SEN Info Bulletin

May 14, 2009

If you have received this bulletin from another source, and would like to subscribe directly, send an email to sen@link.ca, with a message or subject "please subscribe". If you would like to unsubscribe, send an email with a message or subject "please unsubscribe". If your email client doesn't display this bulletin correctly, you can view this document on the internet at http://www.econet.sk.ca/bulletin/20090514.html. If you have comments or suggestions, send an email to sen@link.ca.

News

Action Alert

Events

Opportunities/Calls for Delegates/Proposals

Volunteer Opportunities

News

SEN Annual General Meeting To Be Held in Craik

The Saskatchewan Eco-network will be holding its Annual General Meeting at the Craik Eco-Centre on Sunday, June 7th, 2009 from 1 - 4 pm. Join members of the SEN as we meet to discuss directions for the network and the events of the past year.

Guest Speaker will be Lynn Oliphant: “Pessimism of the Intellect – Optimism of the Will” – How to be an Environmentalist in the 21st Century.

The Annual General Meeting will follow our guest speaker. We will facilitate carpooling to Craik – if you are interested, please contact the office at sen@link.ca or phone 306 652-1275.

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International Biodiversity Day: May 22nd

The theme for this year's International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) is Invasive Alien Species - one of the greatest threats to biodiversity, and to the ecological and economic well-being of society and the planet.

The Saskatchewan Boreal Forest Learning Centre will be conducting activities in Saskatchewan to promote the event. On May 22nd in Saskatoon, at a local grade school, members of the Saskatchewan Boreal Forest Learning Centre's Partnership Network will deliver presentations on Urban Awareness which will include awareness of the special features of the Saskatchewan boreal forest region, global environmental issues including deforestation - with particular focus on Saskatchewan, and awareness of the bison whom reside in the area.

On May 23rd, in the heart of the Saskatchewan boreal forest, participants will journey from Saskatoon northward and enjoy the oppotunity to experience this unique environmental region of Canada more personally in Forest Experience. Individuals will be exposed directly to the diversity that exists within the boreal forest region itself and will learn much about its features. Participants will have the opportunity to hike along a network of trails that connect the various parts of the area, located 20 km NE of Big River on the Ness Creek Festival site. Workshops will be offered to encourage an awareness of the environment and also provide young spruce saplings for people to plant amidst the thriving boreal forest.

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City Incentives Should Encourage Bike, Bus Usage

The StarPhoenix, May 14, 2009

Saskatoon - In a wintry prairie city whose hardy and environmentally conscious year-round, two-wheeled commuters are joined by thousands of others come spring to record Canada's second-highest percentage of cyclists, it makes good sense to adopt civic policies that accommodate them.

The suggestion this week by Lisa Labreque, a worker at a downtown office tower, that the city install a series of enclosed bike lockers in Saskatoon's core might not be practical for a city this size, but speaks to a pressing need that should be addressed.

Ms. Labreque said dozens of others who work in her building stopped biking after the owner of the officer tower told them they no longer could bring their bikes inside to keep them secure for the day.

Full article: http://www.thestarphoenix.com/Sports/City+incentives+should+encourage+bike+usage/1594644/story.html

A Saskatoon downtown store, 2nd Nature, does have a commuter locker service, where people working or shopping downtown can store their bike at the store. It's $2 per day or $30 a month. Phone (306) 249-2424 for information.

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Action Alerts

Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan Public Consultation

The dates for community consultations and stakeholder meetings have been set for May and June. Dates and locations of all community consultations and stakeholder meetings are available on the Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan Consultation website at http://www.saskuranium.ca.

The consultation website contains the full UDP report, presentation materials, online input opportunities, and ultimately, the results of the public input; Individuals and stakeholders who want to provide input but don't want to attend a meeting or don't have Internet access can send written submissions through regular mail to: "The Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan" P.O. Box 7, Regina, SK, S4P 2Z5. Individuals and stakeholders can call toll-free (1-877-791-4667) to request a copy of the Uranium Development Partnership Report or Executive Summary. Stakeholders can call the same toll-free number to register for a one-on-one presentation to the Consultation Chair at one of the stakeholder meetings in May and June. Individuals and stakeholders can send written submissions either on-line, by email or by regular mail until July 31st, 2009.

