Respect key in celebrating our wild Alberta parklands

Jul 3, 2021 | 3:11 PM

It was hot, but the weather on July 1 still provided a great chance to encourage respectful use of central Alberta’s wild protected areas.

Red Deer River Naturalists, along with Nature Alberta, has created a joint initiative called Nature Central.

Organizers invited participants on Thursday to learn about the project at the Mary and Cliff Soper Natural Area, which is located just east of Blackfalds off Township Road 394. The area is 25-acres and was donated to Lacombe County by the Sopers in 2017.

“The purpose of this project is to celebrate protected areas in central Alberta,” says Shaye Hill, Naturalist in Residence. “Through exploration, non-consumptive use, and ecological understanding, what we want to do is get people out in the environment that’s right in their own backyard.”

Hill says areas are protected by various stakeholders such as Ducks Unlimited, Alberta Conservation Association, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Alberta Fish and Game Association, as well as counties.

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“Instead of going hundreds of kilometres away, why not find out what on some amazing properties right near your house?”

Rules for respecting these areas include day use and foot access only, no open fires, and not bringing dogs along. Trash should be carried out as well.

According to the project’s website, there are at least 10 accessible parkland areas that part of the project, and within 25 kilometres of Red Deer, plus many more within a close distance.

Funding for Nature Central is provided by the Red Deer River Naturalists and Eco Canada.

by rdnewsNOW staff

Respect key in celebrating our wild Alberta parklands

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