change impacts, and promote a healthy, wild Alberta. Not only do healthy ecosystems benefit our landscape, but they benefit us. They provide us with clean water, support our communities and economy, supply us with food, protect us from natural disasters, and allow us to recreate and enjoy Alberta’s landscape.

Now is the time to give back. By protecting these special places, we can make sure they are functioning, resilient, and diverse. Join CPAWS Southern Alberta in celebrating these landscapes, and taking action to protect them.

See page 24 for more information on how you can get involved.

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Page 7 Even if you’re new to learning about CPAWS, you’ve likely seen our work throughout southern Alberta. Here are some of our major wins:

1967 The first chapter of the National and Provincial Parks Association of Canada, now CPAWS, 1995 established in Calgary. Led efforts to create the now world-famous wildlife crossing 1997 structures in Banff National Launch of our environmental Park. education programs for youth. 2000 Protected the Spray Valley from a major resort development; 2004 Spray Valley Provincial Park was Action Challenge was started to established. engage youth in eco-action. 2010 Grizzly bears listed as threatened species under the 2012 Alberta Wildlife Act. Logging in the Castle wilderness suspended. 2014 Influenced the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan. 2015 This increased protection of the Rocky Mountain eastern slopes. Environmental education program reached the 100,000ˆstudent milestone. 2016 Expanded our outdoor education programs to include 2017 snowshoe hikes in winter Castle Provincial Park was ecosystems. created, and the Castle Wildland Provincial Park was expanded. 2018 Management plans released for Porcupine Hills-Livingstone 2020 regions, with broad stakeholder support and placing limits on Engaged 5,000 new Canadians roads and trails to protect through our education wildlife. programs. Page 8 Our people We would like to give a warm welcome to our newest board members Lana Mezquita, Kirsty Mackenzie, and James Early as invaluable additions to our dedicated and hardworking board team: Phil Nykyforuk, Jim Donohue, Doug Firby, Ross Glenfield, Jeff Goldberg, Jon Mee, and Cinthia Nemoto.

A huge thank you to everyone in the CPAWS Southern Alberta community, including our staff (below), dedicated volunteers, and enthusiastic supporters!

Brad Clute | Sarah Elmeligi | Executive Director National Parks Bonnie Glines | Coordinator Office and Fund Katie Morrison | Program Conservation Director Administrator

Sheri Tarrington | Environmental Educator Jaclyn Angotti | Education Director Sabrina Ryans | Environmental Becky Best-Bertwistle | Educator Brooke Kapeller | Conservation Engagement Conservation Coordinator Program Vanessa Bilan | Coordinator Environmental Educator

Hira Shah | Communications Coordinator Justin Howse | Hiking Guide

Lisa Coyne | Alex Mowat | Julie Walker | Hiking Guide & Hiking Guide Hiking Guide CWSP Coordinator

Page 9 How we protect southern Alberta’s landscape

Healthy wildlife populations Protecting provincial parks From the rolling grasslands to frigid and fast The Government of Alberta has proposed the mountain streams, Alberta is home to a huge removal of 175 parks and provincial recreation diversity of wildlife. We are working to increase areas from the provincial park system, which could knowledge about Alberta’s species at risk, including be closed, sold, or opened up to industrial uses. native trout, like westslope cutthroat and bull We have been working to amplify the voices of trout, and their habitats, to encourage Albertans to concerned Albertans and urge the government to celebrate these ecologically important species. reverse this decision. What we’re aiming for: What we’re aiming for: Healthy landscapes, water and riparian areas, as Alberta parks are protected and public for all indicated by thriving native trout populations, Albertans and visitors. supporting wildlife across the province.