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Crown Lands Campaign

Last fall the Government of Saskatchewan announced a program to sell 1.6 million acres of Crown land (an area equal in size to PEI) to current leasees at a price of 10% below market value. While lessees are not required to purchase their leases they have been told in writing from the Government that they should know that it is the government's intention to see saleable land in the hands of private ownership.

These sales are not reviewed by the ministry of Environment prior to sale and there is well over 1 million acres of native grasslands, aspen parkland and wetlands to be sold. These native public lands are critical in preserving our native flora and fauna in Saskatchewan. The lack of concern being expressed by Saskatchewan residents is being interpreted as support for the sales program.

For information on what you can do on, go to the Nature Saskatchewan website at http://www.naturesask.ca/?s=news&p=news&id=397.

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Coming Events

Regina

Baillie Birdathon

May 23rd, Last Mountain Bird Observatory

Plan to get together with others to enjoy a morning of birding around Last Mountain Bird Observatory, located in Last Mountain Regional Park just west of Govan! There will be a BBQ ($5-10) hosted by the park. If you would like to help raise funds for Last Mountain Bird Observatory, you can register for the Baillie Birdathon and find sponsors for the number of species you see (or sponsor yourself!) or you can sponsor our LMBO Birdathon leader, Joseph Kotlar. A tax receipt is issued for all sponsorships of $10 or more.

To register for the Baillie Birdathon (and receive a great t-shirt!), call Bird Studies Canada (1-888-448-2473 ext.210), or visit BSC at http://www.bsc-eoc.org to download your Birdathon Participant kit.

More details at: http://www.naturesask.ca/?s=news&p=events&id=398.

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Is Renewable Doable? with Presenter Peter Prebble

May 27th, 7 pm, Knox Metropolitan Church, 2340 Victoria Ave.

Peter Prebble is the Director of Energy and Water Policy with the Saskatchewan Environmental Society and a former NDP Cabinet Minister and Legislative Secretary to the Premier on Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Development. Peter has been involved in Saskatchewan’s environmental movement for over 30 years and is a long time opponent of nuclear power in Saskatchewan.

Sponsored by Clean Green Regina. For more information contact nonukesregina@gmail.com and check out http://www.cleangreensask.ca.

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Life Cycle Costing (LCC) for Green Building Design – Seminar/Workshop

May 29th, 8:30 – 4:30 (8:15 Sign In/Coffee, 12pm Lunch included) Century Plaza, 1920 Rose St.

The seminar/workshop will act as an introduction to ASTM and ISO Building Economics Standards and impart the skills necessary to apply the Life Cycle Costing (LCC) methodology to the evaluation and analysis of investments in buildings, specifically in the field of energy efficiency and Green Buildings.

For more information, or to register please visit: http://www.cagbc.org/database/rte/LCC%20Workshop.pdf.

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Nature Saskatchewan Spring Meet

May 29th - May 31st

Nature Saskatchewan is celebrating its 60th Anniversary this year. The Spring Meet will be hosted by Nature Regina. The keynote speaker at the gala dinner will be Robert Bateman, and a major field trip to the Last Mountain Lake Bird Observatory is planned. Details can be found on the Nature Saskatchewan web site http://www.naturesask.ca.

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Robert Bateman: Guest Speaker for Nature Sask's Gala

May 29th, 5:30 Conexus Arts Centre Convention Hall

Robert Bateman, renowned international wildlife artist and conservationist, will be the guest speaker for Nature Saskatchewan's 60th Anniversary Gala Evening. Reception: 5:30 pm, Banquet 6:30 pm. Tickets $50. For tickets and information, phone 1-800-667-4668 or 306-780-9273, or email info@naturesask.ca. The funds raised will help support the Last Mountain Lake Bird Observatory.

