AWA Anual Report 2005

2005 -2006

ANNUAL REPORT

Defending Wild Alberta through Awareness and Action

Alberta Wilderness Association

1 ALBERTA WILDERNESS ASSOCIATION Annual Report 2005 - 2006

Provincial Office – Hillhurst Cottage School 455 – 12th St NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1Y9

Phone 403.283.2025 • Fax 403.270.2743 Email: [email protected] Web server: AlbertaWilderness.ca

Contributions to the Annual Report by AWA board and staff members and final editing by J. Hildebrand are gratefully acknowledged.

Table of Contents

WILDERNESS FOR TOMORROW...... 1 COMMISSION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COOPERATION ...... 22

WHO WE ARE ...... 2 PROTECTED AREAS PROGRESS ...... 22

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ...... 2 STRENGTH AND CAPACITY...... 23 ALBERTA WILDERNESS RESOURCE CENTRE ...... 26 MISSION, VISION, VALUES & OBJECTIVES ...... 3 WILD LANDS ADVOCATE ...... 26 Vision...... 3 Values...... 3 WWW.ALBERTAWILDERNESS.CA ...... 27 Objectives...... 4 I ILDERNESS ETWORK ...... 26 Program Goals ...... 4 W N (W N ) COMMUNITY WORK PLACEMENTS...... 27 WILDERNESS CONSERVATION, STEWARDSHIP & EDUCATION ...... 5 FINANCING WILDERNESS WILD SPACES, WILD LANDS...... 6 PROTECTION...... 28 AREAS OF CONCERN...... 8 REVENUE...... 28 Primrose-Lakeland...... 8 EXPENDITURES...... 29 Bighorn Wildland...... 9 Crown of the Continent Ecosystem...... 10 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL Alberta’s Southern Eastern Slopes...... 11 POSITION ...... 30 Prairie Grasslands and Parkland Ecosystems...... 11 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS...... 31 Northwest Alberta ...... 13 Northeast Alberta ...... 15 ALBERTA WILDERNESS AND WILDLIFE TRUST...... 32 ALBERTA’S WILDLIFE – Annual Guest Lecture ...... 32 SPECIES AT RISK ...... 16 Wilderness Defender Awards ...... 32 Bison ...... 16 Grizzly Bears...... 16 Caribou ...... 17 SARA ...... 18 PHOTO CREDITS Wildlife Economies ...... 1 Cover - Daniel Olson Page 5 - Cliff Wallis FORESTS ...... 19 Page 8 - Joyce Hildebrand Mountain Pine Beetle...... 19 Page 9 - David Samson Forest Fires ...... 20 Page 10 - Nigel Douglas Page 11 - Christyann Olson PUBLIC LANDS ...... 21 Page 12 - Hyland Armstrong, C. Olson Page 16 - C. Olson WATERSHED PROTECTION ...... 21 Page 17 - David Samson Special Areas Water Supply Project...... 22 Page 18 - Cliff Wallis, C. Olson Page 20 - C. Olson Page 21 - Ray Blanchard Page 22 - C. Olson Page 23 - C. Wallis

Page 32 - D. Olson

ALBERTA WILDERNESS ASSOCIATION

Wilderness for Tomorrow “Some say that hope lies in a nation; others in a man. I believe, rather, that it is awakened, revived, nourished by millions of solitary individuals, whose deeds and works every day negate frontiers…each and every man, on the foundations of his own sufferings and joys, builds for all.” – Albert Camus

orty-one years ago our founders struggled as much as we do today with the reality of diminishing wilderness. They became champions of habitat for the wildlife they respected and relied on. They flew to Edmonton to speak with the politicians, they F held public meetings, they shared the stories of Wild Alberta – in person and in print – and they helped others learn. They knew what we know today: our very existence, our well- being and our own personal health depend on wilderness. The passion of our founders burns in each one of us at AWA as strongly as it ever did. This year we have challenged ourselves daily with the age old questions of how to prevent inevitable losses, how to achieve a wilderness legacy, how to secure the protection of wilderness and wildlife resources today. Many years later, as well as the traditional methods of confrontation and collaboration, commonplace in our day-to-day business, we seek out new paths to wilderness protection and wilderness for tomorrow. Above all, we strive to remain relevant in today’s society. To know our role and the mandate we have from our members and supporters; to have an impact and be an important part of present-day society and the far-reaching decisions being made about Wild Alberta. Our programs this year, perhaps more than ever, have addressed the inextricable links between water, wildlife, and wild lands. We have covered every corner of Alberta, sometimes on foot, in the air, in cars and buses, and on horseback. We have grown our membership to represent 167 communities throughout the province and we have learned more about our areas of concern and Wild Spaces. We have cooperated with other environmental groups and developed strategies together. We have invited our industry colleagues to discuss concerns and practices, collaborating where possible and confronting when necessary. We have represented the public interest. The work is as hard as it comes. The outcomes are not always significant in the measure of land conserved or wild species saved, but we know we are making a difference. The staff and Board of Directors are a formidable force and work as a team to strategically plan our direction and the use of our human and financial resources. Our vision for the future is clear. We are dependent on our members and supporters for their assistance financially and on the ground as advocates and community leaders. None of our accomplishments would have been possible without support from members and donors and others in the non-profit, foundation, corporate, and government sectors. This annual report underlines the importance of the work we have achieved and the promise of ongoing work to protect and enhance Alberta’s wilderness.

Christyann Olson, Richard Secord, Executive Director President

Who We Are

Alberta Wilderness Association was formed in 1965 in southwest Alberta by backcountry enthusiasts, ranchers, and outfitters. Since then AWA has grown to include a wide diversity of individual backgrounds and skills in its membership and its staff. More than 40 years of dedicated volunteerism, philanthropy, and belief in the vision of AWA have contributed to the rich culture that is the AWA. AWA remains Alberta’s frontline advocacy organization advancing the establishment of truly protected wilderness areas. For more than 40 years AWA has helped people to recognize these diverse and unique wilderness values in Alberta. Preserving wilderness may someday be seen through the eyes of our children, politicians, and historians as the most important contribution societies can make to the health of our global environment and planet. – Richard Secord, President Board of Directors President: Richard Secord, Edmonton Past-President: Cliff Wallis, Calgary First Vice-President: Heinz Unger, Cochrane Second Vice-President: Vivian Pharis, Calgary Secretary/Treasurer: Cliff Wallis, Calgary Directors: Hyland Armstrong, Elkwater Frank Calder, Edmonton James Campbell, Calgary Gerald Hall, Calgary Director Emeritus: Herbert G. Kariel, Calgary

Board members take a break from meeting to pose on the steps of Hillhurst Cottage School, AWA’s Provincial Office.

Missing are Hyland Armstrong, Herb Kariel, and Frank Calder.