Safeguarding national parks Defending the eastern slopes The Rocky Mountain National Parks are renewing We are working with community groups in their management plans for the next 10 years. This southwest Alberta to fight against a series of means that YOU hold the power to influence what coal mine projects in the region covering over Banff and Jasper National Parks will look like from 50,000 hectares of landscape. The area, previously 2020-2030. We want to ensure that these plans protected by the 1976 Coal Policy, provides clean limit overcrowding and harmful development, and water for local communities, and unique and promote effective management of the parks. essential habitat for flora and fauna species. What we’re aiming for: What we’re aiming for: The Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks are the global No new coal mine development in southwest model for conservation, community sustainability, Alberta to maintain watershed health, key habitat education, and stewardship. for wildlife, and prevent climate change impacts.

Page 10 your actions positive change cpaws

Forests for everyone Environmental education Alberta’s forests are an important place for We believe that conservation and education our water, wildlife, and communities. We are go hand in hand. In order to inspire the future working to make sure these values are prioritized stewards of our province, they must first and management decisions are helping local understand what makes Alberta’s landscape communities to become more involved in forest so special. Our award-winning environmental management. Together we can ensure the long- education programs have been delivered to term sustainability of Alberta’s forests. Calgary and surrounding areas since 1997, reaching What we’re aiming for: over 148,000 Albertans. We vary our activities to allow effective learning for everyone, from in-class Ecosystem and community-minded management programs to hands-on outdoor activities, such implemented in Alberta’s forests. as guided hikes and snowshoeing. Through our Action Challenge, we encourage Albertans to take everyday actions to help fight for nature.

This year we introduced three new programs to our suite of hands-on programs for youth and adults: Why Grasslands?, Energize, and Climate Game Changers.

Proper land-use planning We also created Bring Nature Home this year which There is a need for stronger land-use planning takes our favourite activities and games from our in southern Alberta. We are working to ensure programs for you to access at home! the commitments of the South Saskatchewan What we’re aiming for: Regional Plan are fulfilled through specific land- Through education, appreciation, and personal use plans that protect biodiversity, manage human experiences, all Albertans value and respect our disturbance, and provide sustainable recreation parks and wilderness areas. opportunities. What we’re aiming for: For more information on our programs and all the ways Land-use plans in southern Alberta prioritize that we help to protect southern Alberta, head over to headwaters, wildlife, and low-impact recreation. our website at www.cpaws-southernalberta.org

Photo: Murray Robertson Albertans mobilize to defend Alberta parks By Becky Best-Bertwistle, CPAWS Southern Alberta Photo: Matt Bozec Conservation Engagement Coordinator

If you love Alberta’s environment and the nature with their families for decades. From the badlands outdoors, it would have been impossible to to Peace River, no area of the province was left unaffected miss the government’s announcement and by these changes. the public reaction to the drastic cuts to the province’s parks system. While concerned Albertans were told that the cuts and closures were a result of under usage and in the interest This spring, while many Albertans were turning to the of fiscal responsibility, we have since learned through a outdoors to deal with the stress of social isolation Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act in our new COVID-19 reality, the Government of (FOIP) request that these factors had little to do with Alberta announced a plan to close, privatize and delist the decision. Internal communications regarding the approximately 175 provincial parks, provincial recreation cuts revealed that financial impacts of the decision were areas and natural areas across the province. unknown and the Minister of Environment and Parks was even warned that the plan could end up costing the The sheer number of parks that would be affected is government money. The documents also did not contain significant — nearly 40% of all of Alberta parks including any visitation statistics to justify the statement that these more than three quarters of our provincial recreation parks are underused. areas. While many of these parks are smaller day-use areas, staging areas and campgrounds, they are places We also learned that despite advice from Alberta that have helped Albertans to safely and responsibly enjoy Environment and Parks, the Minister chose not to conduct any public participation regarding this plan. This represents a worrying trend to exclude Albertans from decision-making processes on parks and public lands.

The public outcry that has followed this announcement has confirmed what we always have known: Albertans across the political spectrum and from around the province love parks and value the conservation and outdoor opportunities they provide.

Page 12 We have seen folks across the province coming together to stand in opposition to these cuts.