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Saskatoon

Results Based Regulatory Review Meeting

May 14th, 7 pm, Saskatoon Inn, Alberta Room

On behalf of the Ministry of the Environment, Clifton and Associates are planning a follow-up meeting to discuss the regulatory review of the Environmental Regulations. The Government is proposing what they are calling a "Results Based Regulatory Review" as their model. Details at http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/Regulations.

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We Are Many Action Summit

May 19th, 1 – 4 pm (reception at 12:30pm), TCU Place

WAM is hosting a WAM Action Summit on May 19th (1-4 p.m., with a reception at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate disparate bus schedules) at TCU Place in downtown Saskatoon (thanks to TCU Place for generously donating space for the event!). We've scheduled the event so that it coincides with gaps in the parliamentary and legislative schedules; we'll be inviting Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Mayor, City Councillors, school board officials, community groups, members of the public, university students and professors, etc. We're also inviting high school teachers to bring students after having discussed the two WAM Action Plans (on transportation and bottled water, respectively) prior to the event. Students will share feedback in an interactive forum and agree upon a plan of action/timeline for the spring and summer of 2009, on both a school-wide and civic level -- and, of course, we'll decide which topics we'd like to cover at our fall summit. RSVP to volunteer@wearemanyfestival.com if you would like a copy of the Action Plans ahead of time. We hope to see you there!

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Dr. Gabor Mate Workshop

May 19th, AIS Saskatoon

May 19th is World Hepatitis Day. AIDS Saskatoon will be commemorating it with a social and workshop with bestselling author Dr. Gabor Mate. PLUS see our award-winning Hepatitis C poster, and have some tasty liver cake. Details on the poster at http://www.aidssaskatoon.ca.

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Life Cycle Costing (LCC) for Green Building Design – Seminar/Workshop

May 28th, 8:30 – 4:30 (8:15 Sign In/Coffee, 12pm Lunch included) Kelsey Institute, Room 312.1, Idylwyld and 33rd Street

The seminar/workshop will act as an introduction to ASTM and ISO Building Economics Standards and impart the skills necessary to apply the Life Cycle Costing (LCC) methodology to the evaluation and analysis of investments in buildings, specifically in the field of energy efficiency and Green Buildings.

For more information, or to register please visit: http://www.cagbc.org/database/rte/LCC%20Workshop.pdf.

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Core Neighbourhood Youth Co-op Dinner and Auction

May 28th, Louis', U. of S. Campus

The Core Neighbourhood Youth Co-op is holding their annual dinner and auction next month. 5:30 pm Cocktails and silent auction; 6:30 pm Supper; 8:30 Live Auction. Tickets are $40. Please contact Kayla Hrynewich at 306.665.3889 http://www.cnyc.ca.

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2009 North American Indigenous Food Symposium

June 4th - 6th, Muskoday First Nation and Travelodge Hotel

Whether you're interested in knowing more about issues of food safety/sovereignty or just want to connect and create change, then this symposium is for you. Join community leaders, farmers, teachers, policy makers and working groups for a three day gathering to advance efforts in support of the revitalization and protection of traditional and local food system. For more information contact: Alex 966-2027. To register contact: 966-5539.

Registration Fee (includes all meals and travel to Muskoday). After May 6th: 400.00. Early Bird April 8th-May 6th: 325.00. Students/seniors/low income: 125.00.

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Spring into Action Workshop

June 8th -9th, University of Saskatchewan

The two-day Spring into Action workshop aims to bring together university faculty, environmental NGOs, First Nations and Métis educational organizations, school district representatives, and individuals from relevant Ministries (e.g. Education; Environment) to network and engage in consultation on the matter of education for sustainable development.

Detailed information is available on the School of Environment and Sustainability website at http://www.usask.ca/sens/ Check the Events link (bottom right corner).