Mission, Vision, Values & Objectives Defending Wild Alberta through Awareness an d Action

lberta Wilderness Association (AWA) is the oldest wilderness conservation group in Alberta dedicated to the completion of a protected areas network and the conservation of wilderness throughout the province. Founded in 1965 in A rural southwest Alberta by backcountry enthusiasts, ranchers, and outfitters, AWA has grown into a province-wide organization. With more than four decades of success, it is known for its tenacity, corporate memory, and integrity. AWA is a non- profit, federally registered, charitable society. It has a provincial office and resource centre in Calgary and active members and volunteers throughout Alberta. The staff of the Association includes professionals and specialists in management, conservation biology, economics, education, outreach, communications, and accounting.

V ISION

There will be a comprehensive system of protected wild areas. There will be a society with decision-making processes, policies, and laws that recognize the value of nature for its own sake. AWA will be an effective and credible advocate that fosters awareness and helps Albertans protect wild areas and wildlife. AWA will have sufficient resources to speak independently on wilderness issues.

V ALUES

Ecocentredness We recognize the inherent importance of Nature and humankind’s place in it, and the role of AWA is to be an advocate for that which cannot speak for itself. Integrity We conduct our advocacy with truth, honesty, and respect for others, within the full limits of the law. Respectfulness We develop rapport with individuals and communities through active listening, openness, and free access to information in a democratic way. Participation We promote effective environmental decision-making through an empowered and knowledgeable public that is inclusive of all segments of society. Tenacity We will steadfastly advocate for Nature in a manner true to our principles through innovation, persistence, and passion. Passion We are free to feel, demonstrate, and encourage an emotional and spiritual connectedness with Nature.

O BJECTIVES

1. To promote the protection of wildland areas and wild rivers in Alberta in an attempt to preserve them in their natural state. 2. To safeguard and work to restore the wild, natural ecosystems of Alberta. 3. To enable Albertans to communicate effectively with government, industry and other sectors of society on matters concerning the wild, natural ecosystems of Alberta. 4. To educate Albertans on the value, ecologically sustainable use, and conservation of wilderness, and of natural lands, water, and wildlife. 5. To foster among Albertans a sense of connectedness to and passion for wild places, wildlife, and Alberta’s natural landscapes.

P ROGRAM G OALS

1. To promote the completion of a network of protected wilderness lands and waters in Alberta. 2. To ensure that this network of protected areas includes sufficient wilderness lands and waters to represent each of the diverse Natural Regions and Sub-Regions in Alberta; to protect unique and outstanding areas of wilderness; and to meet the public’s demand for such wild places. 3. To ensure that this network of protected areas is legally protected from human development, including industrial activities, settlement, cultivation, and motorized use, and is left in a wilderness state in perpetuity. 4. To promote the protection of the wilderness authenticity and ecological integrity of existing protected areas.

Wilderness Conservation, Stewardship & Education

WA defines wilderness with the following statement: “Wilderness exists where large areas are characterized by the dominance of natural processes, the presence of the full complement of plant and animal communities characteristic of the region, andA the absence of human constraints on nature.” This year, perhaps more than any other, we have realized the dominance of man over natural processes: wolf culls and the penning of caribou calves are just two recent examples of human interference. The full complement of plant and animal communities characteristic of natural regions has been threatened throughout Alberta, with forest fire suppression in Willmore Wilderness Park being one example, and proposed tar sands tailings ponds in the McClelland Lake watershed yet another. Humans continue racing to harness nature in Alberta, and it is our work to keep the vision of true wilderness alive and to see it protected on the ground. The following pages provide a brief review of our work in an exciting and rewarding year. We have not achieved our vision and greatest goals of protection for critical Wild Spaces; yet we are encouraged with the progress made. Our members and supporters are steadfast and help us remember the value of smaller goals achieved along the way. We know that hope lies in the deeds of solitary individuals who build for all. Christyann Olson, Executive Director

Coopers Hawk

WILD SPACES, WILD LANDS We know there is no better way to preserve ecological biodiversity than through a network of representative protected areas. Our quality of life and quality of opportunity depend on it.

Wild Spaces and Areas of Concern are the names we use to refer to areas that are critical to a network of protected representative landscapes in Alberta. These areas are the basis of our Wild Alberta map. This map has evolved through the years from initial hand-drawn “bubbles” to a more refined version that uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to detail known critical values in Alberta’s landscapes. This map is shared regularly with colleagues in government, industry, and the environmental field to create a better understanding of critical ecological values and to recognize the significance of Alberta’s natural capital. It is perhaps one of our most effective educational tools. The map is available in large poster format and has been presented to a number of schools throughout the province. It is posted on our website to create greater accessibility. As we continue to refine each Area of Concern, the individual maps are also posted to our website. In 2006 AWA obtained a STEP grant that allowed us to hire for the summer a recent graduate from Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) who has expertise in GIS mapping and software. Along with a number of other smaller miscellaneous mapping projects, our major effort has focused on redesigning into a more reader-friendly format for reference purposes all of the AWA’s Areas of Concern maps, an example of which is below.

Additionally, AWA acquired GIS mapping software and we have been gradually incorporating into our day-to-day operations the use of the database we have already acquired or built. Some uses so far have been making amendments in-house to existing maps, creating new data and maps, and using all the data at our disposal to analyze and extract important information from existing maps and data, including those related to the Bighorn Wildland Recreation Monitoring Project.

AREAS OF CONCERN “It is not enough to understand the natural world; the point is to defend and preserve it.” – Edward Abbey

P RIMROSE-LAKELAND

During the past year AWA continued its efforts to secure better protection for the Primrose-Lakeland area. AWA plans to continue working toward the restoration and maintenance of a healthy intact ecosystem in Lakeland that protects watersheds and forests, sustains viable wildlife populations, and provides long-term sustainable and diversified economic opportunities for nearby communities. Extending the boundaries of the Park and PRA and developing an ecologically sensitive Management Plan for the Provincial Park and PRA are some of our goals for this area. The Plan must prohibit floatplane landings, limit ATV use to existing designated trails, and prohibit forestry and oil and gas activities. AWA will continue advocating for a systematic ecological study of the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range with a view to establishing one or more protected areas on the Range. Primrose-Lakeland covers about 6,000 km2 east of Lac La Biche and includes much of the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. Lakeland Provincial Park (147 km2) and Lakeland Provincial Recreation Area (443.3 km2) were established in 1992, leaving 5,400 km2 with no legislated protection. This area belongs to the Central Mixedwood Subregion of the boreal forest. Although the Central Mixedwood is the largest boreal subregion in Alberta, it requires better representation in our system of protected areas. The area’s many lakes provide critical breeding and nesting habitat for birds such as great blue herons and loons. Bogs and fens contain rare plant species, and a significant portion of the region constitutes part of the Primrose caribou herd’s range. Lakeland’s astounding biodiversity includes almost 200 bird species, 41 different mammals, and both cold-water and warm-water fish. The area faces intense petroleum development, logging, encroaching settlement, and high-impact recreation such as OHV use. Extensive degradation from extractive industries has already occurred, and subsurface leases for petroleum and natural gas occupy roughly one-third of the area. The region’s old-growth forests are particularly at risk. The fish stocks of many of the lakes are depleted from commercial fishing, and hunting and trapping activities continue. Funding from the Richard Ivey Foundation has been critical to the ongoing focus AWA has put on this Area of Concern. Our funding with the Ivey Foundation was completed during this fiscal year. Dr. Ian Urquhart has coordinated our work in the Primrose- Lakeland area.