Even at the very height of the pandemic the fact that Albertans continue to fight for parks confirms how important they are to our daily lives. Working closely with our Northern Alberta chapter, we had hundreds of people join us online for townhalls, stage protests on social media, and, most importantly, write and call their MLAs. This did make an impact. In June, the government quietly announced that 17 parks previously slated for immediate closure would be kept open for the 2020 season. Still, there is much to do to ensure that the entire plan is permanently reversed. It is crucial that the government heeds the calls of park-loving Albertans everywhere and keeps parks open, public, and protected for all.

Head over to page 17 to learn how you can take action.

“Albertans across the political spectrum and from around the province love parks and value the conservation and outdoor opportunities they provide.”

Albertans sent letters using the CPAWS letter writing tool to the Government of , Alberta opposing this decision

communities, towns, and cities where Albertans have shown their love for Alberta parks

Albertans oppose the removal of these parks, according to a public opinion survey

Participants in our virtual town halls Page 13 Fighting for the life of the southwest Alberta Rockies

A series of industrial coal projects are threatening the environment and a way of life in southwest Alberta. By the CPAWS Conservation Team

Forty-four years of refuge, and bounty for generations. While metallurgical coal enjoys a more protection dissolved The region is no stranger to land- positive reputation than the thermal use conflict and controversy, but variety, the mining, transporting The cancellation of the provincial Coal the latest set of industrial projects and burning of metallurgic coal is Policy in June 2020, which had been proposed for the region has the incredibly carbon intensive. For in place since 1976, removed land potential to change its face and every tonne of steel produced from zoning that restricted open-pit coal very nature irrevocably. While the metallurgical coal, two tonnes of mining and coal exploration in some 1976 Coal Policy was created with greenhouse gases are generated. of Alberta’s most environmentally extensive public consultation, it was Approving these projects will fly sensitive areas along the Rocky cancelled without any consultation in the face of any national and Mountains. This opened up the and no sufficient policy replacement international climate targets we hope floodgates to coal exploration drilling was offered. to achieve as a country. and mine development. In Alberta, a total of 1.5 million hectares of The overwhelming risks of headwaters, forests, and foothills coal mines grasslands, previously off-limits to coal mining, are now open for Four Australian-owned coal mountaintop removal coal mines. mining companies are conducting These areas provide drinking water to exploratory drilling and planning for mountaintop removal coal mines in downstream communities in southern Elk Valley after mining Alberta, including the Livingstone the Livingstone region. If approved, region of the Oldman Watershed. these mines could blanket the These open-pit mining operations landscape between Kananaskis and will also displace wildlife, contaminate This region in southwest Alberta Castle Parks with a series of 40-50 water, and jeopardize human provides many invaluable ecological kilometre long swaths of industrial health. Native fish that are listed as and social benefits. It is the water destruction. Despite coal lobbyists threatened on a federal scale, such source for the prairie’s cities, towns and politicians trying to convince as the westslope cutthroat trout and agricultural industry. It provides Albertans that these mines would and bull trout, inhabit many areas essential habitats for many iconic be both “clean” and “ethical”, the within and downstream the proposed species of wildlife and plants. The area environmental consequences will be mines. Due to Tech Resource’s Elk has provided unsurpassed beauty, anything but. Valley operations in BC, local trout