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Forest Insect & Disease Conference

June 18 - 19, 2009, Saskatoon

The Saskatchewan Invasive Species Council is presenting the Forest Insect & Disease Conference held in Saskatoon on June 18th - 19th. May 15th is the deadline to register. For the registration form and more info, visit http://www.saskinvasives.ca/.

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Other

Webinar on Water Issues

May 15th, 1:30 Saskatchewan time.

You are invited to participate in the first Safe Drinking Water Foundation (SDWF)/Advanced Aboriginal Water Treatment Team (AAWTT) Webinar. Tony Steinhauer, founding member of the AAWTT, will be presenting on Due Diligence May 15th, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. in AB, SK and the majority of the NWT.

Please send an e-mail to info@safewater.org to register for the webinar!

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Jim Harding Lectures

May 20th, Moose Jaw; May 21st, Swift Current

Jim Harding will be speaking in Southern Saskatchewan at two public meetings in May: Wednesday May 20th at Moose Jaw Public Library Theatre, 461 Langdon Crescent, Moose Jaw, from 7 to 9 pm. Library Phone: (306) 692-2787; and Thursday May 21st at Swift Current Comprehensive High School, School Lecture Theatre, 1100 - 11th Ave NE, Swift Current, SK, 7 to 9 pm. School Phone: (306) 773-2801.

More information on the No Nukes Canada website: http://jimharding.brinkster.net/.

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Bert Pitzel: Workshop & Discussion Session

May 17th - May 27th

Yorkton May 24th , 7pm St. Gerard's hall (adjoined to Catholic Church)

Estevan May 25th t.b.a.

Swift Current May 27th , 7pm at Eastside Church of God.

These presentations are open to the public.

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Should Nuclear Power Be Part of Saskatchewan's Future?

June 2nd, 7 - 9 pm, Fort Qu'Appelle Legion Hall

An Important Debate and Discussion with Walter Keyes, nuclear advocate, and Jim Harding, sustainable energy advocate will take place Tuesday, June 2nd at Fort Qu'Appelle Legion. Sponsored by Fort Qu'Appelle Kairos. Everyone welcome.

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Prairie Wilderness First Aid Course

June 12 - 14, Val Marie, SK

The Prairie Learning Centre is offering a Prairie Wilderness First Aid course in Grasslands National Park. Participants will receive a Red Cross Advanced Wilderness First Aid Certificate, a wilderness first aid manual, a prairie-focussed first aid manual, a wilderness first aid kit and a "how to poop on the prairie kit".

Cost of the course is $275. Prerequisites include: Standard First Aid, CPR and AED. Come out to learn First Aid and to enjoy the many native flowers in Grasslands National Park. For more information contact the Prairie Learning Centre at: prairie@chinooksd.ca or 306-298-4495.

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RCEN AGA 2009: Cities and Biodiversity

June 12th - 14th, Edmonton, AB

Under the theme of Cities and Biodiversity, speakers at the 2009 RCEN Annual General Assembly (AGA) will explore the relationship between urban areas and biodiversity: from the impact of their demand for resources, to the possibilities of growing more food locally and the benefits of natural areas within cities. The last day of the Assembly will dovetail with the opening of the ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability World Congress. Visit the RCEN's AGA 2009 webpage at http://www.rcen.ca/AGA/2009/index.html. Members of the RCEN can register at a discounted rate. Spaces are limited, please register before May 8th.

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In Search of the Ram's Head: Nature Day Tour

June 13th, Maurice Street Wildlife Sanctuary (near Nipawin)

Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan board member John Hauer will be leading a day tour through the Maurice Street Wildlife Sanctuary. The tour is tentatively scheduled to start at 10 a.m. from the Kentucky Fried Chicken at 121 Nipawin Road East in Nipawin. The Maurice Street Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 17 km northwest of Nipawin, SK and is home to a diverse array of plants and animals, including the provincially-rare ram's head lady's slipper (Cypripedium arietinum), which we hope to see blooming, as well as the large yellow lady's slipper (Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens), which we may also spot in bloom.