B IGHORN W ILDLAND

Issues such as ongoing oil and gas exploration, OHV access, and Alberta Tourism and Recreational Leasing (ATRL) development, particularly in the Panther River area, are placing themselves squarely on the Bighorn Wildland’s doorstep, sometimes with a foot inside the door. The Bighorn is a physically large area and the issues surrounding it can be equally large. On the research and education front, AWA has spent considerable time and resources over the past year in the Bighorn Wildland working toward completing field data acquisition for the Bighorn Wildland Recreation Monitoring Project, leading into the final year of the project. Through a number of field trips in 2005, we were able to create an inventory and establish the condition of the vast majority of the official ATV trails in the Hummingbird Recreation Area (HRA). We also continue to acquire electronic data on the levels of ATV activity. The inventory and the final report will be completed by the end of 2006. The importance of raising awareness of the Bighorn Wildland’s values has been reflected in activities like a well-attended AWA presentation hosted by the people of Rimbey, Alberta; AWA displays at farmers markets in Red Deer and for the first time in St. Albert; involvement in public input sessions in the Sundre area on a significant ATRL application for the Panther River area; a new AWA hike near our recreation monitoring project study area (see photo above); and providing input at a workshop on elk management in the Ya Ha Tinda area. In addition, Kyle Knopff, a PhD candidate at the University of Alberta, is conducting cougar research in a cooperative project with AWA in the Bighorn Wildland. AWA hosted Mr. Knopff to present his early research findings at one of AWA’s open house talks. Another long-time AWA contribution has been maintenance of the Bighorn Historic Trail. Unfortunately, precipitation and flooding prevented AWA from being able to complete the maintenance in 2005; however, a successful trip was completed in July 2006. AWA has kept in contact with Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) on specific issues in the HRA as well as on broader issues affecting the Bighorn. We presented interim information on our HRA trail assessments to SRD, which has resulted in SRD expressing an interest in using this information in their management planning for the area with the aim of improving conditions and sustainability of activities in the HRA. AWA registered concerns with the provincial government with some oil and gas applications immediately adjacent to the Bighorn Wildland. This has resulted in companies meeting with AWA to discuss opportunities for being more environmentally sensitive in their operations. We will continue to be vigilant on activities in and near the Bighorn Wildland and continue efforts to ultimately achieve protected status for much of the Bighorn Wildland.

C ROWN OF THE C ONTINENT E COSYSTEM

For many years, AWA’s focus in the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem (CCE) has been to achieve legislated protection of the Castle Wilderness. While this area is where our roots are, we are also fully engaged in protecting the areas we have identified as Wild Spaces necessary for a truly protected network throughout the CCE. From the Montana border to the southern parts of Kananaskis, AWA has a number of projects, concerns, collaborative efforts, and interests. AWA continued its calls for the Castle area to be protected as the Andy Russell Wildland in memory of this tireless wildland defender. AWA is working with other ENGOs and with many different stakeholders in the region (oil and gas industry, Castle Mountain Resorts, hunting groups) to investigate areas of commonality. In 2005 Reg Ernst completed a three-year rare plant survey of the Front Range canyons of the Castle. Reg also carried out an invasive plant survey in the same area. In 2006, work began on studies into limber pine and whitebark pine health in the region. The long-term survival of these species is at risk as they face blister rust and pine beetle outbreaks. AWA has continued its dialogue with Shell Canada to work toward improved management in the Castle Area. We have provided input into Shell’s ongoing reclamation of abandoned wells. Staff and board members participated in a field day to Corner Mountain, the Castle River Ranger station, Castle Mountain Resorts, and the Western Adventures lease site west of Crowsnest Mountain. For the second year, a three-day backpacking trip in the Castle front ranges was part of AWA’s summer hikes program. Waterton Parkland A proposed land-use bylaw change that would have allowed long-term lease tenure for recreational vehicles on individual sites in the campground north of Waterton National Park was successfully defeated. AWA and members opposed the by-law change. Livingstone/Porcupine During the past year, AWA had a very active role in this region, working toward an increased emphasis on its sustainable natural values as opposed to mineral extraction. In collaboration with local landowner groups, including the Pekisko and Livingstone Groups, the South Porcupine Steward Association, and the Southern Alberta Land Trust Society, we have focused on improved planning so as to recognize many of the region’s values – ranching, wildlife, tourism, water protection. Along with MDs, landowner and conservation groups, and industry representatives, AWA has been involved with the Southern Foothills Study, which is carrying out cumulative effects studies. AWA continued its outreach work to raise the profile of the region, including talks, hikes (to the Whaleback, Beehive and Porcupine Hills), and a bus trip. AWA acknowledges support from the Wilburforce Foundation and the Alberta Conservation Association for its work in the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem.

A LBERTA’ S S OUTHERN E ASTERN S LOPES

Ghost-Waiparous Area The Alberta government’s development of the long-awaited Ghost Waiparous Access Management Plan (for motorized access) continued in the fall of 2005, with AWA represented at Sustainable Resource Development’s multi-stakeholder meetings. The final plan was released in May 2006. AWA continues to work toward a plan that will do a better job of protecting wilderness values, particularly non-motorized access, wildlife, and clean watersheds. To this end AWA has volunteered to be on the stewardship group that will oversee the implementation of the plan in the future.

Kananaskis Country AWA continues to monitor management in Kananaskis Country and to work toward increased protection. A draft forest management plan for Spray Lake Sawmills, which has forestry rights to 46 percent of Kananaskis Country, generated a large amount of public interest. AWA’s response to the draft plan included calls for a full-scale independent review of the 1,000-page plan, as allowed for by the 2006 Alberta Forest Management Planning Standard. A three-day trail maintenance trip occurred in the Lost Creek area of the Great Divide Trail in September 2005, with volunteers from the Great Divide Trail Association. This was a great success: a second trip planned for June 2006 was postponed because of poor weather and was rescheduled for September 2006. AWA continues to work as a steward for Plateau Mountain Ecological Reserve. Petro-Canada now owns the mineral rights for the area, and AWA has been working closely with the company to monitor developments. AWA is also closely following future oil and gas developments in the area. Kananaskis Country continues to feature in AWA’s summer hikes program.