Page 14 populations downstream have world and with other similar volatile experts to critique the science, dropped by over 90%. Deformities of commodities in Alberta, as illustrated conclusions, and mitigations in fish in this watershed due to selenium by the fallout of orphaned and the company’s Environmental pollution are common, with no abandoned wells. Assessment, define the clear successful mitigation tactics. If these environmental risks, and propose coal mine projects are approved, the CPAWS Southern Alberta has better assessment approaches or effects are expected to impact the partnered with ranchers and mitigations. If the Grassy Mountain Oldman River drainage indefinitely. landowners, including the Livingstone project is approved, it signals to the Landowner Group, and is working other companies that governments Albertans will be left to pay closely with recreation organizations, consider coal mining an appropriate businesses, outfitters, scientists, use of this landscape and makes it Volatile prices, international market concerned citizens, and other more likely that their projects will uncertainty, and the continued conservation groups to protect move forward. Simply put, the Grassy automation of this industry means our Rocky Mountains and foothills Mountain project is the first domino that these projects are not the sure- from the flood of coal exploration in a line of potential coal mines fire job creators and job sustainers and development. We are working that could change our province’s they once were. With the raw coal together to raise awareness of the headwaters forever. being exported overseas, most of the impacts and how together we can projected economic value will flow protect these special places. All Albertans have an interest in the out of Canada. All the while, existing healthy streams and landscapes we and growing sustainable economies There’s still time to act rely on for our well-being. In fact, are undermined, including negatively and protect these unique anybody who cares about coal’s impacting the livelihoods of ranchers, landscapes contribution to the climate crisis has outfitters, the outdoor recreation a stake in this issue. You can take industry, and other land users. The first of these coal mine projects, action to help give our mountain Grassy Mountain, will be going headwaters a sustainable future free Looking further down the road, one to a hearing in fall 2020 where a from massive mines. Reach out to can anticipate the massive public regulatory panel will recommend your elected officials to let them know liability that these projects represent. whether it should be approved and that our iconic landscapes, water Once markets or prices drop and under what conditions. CPAWS security, and native trout streams companies can no longer make a Southern Alberta is working closely should not be destroyed to line the profit, Albertans could be left with with the Public Interest Law Clinic pockets of a few foreign investors. the bill to clean up environmental and has formal intervenor status to damage. We have seen this with recommend that Grassy Mountain Head over to page 17 to learn many other coal mines around the not be approved. We are engaging how you can take action. Page 15 We’re hooked on native trout By Katie Morrison, Conservation Director

But why trout? native trout species have experienced of the species. We also continue to drastic declines in recent years and monitor the implementation of the While species like the are listed as threatened provincially Recovery Strategy for westslope get a lot of attention, fewer people and under the federal Species at cutthroat trout and contribute to think of the importance of less furry Risk Act. Recent provincial policy recovery efforts. (but certainly not less cute) species, changes put these fish even further like trout. Bull trout, westslope at risk. The rescission of Alberta’s As part of the Native Trout cutthroat trout, Athabasca rainbow Coal Policy greatly increases the risk Collaborative, CPAWS Southern trout, and other fish species like the of habitat loss and water pollution Alberta is working with Trout Arctic grayling, are an integral part of from both coal exploration and Unlimited Canada, Cows and Fish, Alberta’s ecosystem. mine development activities (see Alberta Conservation Association, page 14). Attempts by the provincial Foothills Research Institute, and These fish have inhabited the cold government to reverse land-use Alberta Environment and Parks streams and lakes of western Alberta planning in southwest Alberta and to mitigate threats and promote since the last ice age, approximately expand motorized access in the recovery of native trout in the 13,000 years ago. These native Castle Parks and Oldman River province. Raising awareness, fostering species not only contribute to headwaters, could continue damaging community, and encouraging action Alberta’s biodiversity, but act as their sensitive habitats. Announced will lead the path to government, indicators of the health of our increases in allowable timber volume industry, and land and water users watersheds and quality of water for extraction could place additional motivated to create positive change human use. Having these species pressure on watersheds already for native trout. thrive into the future also ensures a highly impacted by forestry activities. healthy environment for people and Finally, given the species’ cold water Swimming forward other wildlife. habitat, native trout are especially vulnerable to climate change. We can all be part of that change. Follow us in our journey to explore Steps for recovery and learn about our beautiful native fish, how to recreate responsibly to This may sound dire, and it is, but decrease impacts on trout, and let there are glimmers of hope for governments know that land-uses Photo: Westslope our fishy friends. CPAWS recently including recreation and industry cutthroat trout, Marc Fossi provided input into the federal must protect and restore trout Unfortunately, there’s bad news Recovery Strategies for bull trout habitats. Because if native trout are for these fish, and for the land and and Athabasca rainbow trout which, the report card on healthy lands and water health they represent. All three if implemented, could help recovery waters, we’ve all got work to do.