There is no cost to attend this tour, but everyone must register so that we can plan accordingly. To register or for more information, please contact John Hauer at (306) 878-8812.

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ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability World Congress

June 14th - 18th, Edmonton, AB

The ICLEI World Congress 2009, June 14-18 in Edmonton, Alberta, will showcase ICLEI members’ vast work on advancing sustainability, for and about local governments. The five-day event will be an opportunity to learn about the achievements of the most advanced cities and towns in the world, and to build upon past successes to advance local action for sustainability. Join mayors, local governments, and colleagues, as more than 800 delegates worldwide come together in Edmonton. The program will be enriched by global strategists sharing their vision on the opportunities and challenges for local governments in the coming decade. Visit http://www.iclei.org/worldcongress2009 for registration details.

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Going to Grasslands

June 20th, Grasslands Park, Val Marie

The Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan will be hosting its annual summer field tour in Grasslands National Park on June 20th. Grasslands National Park represents one of the largest intact parcels of native prairie in Canada and is a biodiversity treasure trove, hosting hundreds of plant and animal species – including some of the rarest species in Canada. Complete details at http://www.npss.sk.ca/events.php.

Complete details at http://www.npss.sk.ca/events.php.

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3rd Annual Solar Fair: Seminars, Workshops & Trade Show

June 20th & 21nd, Craik Eco-Centre, Craik, SK

Join engineers, teachers, scientists, home builders, environmentalists and citizens from across the province in a two day Solar Fair. Hosted by the Craik Sustainable Living Project (CSLP) and taking place within the CSLP’S Eco-Centre, renowned for its green design. Early registration is recommended as space is limited. $150 per person (2 days), $75 per person (1 day),or $15 per seminar.

Apply now for a booth at the Trade Show. Email: eade@sasktel.net Registration forms available at: http://www.craikecovillage.ca.

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Discovering the Missouri Coteau

June 23rd - 25th, Moose Jaw, SK

Workshop/tour based out of Moose Jaw in celebration of Native Prairie Appreciation Week. Details at: http://www.pcap-sk.org/pdfs/npawbrochure2009.pdf. For more information, please contact: Daryl Nazar at 306 569-0424 or Trevor Lennox at 306 778-8294.

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2009 Ness Creek Music Festival - Call for Eco-Village Participants

July 16th - 19th, near Big River

The Ness Creek Music Festival is celebrating its 19th year. It has grown into a major Canadian Festival drawing about 3,000 people per day, over four days. The Festival site is nestled in the boreal forest a few miles from Big River, Saskatchewan and adjacent to the Prince Albert National Park. Ecological awareness and promotion of alternative ideas and services has always been an important part of the Ness Creek Festival. The Eco-Village provides opportunities for individuals and groups to display, promote, workshop, discuss and sell their ideas and services with Festival goers. If you're interested in applying to be an Eco-Village participant, please contact Brenda Goldsworthy at 652-2485 bgoldsworthy@sasktel.net or Gary Smith at 664-2330 smithgroenen@sasktel.net.

The Ness Creek Cultural & Recreational Society is a not-for-profit organization that exists primarily to create an annual Festival to celebrate Music, Arts, Community and Ecology in the boreal forest.

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SOEEA’s Boreal Forest Ecotour

July 31st - August 2nd, Ness Creek site

Come along with us as we explore and experience this unique and beautiful ecosystem. We are working with the Boreal Forest Learning Centre to offer an exciting program including local culture, music, storytelling, history, wildlife viewing and ecology.

We will be camping at picturesque Ness Creek - tenting at the Ness Creek site and the use of a communal kitchen is included in your registration. (you may upgrade to cabin accommodations at your own expense). All ages welcome. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience a Northern Saskatchewan adventure! Early Bird Prices until June 1st are $50 members ($75 non-members). Note: the non-member price includes a one year membership; family and student rates are also available. For a registration form, please email: soeea.sk@gmail.com.

For more information, please visit our website at: http://www.soeea.sk.ca.