P RAIRIE G RASSLANDS AND P ARKLAND E COSYSTEMS

Wainwright Dunes AWA continues to serve on the advisory group for the Wainwright Dunes and to monitor implementation of the management plan approved in 1999 for this nationally significant parkland sand dunes and wetland wilderness.

Rumsey The Rumsey Natural Area, an internationally significant grassland, has grazing and a small amount of oil and gas activity. After the advent of coalbed methane (CBM) in June 2004, AWA raised awareness of the issues surrounding CBM, the importance of grassland protection, and the history and

importance of preserving the Rumsey block. AWA maintains open communications with the company currently engaged in CBM exploration and continues to oppose industrial activity within the Natural Area. We have made our position known to government and continue to seek dialogue to further efforts for the area’s greater protection.

Cypress Hills The Cypress Hills is recognized internationally as a significant native grassland area. In the Cypress Hills Fringe Area Structure Plan, Cypress County recognized the importance of preserving the ranchlands surrounding Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. When wind farms were proposed in the Fringe, the buffer zone surrounding the park, AWA was one of a number of groups and individuals who spoke out in favour of the intent of the Fringe plan, which opposes industrialization in the area. Following a public hearing, County councilors decided to allow wind farms in the Fringe, but councilors would have to take into account the guidelines and intent of the Fringe plan.

Northern Plains Conservation Network (NPCN) Work to develop this network has slowed down due to a lack of resources. One meeting was held this year and a commitment was made to look into organizing a workshop on wild bison, likely in Billings, Montana in the fall of 2006.

Milk River As a founding member, AWA continues to serve on the Milk River Natural Area Management Society, which oversees the management of this nationally significant grassland and river wilderness in southeast Alberta. The group hasn’t been able to meet, since the government is delayed while it decides how to work with Heritage Rangeland and other protected area categories. The area is still being managed well but the longer term is currently unclear.

N ORTHWEST A LBERTA

Hay-Zama AWA continues to serve on the management committee and oversee the wind down of oil and gas operations in this Area of Concern. Everything is on schedule with the Memoranda of Agreement with the various companies that operate in the basin; all extreme-risk activities have shut down and areas are being restored. Fire management planning was initiated and a study on potential approaches to nature- and culture-based tourism was initiated, although local political problems have postponed the full implementation of that project.

AWA initiated the twinning of this protected area with another Ramsar Wetland of Global Significance in Inner Mongolia: the Dalai Lake Nature Reserve, near where the boundaries of Russia, Mongolia, and China all meet. The government of Alberta has indicated its support for formalizing this relationship.

Satelliet image with GIS layers of AWA Areas of Concern, including Kakwa, Little Smoky, Willmore, and Cardinal Divide (Cartographer: D. Samson)

Cardinal Divide The key issue in the Cardinal Divide Area of Concern over many years has been the ongoing efforts of trying to stop or limit the Cheviot coal mine. This past year saw the end of AWA’s involvement in the continued legal challenges. The last remaining legal action was to try and stop the changes to the coal haul road along the McLeod River, but in August 2005, the courts rejected the legal challenge by Sierra Legal Defence Fund on behalf of the coalition of which AWA was a member. AWA has elected not to pursue any further legal action on this issue and has ended its association with the coalition established for this purpose. AWA will continue to be vigilant on conditions in the area and will focus its attention on the impacts on and the management of Whitehorse Wildland Provincial Park, situated adjacent to and northwest of the mine.

Little Smoky The story of the Little Smoky is interconnected with that of the woodland caribou. This roughly triangular-shaped Area of Concern is located along the Eastern Slopes west of Edmonton and north of Hinton. It lies between the Athabasca and Smoky Rivers, and the Little Smoky River cuts through its heart. Although the region has provided valuable woodland caribou, grizzly bear, elk, and moose habitat, it has been subjected to intense industrial and recreational activity over the years from oil and gas, forestry, and OHV activity.

A bird’s-eye view of part of the Little Smoky north of Hinton (satellite image courtesy of NASA World Wind). Note the vast clearcutting and the forestry and oil and gas roads. A closer look at this area with World Wind reveals an even more extensive and complex network of linear disturbances and oil and gas well sites.

Most of the Little Smoky Area of Concern (AOC) includes valuable Foothills Natural Region, which is highly underrepresented provincially with respect to protected lands. Only 1.4 percent of the Foothills Region has any form of protection; the Little Smoky has virtually no protected areas within the AOC boundaries. Almost all of the area within this AOC is allocated under Forestry Management Units. The area is highly fragmented from oil and gas exploration, pipelines, roads, and forestry activity. This linear fragmentation brings increased OHV access. All these cumulative effects are having negative impacts on the habitat of woodland caribou, grizzly bears, and other wildlife, and the populations of some of these species are suffering. The most controversial issue this past year was the government’s use of a wolf cull to stem predation on woodland caribou, which many scientists believe is from increased linear disturbances. AWA has been vocal on the wolf cull issue and has noted its objections directly to the government departments and ministers. There has been intense media interest in the wolf cull and woodland caribou issues, and AWA has helped inform the media with their inquiries. AWA has also published a number of articles on this subject in its journal, the Wild Lands Advocate. One of these articles was included, intact, in another independent publication. AWA has been in discussion with numerous major oil and gas companies on their efforts to lessen their industrial footprints. A number of these companies have put funds into scientifically researching different approaches and methods, and are often making a much greater intra-industry and inter-industry collaborative effort to minimize impacts.

The Little Smoky area, however, is already highly fragmented from fully allocated forestry and oil and gas activity. Recovery of habitat, in particular that of woodland caribou, is going to be extremely difficult. The efforts by AWA in the Little Smoky are simultaneously employed in the Kakwa region, as we believe that implementing effective ecological management tools at a landscape scale is paramount at this time in that region, which is still relatively pristine and offers an excellent opportunity to keep wildlife like the woodland caribou on the landscape. Kakwa The Kakwa AOC, situated in Alberta’s “elbow” north of Willmore Wilderness Park, is a relatively pristine region that contains one protected area, the Kakwa Wildland Park, and the Kakwa and Narraway Rivers. Compared to the Little Smoky region, there has been relatively little industrial activity in the area until recently. The area provides excellent grizzly habitat and contains the ranges of the Narraway and A La Peche woodland caribou herds. AWA has been active in the Kakwa recently due to our concerns about increasing oil and gas exploration in the region, as well as ongoing concerns with logging practices and OHV access. We have published articles about this area in our journal, the Wild Lands Advocate, particularly on the issue of burgeoning oil and gas exploration. AWA has also registered its concerns with oil and gas drilling proposals in the Kakwa, resulting in us being contacted by three oil and gas companies to discuss our issues. Two of the companies described enhanced environmental practices to minimize industrial impacts and provided information regarding funds they are investing in caribou research. Much of this area is considered pristine and no special operating procedures are in place as they are in the southern Eastern Slopes. AWA has requested a meeting with the chair of the Energy and Utilities Board to discuss formalizing special management policy and tolls for the Kakwa region, with additional consideration to expand such policy to the northern portion of the Eastern Slopes to avoid the ecological problems that have occurred in the Little Smoky region.