Page 16 Take action today

Thousands of Albertans have already written to the government demanding they reverse their decision on the closure, delisting, and privatization of 175 provincial parks and recreation areas. You can join them by: 1. Learning more about the issue by reading through our website. 2. Sharing your stories and pictures with showing why these places are so special to you. 3. Calling and writing your MLA to let them know you do not support this decision! 4. Ordering a lawn sign to show your support for Alberta parks.

Click here to learn how you can Defend Alberta Parks Defend Defend Alberta parks

Your voices are needed to ensure that the ecological integrity of our Rocky Mountains are maintained. You can help by standing together against new coal mine developments in Alberta. Take action today! 1. Head over to our website to learn more about how coal mining can impact our landscape. Small 2. Call and write your MLA to let them know you do not support this decision! actions 3. Donate to help us continue advocating for coal mine free bring Rockies and spread awareness of the issue. about big Click here to fight for a coal changes free future in Alberta Fight for coal coal Fight for mine free Rockies Page 17 Inspiring Alberta’s future stewards: CPAWS Southern Alberta education programs

“My favourite part of the program was that it really helped me understand how to be more sustainable and not to be wasteful”

— Grade 5 Student, Ron Southern School

through our programs we have helped inspire... 50% of 8,402 923 programs youth new delivered immigrants to rural and 403 ...to take high needs adults eco-action areas

across 30 different classroom locations in Alberta hike/snowshoe

211 123 44 classroom outdoor adult programs programs workshops Program Themes Program Book a program for Engage your your students community group From science to social studies curriculum, CPAWS Our programs focus on improving environmental Southern Alberta programs fit in directly with the literacy. However, depending on our group, we topics that you and your students are learning in the strive to bring in other elements into our programs. classroom. Our fun and interactive programs are When presenting to new immigrant groups, we work perfect to get students excited about nature. to incorporate English language learning into the “The connection of what we are already program. For teachers and educators, we work learning about in our class and to help teachers better communicate expanding on those ideas. environmental literacy with their Motivating and inspiring the kids students, and how to motivate their to make a difference for their students to take action. We look environment.” — Grade 2 forward to working with your teacher, New Brighton School There are so community group!

many ways to Bring Nature Home is a We know that our youth hold unique educational toolkit get learning! great power in their voices that helps students engage and actions. CPAWS Southern in environmental education in Alberta wants to help youth take the comfort of their own home. their innovation, creativity, and This toolkit includes some of CPAWS passion and structure it into meaningful Southern Alberta’s very own tried and tested environmental action. Our Action Challenge games and activities for K-12 students, as well as is more than just a contest. It provides youth and other online resources to support learning. families with the knowledge and resources they need to help reduce their environmental footprint in their Bring Nature Home also provides resources for home, school, and community! The Action Challenge teachers who are looking for ways to incorporate also helps benefit communities by amplifying our environmental themes into their students’ learning. youth and community voices.

Bring Nature Home Action Challenge

To learn more about our education programs, book a program, or access our online resources, head over to: www.cpaws-southernalberta.org/education Page 19 Because here is home

A spotlight on one of CPAWS Southern Alberta’s newest education programs, which helps Albertans to better understand one of our most threatened, yet underrated ecosystems. By Sheri Tarrington, CPAWS Educator