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Ignite Change Now! Global Youth Assembly 2009

July 30th - August 2nd, 2009, Edmonton, AB

The John Humphrey Centre is excited to let you know that the second Ignite Change Now! Global Youth Assembly is set. Sol Guy along with other partners such as Rights and Democracy will be joining us once again in Edmonton to keep it real and inspiring.

Delegate registration for the Assembly is available on their website at http://www.youthassembly.ca. Space is limited so be sure to register early!

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Opportunities/Calls for Delegates/Proposals

Senior Project Manager (Energy Solutions) and Senior Project Manager Environmental Technology

The Go Green Unit of the Ministry of Environment is evolving to find, evaluate and invest in cost effective solutions to environmental issues. As part of this transition, we are staffing the aforementioned positions (which are currently posted on the public service commission website at http://www.careers.gov.sk.ca/ ) to help us move forward in this regard. Apply by: May 14, 2008.

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Executive Director: Safe Drinking Water Foundation

Location: Saskatoon

The Safe Drinking Water Foundation (SDWF) is seeking a passionate Executive Director to apply their strong communication and organization skills to lead the SDWF. For more information: http://www.safewater.org/about-us/employment-opportunities.html.

The SDWF is a registered non-profit national charity whose mission is: To encourage the universality of safe drinking water by supporting innovative research and development; increasing the awareness of health concerns from consumption of poor water quality; and acting as a policy advocate to ensure appropriate action is taken to provide safe drinking water to all people.

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Science Education Program Assistant: Safe Drinking Water Foundation

Location: Saskatoon

The Safe Drinking Water Foundation (SDWF) is seeking a summer student to fill the science education program assistant position. For more information: http://www.safewater.org/about-us/employment-opportunities.html#student2009.

To apply, e-mail to: sue.peterson1@safewater.org, deadline for applications is May 25th, 2009.

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Trades Instructor - Green Build

Location: Saskatoon

New Community Youth Development Corporation (YDC) is a Saskatoon based non-profit that uses social enterprise, hands on training and mentorship as youth and community development tools.

YDC is looking for a Trades Instructor to work with our Green Build Trades Education Program. YDC strongly encourages applicants of First Nations or Metis ancestry to apply. Duties: Provide 20-40 hours of on the job training and mentorship to at-risk youth; provide trades related services to our community customers; Work as part of a team with other YDC staff members. Wage and Benefits: Based on Experience and Training.

Please apply in person to: Keith Jorgenson, Executive Director, YDC, 322 Ave C South, Saskatoon. Phone 975-3955.

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Female Trades Instructor

Location: Saskatoon

YDC is a Saskatoon based non-profit that uses social enterprise, hands on training and mentorship as youth and community development tools. YDC is about a year and a half old and currently runs a number of social enterprises.

YDC is looking for a Female Trades Instructor to work in our soon to be launched introductory female trades program. The successful applicant will have: experience working with youth at risk; a formal background in the trades; some experience working with tools, renovations, and/or carpentry/construction; an understanding of barriers to employment and success faced by young women at-risk in Saskatoon; a strong work ethic; an ability or experience in project management; capability of learning on the job; capability of working collaboratively with partner agencies, co-workers, and customers.

Duties: Provide 40 hours of on the job training and mentorship to at-risk female youth; provide trades related services to our community customers; work as part of team with other YDC staff members.

Wage and benefits based on experience and training. YDC strongly encourages applicants of First Nations or Metis ancestry to apply. Please apply in person to: Keith Jorgenson, Executive Director, YDC, 322 Ave C South, Saskatoon. Phone 975-3955.

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Youth for International Do-It-Yourself Media Training

July 21 - 25, Calling Lakes Centre, Fort Qu’Appelle

For young people 12 - 18, this Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation program involves 4 days of training for youth on issues and activism. The training builds the skills of participating youth to produce their own creative media on global issues. After the training youth are encouraged to continue their work and will be provided with ongoing opportunities.