N ORTHEAST A LBERTA McClelland Lake Watershed The unique McClelland Lake Wetland Complex, 90 km north of Fort McMurray, is deserving of World Heritage status. The Complex and its entire 330-km2 watershed are threatened by tar sands open-pit mining, which will completely destroy half of the world-class patterned fen southwest of the lake. Petro-Canada has government approval to mine the fen and plans to begin development within the watershed in 2008 or 2009. AWA opposes mining in the fen and has met with Petro-Canada to discuss our position. We are seeking support and pursuing a diversity of strategies to help protect this priceless ecosystem. A new staff member, Joyce Hildebrand, has taken the lead on this area. A flyover of the area with staff and peatland and tar sands experts provided valuable background information. Grassroots networks and contacts with experts are being developed. AWA is actively seeking the protection of the McClelland Lake watershed. “The wilderness idea is a resource in itself. Being an intangible and spiritual resource, it will seem mystical to the practical-minded – but then anything that cannot be moved by a bulldozer is likely to seem mystical to them.” –Wallace Stegner, Pulitzer Prize Novelist

ALBERTA’S WILDLIFE – SPECIES AT RISK

B ISON

There are very few wild (without genes from hybridization with cattle) plains bison left in North America. Most bison are owned and bred for commercial purposes. Some ranchers are growing bison for a combination of domestic use and free-ranging herds on large tracts of private land. In Alberta, bison are listed as domestic livestock and are not included it in the wildlife act. These are some of the many factors contributing to the controversy over the future of bison. There is a great concern that commercialization is altering the wild genome of the bison in favour of qualities that would render bison more suitable for ranching. In 2006 Alberta amended its Public Lands Act to allow commercial bison grazing on public lands, as long as wildlife-permeable fencing is built that will also keep the bison secure. AWA opposes commercial bison grazing on public lands, believing this will further jeopardize recovery efforts for wild plains bison. The Northern Plains Conservation Network and other groups interested in conserving the Northern Great Plains intend to restore relatively free- roaming wild plains bison populations in their native habitat, along with a full complement of native species, including predators. The Wildlife Conservation Society is holding important meetings to examine the issues of concern from Canada to Mexico in relation to the domestication and wildlife issues related to bison. AWA will participate in some of these meetings in October in Denver, Colorado.

G RIZZLY B EARS

The draft Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan, submitted to the Minister for Sustainable Resource Development in December 2004, has still not been ratified. Reviews by two U.S. grizzly bear scientists were published in February 2006, resulting in some minor changes to the draft plan. AWA and other ENGOs continue to be represented on the Recovery Team. AWA was relieved when the Minster for Sustainable Resource Development agreed with public pressure and announced the suspension of the spring grizzly bear hunt for three years, starting in 2006. The concerted efforts of opponents of the hunt and the large number of letters to the media and to politicians played an important role in this announcement. AWA’s response to the hunt suspension was that this was a great first step, but there is an enormously long way to go before grizzly populations begin to recover.

C ARIBOU

This past year has been a tumultuous one for this iconic animal, identified as an “endangered species” under Alberta’s Wildlife Act and as “threatened” under the Federal Species At Risk Act (SARA). As can be seen from the map on the next page, the various woodland caribou herds’ ranges cover large areas of northern Alberta and eastern central Alberta, but very little is known about the population status of many of the herds. What is known, however, is that a number of herds are seriously declining and are at immediate risk of extirpation Woodland caribou habitat is under constant threat from industrial and recreational expansion throughout its ranges; however, more publicly visible threats surfaced this year in the Little Smoky region as well as in the Caribou Mountains, where an increase in recreational activity may occur. There are also ongoing concerns with recreational activity in Jasper and Banff Parks. The Little Smoky came under the spotlight this past year when the government ignored the advice of scientists and its own committee. The Alberta Caribou Committee (ACC), charged with creating a plan for the recovery of woodland caribou, had recommended a moratorium on industrial development in places like the Little Smoky, but the government rejected this recommendation and proceeded to sell more oil and gas leases in the Little Smoky. AWA registered strong concerns with the government, whose management choice of a wolf cull in the Little Smoky was very controversial and questionable, garnering much public attention. AWA helped raise public awareness on this issue with articles in the Wild Lands Advocate and with numerous responses to intense media interest. In the meantime, the woodland caribou’s future in the Little Smoky is not encouraging, as the area has been already been subjected to intense industrial activity. Furthermore, the herds in the relatively pristine Kakwa region appear to be next in line, with oil and gas development being added to the existing forestry activity. AWA is following the issue closely and is in contact with the Alberta Caribou Committee to follow its progress.

AWA has also obtained information on the status of the woodland caribou herd in Jasper from the work of the Jasper Environmental Association, with one of their members, Jill Seaton, writing an article on the subject for a recent issue of AWA’s Wild Lands Advocate.

SARA

AWA, the Federation of Alberta Naturalists, and Nature Canada, with the assistance of Sierra Legal Defence Fund, requested that federal Environment Minister Rona Ambrose fulfill her obligation under s.34(3) of SARA to recommend to Cabinet an emergency order issue for the application of SARA in Alberta. Sections 32 and 33 apply to lands in Alberta that are not federal lands with respect to the tiny cryptanthe (Cryptantha minima) and small- flowered sand verbena (Trypterocalyx micranthus, pictured above). The basis for the request is that these plants are listed as endangered on schedule 1 of SARA and Alberta has no laws to protect them. Minister Ambrose was given 60 days to respond and was notified that we intended to commence a federal court application. We are currently determining our next move.

W ILDLIFE E CONOMIES

AWA supports living wildlife economies that promote the conservation of wildlife populations in their natural habitats and as a public resource. AWA opposes the privatization, domestication, and commercialization of wildlife, including game farming. The government gave millions in subsidies to the alternative livestock industry, which includes game-farmed animals, and continues to promote this industry, which it admits is not viable. The class action lawsuit brought by game farmers against the federal government is now in case management and proceeding to certification. The government responded to reports of chronic wasting disease (CWD) among deer in Saskatchewan along the Alberta-Saskatchewan border by culling deer in Alberta. Freezers like the one in the photo above were placed throughout rural southeast Alberta for a CWD-testing program for hunters. AWA believes that the only effective defence against CWD is to eliminate game farming. A long-term plan to eliminate CWD in wildlife must be coordinated and enacted as early as possible and must be fully funded for long-term surveillance and monitoring, carcass removal, and additional measures as required.

