western region ( Prairie/ Boreal ) Yukon • Northwest Territories • Nunavut • Alberta • Saskatchewan • Manitoba
volume 30, number 2, 2009
Award-winning collaboration
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Recognizing that collaboration and innovation go hand in hand, staff at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre partnered with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), the City of Lethbridge, and Lethbridge area schools to develop and produce new interpretive signage for the Elizabeth Hall Wetlands located within the City of Lethbridge. The collaborative effort turned out so well that the signs are earning accolades. The markers were recently recognized with a silver Award of Excellence by Interpretation Canada, a national organization that recognizes the highest quality interpretation. “We were really pleased that our new signage turned out so well, but we never expected to receive an award for it,” says Coreen Putman, nature interpretation co-ordinator for the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. “The Elizabeth Hall Wetlands are the only naturally occurring wetlands within the City of Lethbridge and
their close proximity to such a large urban population makes them invaluable. Having high-quality interpretive signage on site helps us with our goal of educating and engaging visitors of all ages.” DUC was involved with this project from the very beginning and saw it as an opportunity to add value to the community and the Nature Centre. “This project was a natural fit for us,” says Don Watson, head of habitat retention for DUC. “We saw a huge advantage to having our messaging in an area that is used to bringing nature into classrooms. Establishing a conservation ethic in children is vital to the future of Canada.” Putman agrees. She says getting children involved was important in understanding what type of messages and images were needed. “We challenged Grade 5 students to participate in a poster competition about why wetlands are important to them,” she says. “Most of the posters showed pictures of wildlife and emphasized that wetlands not only serve an important function in preserving water quality, they also provide a home for many birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. The sign designer, Liz Saunders of Sandpiper Ecological Research and Illustration, used the posters to help design highly interactive signage that focuses on what can be seen in a wetland environment.” S Collaboration on interpretive signage yields national recognition.
Saskatchewan tops DUC volunteer charts
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Wherever you find Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), you’ll find wetland conservation hard at work. In the heart of the Prairies, the province of Saskatchewan is proving it’s serious about stopping wetland loss. DUC receives its greatest per capita support from Saskatchewan – an impressive achievement for a province that as of Jan. 1, 2008, held just three per cent of the national population. A large network of dedicated volunteers assists in raising funds to support DUC’s on-the-ground conservation efforts, scientific research and education programs. These people are important members of the DUC family. “We are fortunate to have such fantastic support here in Saskatchewan,” says Keith MacIntosh, a DUC fundraising manager in the province. “These volunteers, whether they’re organizing a banquet or managing a Sealed Bid Auction, are deeply committed to the cause and have raised significant funds for DUC’s wetland conservation work.” One sterling example of the province’s impressive track record is the Saskatoon Men’s Committee. A large chapter with
approximately 20 volunteers, the Saskatoon Men’s Committee recently hosted its 30th annual fundraising banquet. Geoff Topp, one of the chapter’s founding members and current chair, says this long-standing success can be attributed to a natural spirit of volunteerism and genuine concern for the environment. “Saskatchewan is known as a great volunteer province and the support we get is amazing,” he says. “In our chapter, there are a lot of volunteers that have been around for 15 to 20-plus years.” According to Statistics Canada, Topp’s belief about the community spirit of Saskatchewanians is bang on. A 2004 study found the province had a volunteer rate of 54 per cent – the highest in the country. With so many eager volunteers in the province, what draws them to DUC? Topp says the reality of a world without wetlands motivates people like him to make a difference by joining the DUC team. “There are a lot of people concerned about water supplies and other environmental factors that are crucial to our province,” he says. “I’ve seen water holes dry up
during dry years and seen the effects it has on waterfowl and wildlife. And, I’ve seen what DUC has done over the years to help. I think it’s very important to people that they know the money they raise is staying in the province and that they see the results of their efforts.” In addition to contributing to one’s community and supporting wetland conservation, Topp says volunteering for DUC is just plain fun. That, more than anything, he says has kept him and so many others in the province coming back. “As a volunteer, you become friends with a lot of people over the years, and that’s a big reason why I’m still here,” Topp says with a laugh. “I didn’t imagine I’d be here 30 years, but here I am!” If there’s something that can be learned from chapters like the Saskatoon Men’s Committee and Saskatchewan’s entire team of volunteers, it’s that the spirit of volunteerism is contagious. And, with passion, persistence and people power, great progress can be made. S
Alberta teacher pays tribute to longtime Ducks volunteer
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Each year, Colin Saker takes groups of Grade 4 and 5 students on a tour of wetlands near Chauvin, on the Alberta-Saskatchewan border. It’s a voyage of discovery for these students, who learn about the waterfowl and waterbirds that nest along the shores of Reflex Lake. His efforts were recently recognized by a teacher of one of those classes. Colin Saker in the dark coat, has been helping people understand the importance of wetlands more than 20 years.