Registration forms can be found online at http://www.youthbeat.org. You can also receive registration forms and more information by contacting scicyouth@earthbeat.sk.ca or (306)757-4669.

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Student Researcher/Writer

The Food Miles Campaign Committee of the Saskatchewan Organic Directorate (http://www.saskorganic.com/) is seeking a Student Researcher/Writer, (currently enrolled in post secondary studies), for a 13 week period beginning June 1st, 2009. Completion date of the research project is August 21, 2009.

Please submit your application including references, by email in Word 97 or PDF format to: Doug Bone, SOD Food Miles Committee at faye.doug@sasktel.net. Deadline for applications is May 18th, 2009, and interviews will follow shortly.

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Green Building Job Postings

Integrated Designs is planning to hire a minimum of 3 more people. Integrated Designs exclusively works on green building projects. Our primary services are project management, LEED documentation, energy consulting, and commissioning. Details are on their web site at http://www.i-designs.ca/careers.html.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Tanzanian Katesh Benefit Concert and Used Book Sale

Our goal is to raise several thousand dollars for the girls hostel in Katesh. This building will eventually be home to 48 girls who have won CHES scholarships for secondary school but live in remote rural areas and have no place to live in the town in which their school is located. The hostel is being completed in stages and the first 16 girls are scheduled to move into the first sleeping room in June. The projected cost of the completed complex (which will house 48 girls) is about $54,000. $28,000 has been raised to date! http://www.canadianharambee.ca

If you live in the Saskatoon area and would like to contribute in any of the following ways, please let Elaine Carter (955-1905) or Sara Williams (373-6345) know. We've had a generous initial response of volunteers, but more help is needed with donations of used books, loading of books into vehicles on June 11 and 12. (We need both vehicles and "loaders")(dollies are welcome); set-up for the book sale; provision of baked goods; sale of books or refreshments (two hour shifts); hosts for the reception following the concert.

The dynamic Gala Trio have generously donated their time and talent for the evening concert. Consisting of Audrey Bayduze, piano, Gaye-Lynn Kern, soprano, and Arlene Shiplett, French horn, their repertoire ranges from classical to contemporary. Tickets (including the reception) are only $10.

To volunteer or purchase concert tickets: from May 14th to June 1st, please call Elaine Carter (955-1905); from June 6 to 12, please call Sara Williams (373-6345); from June 1 to 6, please call either Elaine or Sara.

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Conservation Volunteers Needed

The Nature Conservancy of Canada's 2009 Conservation Volunteers events are planned for the upcoming season. Imagine yourself planting trees next to a babbling brook in the beautiful Qu’Appelle Valley, upgrading a bison handling facility amid the vast grasslands of the Old Man on his Back Prairie Heritage and Conservation Area, or pulling weeds in the eastern part of the province where unique assemblages of habitats and species exist and are found nowhere else in the province. The events are designed to engage participants with the natural world and Saskatchewan's native plant and animal species as well as accomplish necessary Stewardship work on NCC's conservation sites across the province. Visit the Conservation Volunteers website (http://www.conservationvolunteers.ca) to see the 2009 Saskatchewan Conservation Volunteer events and where you can register online, or contact Jennipher Karst, directly at (306) 347-0447 ext. 229 or toll free at 1 866-622-7275 ext. 229 to register.

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Plantwatch Volunteers Needed

PlantWatch Saskatchewan, delivered through Nature Saskatchewan, is looking for volunteer plantwatchers to watch selected plants bloom in the spring and report the data. This data is used for climate change research, and to see what is happening to plants in our changing world. The PlantWatch program enables "citizen scientists" of all ages and skill levels to get involved by recording flowering times for selected plant species and reporting these dates to researchers through the Internet or by mail. Individuals, classrooms and groups of all types are encouraged to participate. Even one observation of one plant is a great contribution! Check out http://www.plantwatch.ca for more information on plantwatching, or call Deanna to get involved at no charge at 780-9273 or 1-800-667-4668, or by e-mail at plantwatch@naturesask.ca.

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