FORESTS AWA’s research efforts in this past year have focused on alternatives to industrial forestry in Alberta’s southern Eastern Slopes. We are preparing a report that will address current forestry operations and examine the business case for alternatives to forestry operations. AWA provided detailed input to two major forestry plans that will likely have long-term effects on forestry operations in southern Alberta: the C5 Forest Management Plan and Spray Lake Sawmills’ Forest Management Agreement. The C5 Forest Management Area covers 352,000 hectares of forested public land from Waterton Lakes National Park to southern Kananaskis Country. Spray Lake Sawmills’ Forest Management Agreement covers 337,000 hectares of forest from southern Kananaskis north to Sundre. AWA continues to argue that both draft plans encourage management of forests for timber production but do not adequately address the many other complex values of healthy forests, including clean water, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. AWA encouraged its supporters to voice their concerns about both the draft C5 plan, released in November 2005, and the draft Spray Lake plan, released in May 2006. Both plans remain in draft stage. Two key issues have emerged from Alberta’s forests this past year: mountain pine beetle (MPB) infestation and fire suppression policy. Both are significant issues on their own, in terms of both geographical extent and financial impact, but the two are increasingly seen as highly interrelated. Anticipated impacts of climate change on our forests add another level of concern.

M OUNTAIN P INE B EETLE

Alberta’s western neighbour, British Columbia, has witnessed first-hand the devastation caused by MPB, particularly to its interior lodgepole pine forests. Over the decades, Alberta has been relatively immune to these natural cycles of MPB infestations due to the physical barrier of the Rocky Mountains and the cold winters that killed beetle populations in large numbers. Alberta’s warmer than average winters, however, have allowed the beetles to survive in Alberta in large numbers in areas more northern and eastern than their usual habitat. This is causing great concern for the Alberta government, the forestry industry, and communities that rely on forestry. The Alberta government is prepared to spend large sums of money on an extended war on the MPB to keep it from destroying large areas of lodgepole pine and to prevent it from infesting the boreal forest, which could feasibly devastate the boreal forest across Canada. In May 2006, AWA attended the Mountain Pine Beetle Summit, a co-presentation by the government of B.C. and the Alberta’s Sustainable Resource Development (SRD). What was clear was that SRD was prepared to treat this as a virtual MPB war and intended to provide the financial resources for a prolonged fight. What was not so clear was the impact this war would have on Alberta’s parks and protected areas and whether they will be sacrificed to protect commercial forest interests east of the National Parks. Willmore Wilderness Park was identified as being on the front line in the fight on MPB and already has been subjected to thousands of trees being cut and burned.

F OREST F IRES

Early in 2006, SRD and Community Development, Parks & Protected Areas jointly hosted a public workshop for stakeholders to provide input into the proposed Willmore Wilderness Park (WWP) Fire Management Plan (FMP). AWA was invited to and attended the workshop. The plan proposed what is essentially new policy in Alberta for Willmore Wilderness Park. The current forest fire suppression policy is effectively to suppress any fires that occur in Alberta, where possible. The WWP FMP, at the outset at least, proposed letting fires burn naturally in the western two-thirds of WWP, with fire suppression used only in the event of threats to life and property. With initial prescribed burning targeted strategically to key areas and with the creation of firebreaks for the protection of Grande Cache, this would set the stage for establishing a natural fire regime in WWP and for a more natural and varied vegetation structure, including a wider, more heterogeneous age structure of the forest. This change to the age structure of the forest would, in theory, enhance the forest’s natural defenses to forest pests like the mountain pine beetle. It is widely recognized that in addition to possible impacts from global warming, the widespread survival of the mountain pine beetle in Alberta is partially due to a homogeneous forest age structure resulting from decades of fire suppression policy. This policy has resulted in large sections of forest with a continuous blanket of 80- to 120-year-old lodgepole pines, providing prime conditions for the expansion of the beetle. Trees in this age bracket have considerably less effective internal natural defenses, and homogeneous tracts of closely spaced equal-aged trees provide an extended pathway for the beetle to march eastward, especially without the deep, killing winter temperatures. For many years, AWA has supported establishing natural fire regimes in Alberta’s parks and protected areas with a science-based adaptive fire management strategy. This would allow the forest to manage pests naturally, as it has for millennia. Therefore, AWA encouraged the WWP plan but conducted a detailed review of the plan and provided a comprehensive submission with recommendations for the government to consider for the final fire management plan. As part of this process, AWA stressed the need for management plans for Alberta’s parks and emphatically suggested that an overall management plan for WWP should be done soon after the fire management plan is completed. AWA also published an article in our journal, the Wild Lands Advocate, to inform our readership on AWA’s perspective on the proposed plan. Recent fires in 2006, prior to the FMP being approved and implemented, saw SRD take heavy fire- fighting equipment deep into WWP. AWA investigated the events, as our understanding from the draft FMP was that no heavy ground equipment was to be used, even when SRD decides that fire suppression is absolutely necessary. We were assured by SRD that heavy equipment was necessary and would accomplish part of the preparation under the plan for firebreaks; however, AWA has been and intends to remain vigilant in the proper management of Willmore Wilderness Park.

“Nature is … part of man’s standard of living, and no ecologically impoverished nation has a valid claim to a high standard of living no matter how magnificent its economic output.” – William A. Fuller, Zoologist, University of Alberta, 1969

PUBLIC LANDS “Good environmental policy is not contradictory to human and industrial welfare. It is a matter of moving more quickly to make the best use of already available knowledge. The environment comes in for much political lip service, but too little positive action in practice.” – Andy Russell

AWA has been seeking a publicly developed overarching public land-use strategy for more than two decades. The inability of Alberta’s government to manage cumulative environmental impacts from booming resource extraction and land-use assaults has moved to the forefront this year. Numerous stakeholder consultative processes and policy initiatives have been launched. The government now intends to revise its land-use strategy by creating a Land Use Framework. Policy development is the responsibility of a cross-ministry committee called Sustainable Resource and Environmental Management (SREM). AWA has been an invited participant for a number of related initiatives; we have participated in workshops and we have agreed to be a reviewer for the stewardship and principles group.