“The students fell under the spell of a man passionate about the environment and left a wetland having absorbed more than a few facts,” says St. Thomas Aquinas teacher Elaine Willette-Larsen. In her written tribute, she added that Saker showed the students how to carefully view a wetland and taught them about the endangered piping plover. Saker has been a volunteer with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) for 20 years and has organized the Chauvin fundraising banquet for almost as long. His dinners have set records for a town that size, with attendance frequently higher than the population of the town itself. “I’m a duck hunter and I have always been an advocate for ducks,” says Saker. “This is because I believe in conservation and because I want my children and grandchildren to have the same opportunities as I have had.”
He’s been conducting tours for a number of years, carefully timing them not to disturb the nesting habitat of the shorebirds. His tours complement DUC support of the science curriculum with information and class materials. He says the kids soak up the information like sponges. “We are helping turn the kids into stewards,” he says. “We show them how to approach a wetland in an environmentally sensitive manner. And as DUC has completed a habitat conservation project on Reflex Lake, we can show them how DUC helps preserve nesting habitat.” Saker adds he was very humbled by the tribute from the school, which was read at the Provost-area dinner this fall. “There’s always something new to share, and with environmental awareness continuing to grow, I am getting calls from classes all over Alberta. I will probably keep doing this as long as I have the opportunity to do so.” S
western region (prairie/boreal)
Saskatchewan hosts EG&S symposium
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In the Warner Brothers cartoons, Yosemite Sam often exclaims, “There’s gold in them thar hills.” Now a group of conservation organizations and industry leaders led by Ducks Unlimited Various levels of government, conservation organizations and industry and business Canada (DUC) is proving to landowners and agricultural leaders are all recognizing there are benefits to maintaining a healthy environment. producers the gold is in maintaining a healthy environment. These benefits are often referred to as ecological goods and services. “Often when people are looking at land they only put a We all enjoy living in a province with clean water to drink, clear lakes for fishing, value on the area that is being used directly for agriculture or fresh air and plenty of space to enjoy nature at its finest. However, as we develop other developments,” says Joel Peterson, head of industry and and grow the economy of the province, we are losing many of these natural government relations for DUC in Saskatchewan. “We want benefits at an alarming rate. them to see the ecological value in conserving and demonstrate Since we all benefit from these natural features, we all must find ways to how they can be more profitable by being environmentally reimburse those landowners and businesses for using environmentally sound responsible.” management practices in their operations. Peterson is quick to explain that there is a need to link the The issues are: How do we quantify the value of these services and who is environment to the economy. He says a healthy environment responsible to pay the producer? produces commodities such as clean drinking water, provides One way to save money on new infrastructure is by offering incentives for drought and flood control, purifies the air, provides habitat for being environmentally responsible. For example, when faced with spending up wildlife and domesticated animals, and provides recreational to $6 billion on water treatment plants, the city of New York chose, instead, to opportunities for people. He adds these commodities all add invest $1.4 billion to conserve and protect its upstate watershed in the Catskills. up to the “natural capital” and play an important role in the The watershed plan accomplished the same goals at a lower cost and some of the economic landscape of the province. investment was used to pay landowners and communities who implemented the DUC teamed up with other conservation groups like the plan. Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation and industry leaders from Another way to preserve natural capital is for conservation groups like DUC to the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and Agricultural pay landowners to place conservation easements (CEs) on their properties. The Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS), to host a owner maintains the title to the property and is still able to use it as part of their symposium on the subject of ecological goods and services business but they agree to keep some of the development to a minimum. These (EG&S) and what it means for landowners. CEs help provide natural habitat for wildlife and preserve the natural beauty of “In the past, agriculture and environmental groups have the land. not always seen eye to eye. This symposium brings us all together and we have been able to see that we have more in common with groups like Ducks and Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation than first thought. The partnership has shown that we are able to work together to find solutions that benefit all of our members,” says Nial Kuyek, general manager for APAS. “APAS intends to enhance the partnerships developed at the symposium and work toward a province-wide EG&S program that clearly recognizes the important role that agriculture plays in ensuring the quality of life across our province.” The ecological goods and services symposium was a panel discussion with representatives from across the country. It focused on a number of current and proposed programs that recognize the contribution and value of EG&S. “Everyone has a stake in conserving our natural capital: farmers, industry, rural and urban communities, conservation groups and others. I think that we were able to have a very open and frank discussion because of that,” says Peterson. “There is no one program that addresses everyone’s needs. To be successful, we must be able to adapt programs and balance the best interests and practices of the industry with the needs of society and the environment.” S
EG&S explained
Ranchers challenge the status quo
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re-establish native varieties on his ranch. Pharo also advocates calving in sync with nature and selecting the type of cow that works best with each ranch’s forage resources. Pharo challenged producers to consider: “Are you working for your cows or are they working for you?” Challenging the status quo was the theme of these events and the reason that 280 producers attended the series. In addition to discussing traditional cow-calf operations, producers heard how some ranchers are adopting alternative business models that include grassland conservation efforts and making a profit: Dave Kerr of Lashburn shared “the fine print” of his custom grazing and leased herd operations, while Lorne Schroeder described the early days of operating an organic farm and feedlot near LeRoy. While much of the day was focused around profit, Pharo emphasized another important component to sustainability: enjoyment. “To be sustainable, a ranch needs to be both profitable and enjoyable.” He adds, “There’s no long-term future for a ranch that doesn’t make a profit; and if you don’t enjoy what you do, how likely are your kids to return to the business?” DUC salutes our cattle producer partners who are finding ways to make their profession profitable while improving the health of the land, and who know that what’s good for their land is good for their business. S