I have a question for you, did, calling landscapes dominated by Yep, that’s right, grasslands Southern Alberta grass and sky as “prairie”. Perhaps, are givers on top of this, you also regarded I’d like you to please take a moment these relatively treeless places as Native grasslands’ generosity is and decide where it is that you live? empty, remote, lifeless, or boring. I an entanglement of the ancient A seemingly simple question, I know, hear you. In fact, when I began writing and the everyday. Life soars to the but please take a moment to reflect. and researching Why Grasslands?, sun and reverberates even deeper I held pretty much a “meh” take on underground. Dense fescue root I am willing to wager that amidst grasslands. forests filter and retain water to the flurry of thoughts that came to provide drought relief and sponge- mind—from the name of your town, That was before I was introduced to like flood mitigation. Slow and steady nation or neighbourhood to the type the amazing things that grasslands decomposition of these subterranean of dwelling in which you reside, very are. Before I got to know its hidden root jungles creates extra rich, extra few of you would have cited “the wilderness through the perspectives thick layers of organism-steeped grasslands” as your living space. of Indigenous voices, artists, soil. A gift in and of itself, this explorers, conservationists, and humus-enriched fertility is the reason This makes sense if you’re from creatures that call it home. Truth be grasslands are enormous carbon Canmore or Lake Louise. However, told, when it comes to the insight I’ve captures, or sinks. They contain over if you live outside of the Rockies in gained into power and beauty of our 50% of the world’s organic carbon. southern Alberta, I’d like you to think prairies, this landscape has changed With a warming planet on our hands, again. Do you live in the grasslands? not only my opinions, but me as this grasslands gift might just be the Maybe Alberta’s grasslands are places well. Once experienced, the pure, nature-based climate solution that you’ve never seen, experienced, or unadulterated generosity of Alberta’s ensures a carbon-neutral, new world thought much about at all. This, native grasslands will change you too. order. my friends, is exactly why CPAWS Southern Alberta’s newest education program, Why Grasslands?, was created.

Perhaps the word grasslands is new Photo: Balsamroot, to you. Perhaps you grew up as I Sheri Tarrington

Page 20 So much shared the gifts of our grasslands have The time has come to give back. And, provided inspiration, innovation, I know what you’re thinking. How? Surfacing above and beyond their fascination, education, meditation, How can I possibly give back to the crusts of lichens, mosses, algae, and and reconciliation. They have filled grasslands? Well, I have happy news— bacteria (called cryptogamic crust), our senses and provided our food, you just did! the native prairie gifts continue to knit our work, our energy, our play, our and multiply. Microclimates among identity, our spirit, our community, By reading this article, by learning the tussocks and turf pulse with ants, and, most importantly, our home. about all that we have and continue beetles, badgers, ground squirrels, to receive from our spectacular and snakes. Songbird trills and The gifts of the grasslands grasslands, you are informed. Seek to chimes set the summer soundtrack have made us who we are. know more! by which wildflowers spark and And yet… stretch the rainbow’s spectrum. Cultivated by hoof, claw, wing, and Recent estimates indicate that of talon, life here intersects and unfurls the nearly 24 million hectares of for those unafraid to dig deeper and native prairie Mother Nature gifted our province, only 6 million hectares look closer. Photo: Swift fox remain. In other words, in the process family, Colleen Gara To call this unique, widely unknown of writing our Alberta story, we have wilderness — interwoven with lost 75% of our fantastical wild prairie Find out what it means to be a creatures as fascinating as the swift and its gifts. What’s almost more grasslander. Recognize and honour fox, Sprague’s pipit and the greater upsetting is the fact that of this Indigenous ways of knowing. Explore sage grouse — merely a gift seems precious 25% that we have left, only local grasslands. Be a steward. like a massive understatement. But, 1.29% of Alberta’s grassland region Ponder the prairies’ living skies. Talk make no mistake, it is a gift. Bountiful is protected inside our parks and to farmers. Listen to ranchers. Get biodiversity quite literally seeded and protected areas network. to know grazers. Call your MLA and spurred the inclusion of our stories of ensure grasslands conservation is on life, wonder, change, and challenge. For the past 150 years, our generous their agenda. Volunteer. Rally. Donate. grasslands have given and given. And Include. Share. From the retreat of the last glacier we have taken. Now, more than ever, to the harvest on your plate, the time has come to give thanks. Welcome home.