WATERSHED PROTECTION “Water is a more important resource to the people of Alberta than oil or gas, and it’s becoming more crucial all the time.” – Peter Lougheed, Calgary Herald, July 21, 2004

Bow Glacier at the Summit, source of the Bow River Watersheds and related issues are core concerns that continue to be incorporated in all aspects of AWA conservation work. We are concerned with the provincial government’s implementation of the Water for Life Strategy and intend to be watchdogs for the process as it unfolds. We participate in the AEN Water Caucus meetings and discussions, which deal with province-wide watershed and water-related issues. Our primary geographic focus is the South Saskatchewan River Basin, but we are monitoring related developments throughout the province. Water source protection issues are critical, and

our efforts to influence policy that will include restrictions on industrial logging, thus protecting water sources in the south Eastern Slopes, are constant. For the seventh year, AWA, in association with the University of Calgary, provided a program to students in the Masters of Teaching program. This year the content focused on Alberta’s Wild Rivers. AWA worked on the groundwater workshop planning committee, with representatives from Alberta Environment, the Bow River Basin Council, the City of Calgary, and the Alberta Liberals. This highly successful workshop, held in Calgary in April 2006, examined current knowledge of groundwater in the province and what steps need to be taken to avoid future management decisions that damage this vital yet under-appreciated resource. AWA also provided comments on the draft South Saskatchewan River Basin Water Management Plan. Although it recognizes many of the problems in the basin, particularly over- allocation of water, the plan will do little to solve these problems unless it is strengthened considerably. A comprehensive review of AWA’s involvement in water-related issue during the past 40 years was prepared as a summary of our work and commitment to the wise use of Alberta’s water resources.

S PECIAL A REAS W ATER S UPPLY P ROJECT

AWA continued opposition to the proposed Special Areas Water Supply Project, which would divert water from the Red Deer River, principally for irrigation purposes. This is the first proposed inter-basin transfer of raw water in Alberta and is projected to cost up to $200 million, with a return of no more than 70 cents to the dollar over 50 years. AWA is calling for a full environmental assessment, especially because of the massive inter-basin transfer, and also because downstream river flows would be substantially reduced, including flows through Dinosaur Provincial Park. As well, some remaining native prairie lands in east-central Alberta may be adversely affected by vastly increasing the irrigated areas.

COMMISSION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COOPERATION AWA observes this body, created under NAFTA, and participated in an evaluative survey.

PROTECTED AREAS PROGRESS No new protected areas were designated this year. AWA provided comments on the draft management plan for the Sheep Valley protected areas (Sheep River Provincial Park and Blue Rock Wildland Park), which seemed broadly acceptable. AWA also continued to campaign against new mineral leases that contradicted protected areas guidelines in the Rumsey Natural Area.

STRENGTH & CAPACITY A hallmark of AWA’s strength is its ability to adapt, reorganize and be relevant in times of change.

AWA continues to have an excellent staff complemented by individuals on its Board of Directors who volunteer and provide tremendous support to the research, advocacy, and outreach work that is required throughout the province. Work carried out by AWA’s conservation staff includes research, program planning and implementation, community forum presentations, position statements, research and development, displays, media liaison, speaking tours and presentations, and meetings with MLAs, government officials, industry representatives, relevant advisory committees, and concerned members. Staff are supported with continuing education opportunities to attend conferences and workshops. We work cooperatively with like-minded conservation organizations to avoid duplication of effort and to make our work more effective. Of particular significance to our conservation program has been a broadening and growth of our network. We have achieved greater exposure in the media and we have been able to document success in strategic communication activities. Our technological infrastructure has improved but will be upgraded in 2007. Ongoing improvements made to our databases and our ability to manage our member and supporter database has made a difference. Our members are the force and means of Alberta Wilderness Association. We continue to evaluate operations, develop capacity and reorganize based on strategic directions. AWA displays leadership capacity by reinvigorating its organization, developing staff skill, and renewing efforts with strategies and tactics to meet our mission. AWA is determined to continue to play a leadership role, build community partnerships, and focus on our grassroot connections. Our members and supporters are of utmost importance. Indeed, there is no more important role for AWA than to ensure that our members and the public at large are informed on wildland issues in a way that motivates people and leads to positive outcomes for wildlands and wildlife.

AWA’s conservation staff are (left to right) Nigel Douglas, David Samson, Joyce Hildebrand, and Shirley Bray. Shirley’s time is spent on grassland and parkland conservation issues as well as editing the Wild Lands Advocate and maintaining the Wilderness Resource Centre. Steve Swettenham (lower right) is responsible for the management and ongoing development of AWA’s web-based communication.

“From media conferences to trail work to fundraising dinners, AWA depends on individuals to help us be a relevant, financially independent, and strong force for the conservation of our wilderness resources.” - Christyann Olson

ALBERTA WILDERNESS RESOURCE CENTRE The Alberta Wilderness Resource Centre (AWRC) houses a unique and dynamic collection of information on the conservation of Wild Alberta from the 1960s to the present. It represents Alberta’s corporate memory of wilderness. Our mandate is to provide a comprehensive collection of materials that is publicly available for education, research, networking, and advocacy and that will facilitate the conservation of Alberta’s wilderness. The AWRC encompasses a well-organized in-house library; a comprehensive website; and our news journal, the Wild Lands Advocate, Alberta’s premiere wilderness conservation magazine since 1970. Our collection includes print and electronic materials, photographs, maps, and audiovisual materials; it contains information about Alberta wilderness, wild waters, and wildlife: their conservation, the impact of human activities, what we have done and what we can do through public involvement, and government policies and laws to protect our most important natural resources. Many of our materials are unique or difficult to locate elsewhere, making our collection very valuable for writers, researchers, educators and the interested general public. The AWRC is an important link in the network of citizens interested in wilderness issues in Alberta. In addition to work by AWA’s staff and Board, active correspondents among our members, supporters, and the general public provide regular information on areas and issues of concern. The AWRC’s comprehensive collection of materials on the conservation of Alberta’s wilderness will be a legacy for generations to come. AWA wishes to acknowledge the support of a number of individuals who made donations to the AWRC. The Resource Centre had 360 visits and 660 requests this year. We had excellent volunteer help throughout the year from the SAIT Library and Information Technology Program and from AWA volunteers.

WILD LANDS ADVOCATE The Wild Lands Advocate (WLA) is one of our most successful and valuable education and outreach tools. Our well-researched articles are written by staff and other writers chosen for their knowledge and expertise. Our mandate is to provide information and perspectives on Alberta’s wilderness that will facilitate its conservation through awareness and action; to provide news and information about the work of AWA and its supporters; and to tell the stories of Wild Alberta and the people involved in its conservation. The WLA is produced six times a year. It is distributed to almost 5,000 subscribers, both in print and electronically through our listserves, and is available free of charge on our website. Our magazine undergoes periodic redesign. In 2005 we began to produce the journal in colour, thanks to the generous support of our printer, Topline Printers. This has made a tremendous difference for our readers, who can now enjoy the full-colour photos that accompany our informative articles. Readers from around the world send us their comments about the value of the WLA and our letters to the editor section allows people to express their thoughts and views on the articles we publish. Topline Printers Inc. took the initiative this year to apply for and receive FSC certification. All our printed materials including the WLA are published on FSC-certified paper. AWA recently supported a nomination of Topline Printers Inc. for the Canadian Environmental Stewardship Awards.