It’s no surprise that ranchers are some of the hardest-working partners when it comes to conserving grassland in Saskatchewan. Yet making a profit in the cattle industry is a difficult prospect these days and many ranchers are struggling to make ends “meat.” Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), along with several industry and government partners, sponsored a series of producer workshops across Saskatchewan to discuss the different ways that ranchers are bringing black to their bottom lines while preserving the landscape. “Only 10 to 15 per cent of ranchers make a profit every year,” says Kit Pharo, who spoke at all four events in Redvers, Kenaston, Hafford and Meacham in January. “What’s different about these ranchers is that they plan to make a profit each year and are prepared to manage accordingly.” Pharo, who operates a large ranch in the high plains desert near Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, explains: “It’s especially important for commercial cow-calf producers to manage their input costs and resources. These producers are essentially working in a commodity market, and controlling their cost of production often makes the greatest contribution to the bottom line.” Making the most of his forage resources is key to Pharo’s input management strategy. Through a rotational grazing plan, he strives to increase grass production by providing time for the grass to grow and to rest; to increase the amount of grass that is stockpiled for winter grazing; and to provide an opportunity to
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Are you working for your cows, or are they working for you?
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Natural habitat boasts biodiversity at its best
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“Every year, Dr. Bird comes across moths that are new to science or new to Alberta. His research underlines why habitat conservation is so important,” says McFarlane. “The research is providing solid evidence as to the unrealized value and potential of conserving natural lands in our agricultural landscapes.” S
What do Alberta ducks and moths have in common? Almost nothing, unless you are talking to Dr. Charles Bird. Bird is a botanist and entomologist. He is currently documenting moth species in Alberta and his work is helping to create a better understanding of the importance of conserving native habitat in the province. “Natural areas not disturbed by grazing or cultivation provide the largest diversity of native plants and that diversity is the key to my research,” explains Bird. “Where the plant life is diverse, the moth populations are diverse.” A retired university professor and former cattleman, Bird has collected, identified and documented about 30,000 moth specimens over the last eight years. His data reflects the findings of waterfowl research done by Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC). Ian McFarlane, a conservation program specialist with DUC, says the research shows upland plant cover and diversity is essential to nesting and breeding success for waterfowl. He also points out that plant diversity is critical for wetland health, with different species of plants playing different ecological roles for other species of insects, birds and animals. Jim Potter
This is the ninth year Dr. Bird will set moth traps in about a dozen sites in the aspen parkland of Alberta. He conducts the research at several Ducks Unlimited Canada projects including the Lowden Springs Conservation Area and Buffalo Lake Moraine Conservation Area, both near Stettler.
western region (prairie/boreal)
Why I volunteer
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Wright says in the past 25 years he has slowly seen a A dedicated Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) volunteer was transformation in the organization. recently recognized for a quarter century of service to the “When DU moved forward and broadened its scope, I knew this organization. George Wright was honoured for his commitment was the right thing to do,” he explains. “DU is about more than to the organization at the Manitoba Peace Officers Banquet at the ducks – it is about conservation and research and the protection RCMP D Division headquarters in Winnipeg. of lands and marshes that are so vitally important to our very He shared his passion for conservation and explained to the existence and the species that call those lands home whether it be crowd why he continues to volunteer today. animals, birds, fish, flowers or grasses.” In 1983, Wright lived in Morden, Man., and was introduced to a Wright says he began to realize the importance and impact group of sportsmen who were excited about a DUC banquet they of the organization when he began attending workshops and attended in neighbouring Glenboro. They were convinced that a listening to presentations by DUC scientist and technicians. committee could be formed and a banquet could also be held in “The positive impression of their hometown. this research and the benefits Wright’s curiosity led him of projects with landowners are to the first committee meeting particularly important,” he says. and with a better understanding As Wright’s journey continued of what DUC was all about, and his knowledge of DUC he was satisfied that he had a increased, he became curious contribution to make. about the annual financial report “I was invited to join this group of the company. What he found and admittedly, I was curious there also impressed him. about DU. My impression up “I observed that the amount of to this point in time was that it money spent on administration was a rich man’s duck hunting was reasonable and when club and only those with money combined with investments in would be invited to attend a projects and education, I was banquet,” Wright says. “I was satisfied that the company was aware of several DU projects in George Wright has been a DUC volunteer for 25 years. being well managed and most importantly, that the monies I southern Manitoba and with a focus on water and conservation personally helped raise were being properly spent,” he says. “The management DU was a natural fit for me as I enjoy the outdoors success of any company is contingent on its human resources and hunt and fish as well.” and to a large degree the work of its volunteers, which is a The first Morden banquet was very successful and Wright has major contributor to the success of this company. The board been volunteering for DUC ever since. should never take its volunteers for granted and rest assured, we “I am grateful to the company for offering me a unique volunteers are watching and monitoring your decisions as you opportunity to volunteer,” he says. “I have met and worked with move the company forward.” S many excellent contributor service representatives and volunteers over the years and I am truly the beneficiary for the personal growth that I have experienced.”