Page 21 Small actions making a big impact

Youth are incredible change makers. We want to inspire and empower youth to protect nature. The CPAWS Southern Alberta Action Challenge is a competition among youth, encouraging them to take environmental action. Youth can sign up as individuals or teams (schools, classrooms, clubs, or families) and submit actions online. These actions earn them points. The teams with the highest points receive cash prizes. It’s a piece of cake! Prize money is used to continue their nature connection, learning, and/or environmental actions. Congratulations to these 2020 eco-heroes!

Action Challenge Session 1 Winners (October 1, 2019 – January 31, 2020)

Since the start of school, the Grade 4 class at Our Lady of Wisdom School in Chestermere incorporated environmental actions into their curriculum, with the hope of making their community a greener place. The students know they are not too young to make a difference in the environment and spread the word to the rest of the school, and their families, about how to be better stewards of the planet.

“We recycled all the markers that were dead and we sent them to Crayola to get them returned into clean fuel instead of staying in the Our Lady of Wisdom School - Grade 4’s landfill for over a thousand years,” said Ian Godley, Grade 4 student at (Chestermere) Our Lady of Wisdom School. Gold Prize Winner - $500

27 Actions, 260 Points Upon hearing about the Action Challenge during a CPAWS education program, Breanna Coupland, a Grade 2 teacher at Hillhurst School in Calgary, and her students registered right away. For four months, the students worked to reduce their impact in the classroom, in school, and at home. From conducting morning eco-announcements, organizing waste free lunches, completing a letter writing campaign, and creating schoolyard action posters, these kids never stopped! Not only did these actions establish them as local eco-leaders, but also many of their actions connected to the English, Art, Social Studies and Science curriculum. Not a bad day at school!

Hillhurst School - Grade 2’s (Calgary) “This Action Challenge inspired my students to think deeper about

Silver Prize Winner - $300 their impacts on the environment. They noticed the rubrics gave more

18 Actions, 215 Points points for actions that had long term effects and impacted more people, and that ultimately mimics real life.” said Breanna Coupland.

Page 22 Action Challenge Session II Winners (February 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020)

Even though COVID-19 put a halt on many things, it didn’t stop our youth from continuing to take action for a healthy earth. Instead, our youth became even more creative in how they could help nature from home. From participating in citizen science projects, to undertaking home energy audits, our Action Challenge superstars did it all! These youth took the initiative to engage their parents, siblings, and family members to help create a more sustainable lifestyle in their home. A big congrats to everyone that participated!

Team Buster, Calgary Team Hillhurst Eco-Leaders, Calgary Gold Prize - $500 Silver Prize - $300 25 Actions 16 Actions 215 Points 176 Points

You can start flexing your environmental action muscles too! To learn more about how to register for the Action Challenge, and get fun action ideas, visit www.actionchallenge.ca.

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n r s i e l t t c n s y a o c l p e p l r g m a a o on b ro ti tic ss ca plas cla edu 32 135 432 teams actions points committed to taking were taken by were earned, environmental action youth to build a highlighting how sustainable lifestyle every action matters Every action counts!

Page 23 Growing our future together

Here at CPAWS Southern Alberta, your support means everything to us. From fueling our day-to-day work, to inspiring us to continue fighting for our shared goal of an ecologically resilient Alberta for future generations, the role that you play is invaluable. Looking back at some of our recent wins such as protecting the Castle Wilderness, or engaging over 148,000 Albertans in environmental education, none of it would have been possible without you as part of the CPAWS Southern Alberta family. So from the bottom of our hearts, we want to say thank you. Thank you for your continued commitment to the natural beauty that exists here in Alberta. For celebrating the diversity of flora and fauna that makes our home so special. For cherishing the breathtaking moments that we share with our families and friends. Most importantly, thank you for giving back to nature.

Click here to learn But we still have a ways to go to protect all of Alberta’s wild spaces. We need your how you can donate support now more than ever to continue fighting for all of Alberta’s ecosystems to support our from the rolling prairies, to the rugged Rockies. Learn more about how you can programs! support our work, and help us do even more for Southern Alberta.

