Camrose Wildlife and Greenspace Stewardship Project About the CWGSP | History and Vision of the CWGSP | Supporters, Committee Members and Contacts Purple Martin Project | Summer Program | News

Background:

Camrose residents are fortunate to be able to enjoy an abundance and variety of wildlife. Wildlife is present because there are a variety of habitats within Camrose, some of which are protected. However, because of development and considerable habitat alteration, some species are declining or absent altogether.

Wildlife and their habitats provide many benefits to the City. First, wildlife provides educational opportunities for students of all ages. Second, wildlife and greenspace support many desirable recreational opportunities (eg. walking, wildlife viewing). Third, wildlife generates substantial economic benefits. Wildlife tourism, a growing activity in Canada, brings new dollars to rural communities which offer desired nature-related activities. For some people, a city’s wildlife and greenspace are critical factors in deciding to relocate to Camrose. Finally, wildlife and their habitats add to the quality of life for residents and make Camrose a great place to live.

History of the Stewardship Project:

In 2002, a group of citizens formed the Camrose Wildlife and Greenspace Stewardship Project. The committee is comprised of people from the Wildrose Outdoor Club, City of Camrose, Ducks Unlimited, University of Alberta – Augustana Campus, Camrose Ski Club, the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association, the Camrose Rotary Club and Tourism Camrose. With funding from the City and Fish and Game Association, and in-kind support from Augustana and Ducks Unlimited, the committee hired a stewardship coordinator each summer since 2002.

In the first year, we conducted species and habitat assessments and measured public support. In the fall of 2002, a preliminary Wildlife Stewardship Plan was endorsed by the Camrose City Council. In this plan, we presented results from a survey that showed that Camrosians had significant interest and support for wildlife:

For the past years, we have conducted educational events, analysed policy, implemented stewardship projects, and continued wildlife monitoring.

Vision of the Stewardship Project:

Our vision for wildlife and greenspace stewardship in Camrose is based on a future that includes the following:

Stewardship Coordinator conducting biodiversity research.

Goals and Objectives of the Stewardship Project:

To achieve the vision outlined above, we seek to accomplish several goals. These include:

1. To increase Camrose residents' awareness and understanding of wildlife and greenspace
   1. Provide educational opportunities about natural history (eg. interpretive events)
   2. Promote wildlife viewing opportunities (eg. guided walks, trails, signs)
   3. Provide opportunities for Camrose residents to become involved in wildlife stewardship activities (eg. volunteer projects; school naturescaping)
   4. Assess the potential for a collaborative interpretive centre that could serve as a focal point for education and a demonstration site for stewardship activities
   5. Monitor change in community awareness and support
   
   
   
2. To ensure wildlife and greenspace concerns are considered in planning and management
   1. Coordinate city activities and projects relevant to wildlife and greenspace (eg. integrate stewardship coordinator into city administration)
   2. Develop expertise related to wildlife and greenspace management and planning (eg. hire biologist, provide training for city staff)
   3. Protect or restore appropriate levels of existing natural habitats and native species (eg. reserve areas, appropriate development, native plants)
   4. Evaluate current management practises that affect wildlife habitat
   5. Implement wildlife enhancement projects for target species (eg. martin boxes)
   
   
   
3. To minimize conflicts with wildlife affecting public safety and property
   1. Monitor and document human-wildlife conflicts (eg. to detect trends)
   2. Educate stakeholders about the causes of, and strategies to avoid, nuisance species
   3. Develop a comprehensive nuisance wildlife management policy
   4. Refine existing and test new management strategies (eg. beaver control)
   
   
   
4. To encourage research on wildlife and habitats in Camrose
   1. Network with other urban centres to share stewardship ideas (eg. Lethbridge)
   2. Encourage scientific research to promote stewardship activities
   3. Continue surveys of species and habitats to determine trends (eg. martin survey)
   
   
   
5. To ensure long-term sustainability of stewardship projects
   1. Develop partnerships with other organizations (eg. funding, media, volunteers)
   2. Ensure long-term funding of stewardship activities
   3. Develop facilities that support educational, management, and administrative aspects of these activities

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