WWW.ALBERTAWILDERNESS.CA AWA’s website is widely recognized for its outstanding content and ease of navigation. It acts as both an up-to-date source of information and an archive. Information covers our areas and issues of concern, our events, the latest news, our stewardship activities, and other information about AWA. The site undergoes periodic redesign and is maintained in- house. All staff members contribute information to the site and we continue to expand the amount of information we offer. Our vision for AWA’s website is to promote awareness of and facilitate action for the conservation of Wild Alberta through an easily accessible, high-quality venue.

ALBERTA WILDERNESS INSIDERS NETWORK AWA’s Wilderness Insiders Network (WiN) program gives people the opportunity to have an active voice in some of the decisions being made that affect Alberta’s wilderness and wildlife. Throughout the year, WiN alerts were sent out on a variety of issues, including the spring grizzly bear hunt, caribou habitat, and forestry management. There are currently 690 WiN participants; they are contacted by regular mail service as well as through the on-line listserve.

COMMUNITY WORK PLACEMENTS AWA provided workplace opportunities for students from the University of Calgary and SAIT. For the seventh year, AWA ran its fall education program for first-year student teachers with the University’s Masters of Teaching program. Sixteen student teachers received training on the subject of Alberta’s Wild Rivers, and then gave presentations to 109 classes in 29 schools, contacting 2,819 children. Some students from the program continued to deliver presentations on a voluntary basis after the program had finished. AWA recognizes support from HSCB for their support of our Masters of Teaching program. In the photo, Nigel Douglas and Vivian Pharis, who manage this community work placement program for AWA, are seen with students in the early round of classes, fall 2005. Practicums by GIS students as well as library science students from SAIT contributed to our mapping projects and AWRC cataloguing.

Financing Wilderness Protection

Financial statements prepared by AWA’s auditors, Roberts and Company Chartered Accountants, show that AWA completed this fiscal year in a strong financial position. The Association’s working capital remained strong throughout the year. We have worked to diversify our revenue sources. We are striving for increased financial independence through a strengthened member and supporter base.

REVENUE This past year, funds received from donations by members and supporters grew to 48%; fundraising represented 22% and grants 28% of total revenues. Membership grew during the year and reached 3,023, representing more than 165 communities in Alberta and including memberships across Canada and internationally.

AWA Revenue Sources 2005 - 2006

Fundraising Other 22% 2% General General Donations Donations Grants 48% Fundraising

Grants Other 28%

Granting Organizations

Alberta Community Initiatives Program Alberta Conservation Association Alberta Government STEP ASRPWF LaSalle Adams Fund Shell Environment Fund Wilburforce Foundation Yellowstone to Yukon Science Grant

Climb for Wilderness Platinum Sponsor Shell Canada Ltd

EXPENDITURES

AWA Expenditures 2005 - 2006

G&A Wilderness Stewardship & 13% Outreach

Development Development Wilderness 23% Stewardship & G&A Outreach 64%

The main focus of our organization is wilderness stewardship, conservation, and outreach, including the Alberta Wilderness Resource Centre. These costs remain the largest portion of our expenditures (64%). Development costs include expenses incurred in applying for grants as well as actual fundraising expenses. A significant portion of AWA funding is generated through fundraising events. Fundraising and gifts from donors allow AWA to be financially independent and free to speak out for wilderness protection. Development involves the costs for building a support and donor base, creating broader awareness of the association and its effort to meet its mandate of “Defending Wild Alberta through Awareness and Action.” General and administrative costs of 13% represent an efficient and carefully managed association. Rent, insurance, telephone, office equipment and supplies, bank charges, audit charges, travel, and non-recoverable GST are included in General and Administrative costs.

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Statement of Financial Position As at July 31, 2006

2006 Total

ASSETS

CURRENT Cash 196,866 Cash held in trust - Accounts receivable 7,317 Prepaids 4,559 Sales tax receivable 2,033 Donated items held for auction 9.029 $219,803

LIABILITIES

CURRENT Trust liability - Accounts payable and accrued 14,189 Payroll remittances payable 6,356 21,175

FUND BALANCES

Unrestricted 197,373 Restricted 1,255 198.628

$219,803

Statement of Operations

Statement of Operations and Changes in Fund Balances For the year ended July 31, 2006

2006 Total REVENUES General Donations 213,696 Grants 124,964 Fundraising Donations 95,656 Investment Income 3,532 Membership Revenue 2,305 Miscellaneous Revenue 1,539 Contracting Services - 441,694

EXPENSES Wilderness Stewardship and Outreach 315,253 General and Administration 114,054 Development 65,910 495,217

EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSES (53,523) FUNDS TRANSFER - FUND BALANCES, beginning of year 252,151 FUND BALANCES, end of year $198,628

ALBERTA WILDERNESS AND WILDLIFE TRUST Alberta Wilderness and Wildlife Trust is a permanent endowment fund for Alberta’s wilderness and an integral part of wilderness for tomorrow. Carefully nurtured, the fund will grow over the generations to come. Years from today, that fund will continue to provide for the care and protection of Alberta’s natural landscapes. The Trust began in 1986 as a memorial fund established as a tribute to biologist Orval Pall. Throughout the years, families seeking to remember their own loved ones have found solace and strength in devoting resources to the memorial fund, which was dedicated to support the protection of wilderness in Alberta. On the fifteenth anniversary of the fund, AWA established the Trust as an endowment fund with the Calgary Foundation in order to support the long-term sustainability of the Association. The Trust supports wilderness programs and research that contribute to the protection, understanding, and appreciation of wilderness, wild waters, and wildlife. The current fund balance is almost $24,000. Each year the endowment fund distribution is dedicated to the Annual Guest Lecture and the Wilderness Defender Awards.

A NNUAL G UEST L ECTURE

Each year in November, AWA hosts the Alberta Wilderness and Wildlife Trust Annual Lecture, given by a renowned guest speaker. The annual lecture is an opportunity to present the ideas of researchers in a field related to conservation of wilderness. The lecture is meant to challenge us as well as to inform. Dr. Jim Butler, the annual guest lecturer for 2005, spoke on the “Enigma of Wild Things.”

W ILDERNESS D EFENDER A WARDS

On the same evening as the annual guest lecture, we recognize outstanding achievement in conservation by individuals with the Alberta Wilderness Defender Awards. The Awards are dedicated to individuals who have inspired us with their love of Alberta’s wild lands, wild rivers, and wildlife, and with their efforts and achievements for conservation. Each individual recognized for his or her outstanding contribution to conservation in Alberta receives a plaque and is featured in our journal, the Wild Lands Advocate. The plaques are exhibited on a wall of recognition in our Calgary office, where they can be viewed by the public. These individuals have recognized that Alberta’s wilderness is among the most pristine and beautiful in the world and cannot be taken for granted. They know that our wild places are the source of our health, wealth, and quality of life and that we must take an active role in their conservation. This year, awards were presented to Richard Pharis, Dawn Dickinson, and Jim Butler.