VOLUNTEER TAKE JOIN OUR GIVE A WITH US ACTION COMMUNITY GIFT

We’re always looking Interested in taking Want to receive As a non-profit, our for people passionate action on one of our updates on our work is funded in part about conservation campaigns? Flip to campaigns or alerts on by people just like to join our volunteer page 17 to find out how you can help fight you. Consider giving a team. Apply on our exactly how you can for nature? Sign up for one time or monthly website today! join in to take action. our mailing list today! donation to keep our work going. Our supporters

CPAWS Southern Alberta would like to thank all the following organizations for their generous support which has been invaluable in the continuation of our conservation and education programs.

Page 25 Statement of Financial Position CPAWS Southern Alberta is unique amongst non-profits Year Ended March 31, 2020 and strongly positioned with a healthy range of diverse funding 2020 2019 sources to match our range of ASSETS programming. With support CURRENT from industry, foundations, Cash and cash equivalents $ 591,138 $ 652,794 government, and individuals Accounts receivable 42,419 50,156 we have been able to build Goods and services tax recoverable 5,943 684 a healthy operating reserve. Prepaid expenses 4,524 8,323 Having a reserve helps us to Due from CPAWS National 10,099 50,488 weather storms like the current 654,123 762,445 pandemic, while maintaining CAPITAL ASSETS 8,810 9,335 program quality, delivery, and $ 662,933 $ 771,780 campaign initiatives. A reserve LIABILITIES allows us to be nimble and CURRENT able to react to needs and Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 23,193 $ 77,313 opportunities as they arise, Deferred contributions 220,568 320,859 rather than being completely 243,761 398,172 dependent on project specific DEFERRED CONTRIBUTIONS funding. If there’s work that RELATED TO CAPITAL ASSETS 3,211 4,408 needs doing, we can do it. 246,972 402,580

NET ASSETS With the current challenges we’re facing, and looking into INVESTED IN CAPITAL ASSETS 5,599 4,927 2021, we’ve identified the need UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS 230,362 184,273 to strengthen our reach across southern Alberta, expanding INTERNALLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS 180,000 180,000 our conservation and education 415,961 369,200 programs to continue protecting

$ 662,933 $ 771,780 southern Alberta’s landscapes, and natural heritage. Although an operation reserve provides How your donations How we’re some security and flexibility, support us funded CPAWS can’t do this without your generous support. 80% Programs 17% 10% Service (Conservation, Individuals Revenue We hope you’ll renew your education, and 27% engaging Albertans) Foundations support and continue to stand 6% with us in protecting Alberta’s Corporate 8% majestic and valuable wilderness. 36% Fundraising With your help, we can do this Government 3% Casino 1% Other work together. 12% Admin Let’s give back together

Protecting and maintaining our ecosystems, parks and wilderness isn’t just important, it’s necessary. Since the pandemic we’ve seen how much Albertans value our parks and wilderness. We’ve been reminded what getting outside can do for our state of mind and overall health. There is a need for increased protection, infrastructure, and services, as we all prioritize getting outside.

Future generations of Albertans, those not even born yet, will be impacted by the actions we take or don’t take today. At this point in our history, we can no longer do nothing. We must consider the long-term with every decision we make, and demand our governments do the same. By simply valuing and protecting what we appreciate and rely on now, we will be taking action to build a resilient future for Alberta.

The good news is, we can all decide today what our legacy will be. With our simple everyday actions, we can change what the future will look like for the next generations of Albertans. We can ensure they have access to the same quality of parks and wild spaces that we do, and gain the same physical, emotional, and economic benefits from nature that we do. We have the unique opportunity to look forward, and act now, to protect what is near and dear to us — our home.

One simple action that you can take TODAY is to take this poster on the last page and put it up or share it to show your support for Alberta’s beloved parks and recreation areas that are set to be delisted. Share the love for Alberta parks! Poster by Feast Letterpress

Page 27 bit.ly/defendalbertaparks