70 years of conservation!
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In December, DUC staff based in Saskatchewan gathered with executive and research staff from the Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research to celebrate 70 years of habitat conservation and to discuss the challenges that lay ahead. S
Lee Moats is going farming!
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After 20 years of working on many of Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC) agricultural programs in Saskatchewan, Lee Moats is retiring. Moats joined the organization in 1989 as the provincial agrologist. Over the years he has held various positions and played an important role in developing and implementing many of the agricultural extension programs the organization uses when working with landowners on the Prairies. “Lee was instrumental in forming the first winter wheat producer association in Saskatchewan and was a charter director. DUC corporately, and Lee personally, are often credited for saving the winter wheat program at the University of Saskatchewan. Varieties produced in this program occupy approximately 85 per cent of the area seeded to winter wheat varieties on the prairies,” says Paul Thoroughgood, regional agrologist with DUC. Moats is reluctant to take all the credit, quickly pointing out that many of the positive changes and accomplishments he has seen in the last two decades are the result of a team effort and the hard work of many dedicated staff and volunteers. “I’ve had some great experiences and have learned a few things over the last 20 years. In some ways it seems like only yesterday that I moved from the Saskatchewan Department of Agriculture to DUC,” Moats says about his career. “I suppose that feeling comes from having the chance to work for an organization that makes it easy to come to work every day. It comes from having the chance to work for, and with, a great group of co-workers and volunteers. And, it comes from working for a cause that I’ve truly stood behind. To everyone involved in Ducks Unlimited, I thank you for a great 20 years and wish you well in your conservation efforts.” Moats plans to continue farming in the Gray and Riceton district south of Regina and he is looking forward to spending more time with his family and friends. S
Discover the Missouri Coteau during Saskatchewan’s 11th Annual Native Prairie Appreciation Week Workshop/Tour based out of Moose Jaw, SK June 23-25, 2009. To register, or for more information, contact Daryl Nazar (306) 569-0424 or d_nazar@ducks.ca.
western region ( Prairie/ Boreal )
The Flyway newsletter is published by Ducks Unlimited Canada Oak Hammock Marsh Conservation Centre P.O. Box 1160, Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0 tel (204)467-3000 fax (204)467-9028 toll-free 1(800)665-DUCK Please direct your inquiries to the following: Eastern Region Atlantic: Kelly MacDonald Quebec: Bernard Filion Ontario: Lynette Mader Western Region Prairie-Western Boreal: Marci Dube Pacific: Wendy Fister
Flyway production staff Director of Communications and Marketing: Madeleine Arbez Editor: Duncan Morrison Assistant: Deb Menard Art Director: Tye Gregg Graphic Designers: Lindsay Pikta-Marie, Aquila Samson, Jeope Wolfe © Ducks Unlimited Canada, 2009 Printed in Canada on 100% recycled paper including 100% post-consumer fibres
Area Contacts Marketing/Communications Anh Hoang, Western Boreal Karli Reimer, Manitoba Lori Gasper, Saskatchewan Kristina Dembinski, Alberta
(780) 489-8110 (204) 467-3279 (306) 665-7356 (780) 489-2002
Manager of Operations, Manitoba Bob Grant, Brandon (204) 729-3500 Manager of Operations, Saskatchewan Brent Kennedy, Regina (306) 569-0424 Manager of Operations, Alberta Dave Kay, Edmonton
(780) 489-2002
Education Rosemarie Ferjuc, Calgary Barb Hanbidge, Saskatoon Bob Laidler, Oak Hammock
(403) 476-1877 (306) 665-7356 (204) 467-3000
Western Boreal Program Eric Butterworth
(780) 489-8110
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