News
Torch River Provincial Forest Threatened
Local citizens in the Whitefox-Love-Nipawin area are concerned about the future of the forest in the Torch River Provincial Forest. Plans for clearcutting are rumoured, and concerned citizens as well as mushroom pickers in the area feel that if the forest is cut, the sensitive ecosystem and future wildcrafting will go along with it. The area is one of the best sources in the world for chanterelle mushrooms, according to spokesperson Robert Jardine.
A community meeting held ten days ago brought many people together looking to stop the potential clearcutting. There is a meeting scheduled on the evening December 16th at the Love Community Hall where the government will present its operating plan for the area.
According to the 2007 Report on Saskatchewan’s Provincial Forests: "In Saskatchewan, the commercial value of some food products has become significant. Some years, more than one million dollars is paid out to mushroom pickers for morels, chanterelles and pine mushrooms. Each year, 25,000 pounds of wild blueberries are picked for local markets."
For more information about the issue and upcoming meeting, please contact Robert Jardine at budjardine@hotmail.com.
Do You Know An Environmental Champion?
Nominations are now open for the 8th Annual Saskatchewan Eco Network Environmental Activism Awards.
You can appreciate a beautiful vista, a waterfall, a field of wild crocuses, a moose standing in a break. Often our appreciation for nature is the reason that we do environmental work. We can also appreciate the strength and the courage of volunteers and staff in environmental organizations, in other fields, or from the general public who work to protect the environment. Appreciation is an important ecological tool for sustaining our planet.
The Saskatchewan EcoNetwork would like to recognize people and organizations, including businesses, journalists, writers, filmmakers, teachers and mentors, anyone who is working to protect the environment. We are looking for Environmental Champions.
The process is easy. To nominate a group or an individual for an Environmental Activism Award, SEN asks that you tell us a story - why does this person or group stand out; why do they deserve recognition? Please provide us with the nominee's address and phone number and send it to sen@link.ca. The deadline for nominations is January 15, 2010. The Awards will be given out at Environmental Film Festival in early March. A little appreciation goes a long way, particularly when the work is so hard.
Wetland Conservation Leaders Recognized
Last week, seven deserving nominees were recognized for their contributions to wetland conservation in Saskatchewan at the presentation of the 2009 Lieutenant Governor's Greenwing Conservation Award. This year’s recipient is Mr. Gregg Sheppard, a past NHL player whose efforts off the ice have been benefitting conservation for more than 25 years. The award recognizes Gregg’s significant contributions raising awareness and funds for habitat conservation in Saskatchewan, including introducing his former teammate, Bobby Orr, to Ducks Unlimited Canada’s conservation mission and raising over $2.5 M for wetland conservation in Canada.
Also nominated this year were: Dale & Cindy Garling of Lampman, SK (Project Webfoot); Blain Hjertaas, Redvers, SK (Wetlands and Sustainable Agriculture); The Saskatchewan Forestry Association, Prince Albert, SK (Kristi Lake Nature Trail); John Sawkey, Saltcoats, SK (Sawkey Bird and Nature Trail); Derrik & June Toovey, Saskatoon, SK (Volunteer Service for Wetland Conservation); and Lori Wilson, Morse, SK (Reed Lake and Chaplin Nature Centre).
Government Re-Introduces Climate Legislation
REGINA - The Government of Saskatchewan has re-introduced its climate change legislation that establishes the framework for how the province will meet its target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 per cent from 2006 levels by 2020 and foster innovation in low-carbon technologies.
The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Act contains two key elements:
- The creation of a Saskatchewan Technology Fund that collects carbon compliance payments from large emitters to invest in low-emitting technologies and processes that reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
- and A Climate Change Foundation that promotes research and development of low carbon technologies, promotes adaptation and fosters public education and awareness.
Read the press release: http://www.gov.sk.ca/news?newsId=568344f1-bc8d-49b7-b5c2-db377b0c458b
Coyote Bounty Ineffective Blanket Approach
Nature Saskatchewan, a non-profit conservation organization and advocate for harmony between nature and human culture, believes that the recently-announced bounty on coyotes in Saskatchewan is not the right way to help livestock producers deal with depredation.
Countless studies have proven bounties to be ineffective in stopping problem coyotes from taking livestock. "What our producers need," Lorne Scott, President of Nature Saskatchewan said, "is an adequately-funded, aggressive control program in areas where depredation is a problem. The focus should be on eliminating problem animals-not a province-wide bounty."
Many farmers and ranchers view the coyote as an ally, helping to control rodent populations, including gophers (ground squirrels). The coyote is a native species and a key predator in prairie ecosystems. It makes little sense to promote poison campaigns to reduce ground squirrel numbers and at the same time, launch a province-wide bounty program to eliminate a main predator of ground squirrels.
Research has proven repeatedly that coyote bounties simply weed out the weak and less wary individuals, leaving the survivors to increase the size of their litters and thereby make up for any short-term or local dip in their numbers. As well, if coyotes are hunted out of a local area, their counterparts from adjacent regions rapidly move in to fill the void.
Scott concluded by saying that "tax dollars would be far better spent by providing resources directly to assist producers where coyote depredation on domestic livestock is a problem."
Action Alerts
Public Meetings in Saskatchewan: Nuclear Waste Management Organization
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is looking for a “willing host community” folks who want to live with a high level radioactive waste dump. Saskatchewan is on their list of possible places. What do you think? Find out what they are up to. Share your thoughts on whether the proposed process is appropriate and what changes, if any, need to be made.
You are invited to information sessions (from 2 - 9 pm):
- Regina: Dec 7th: Delta Regina, 1919 Sask. Drive
- Prince Albert: Dec 8th: Art Hauser Centre, 690b 32nd St E.
- Saskatoon: Dec 9th: Delta Bessborough, 601 Spadina Cres.
For maps and additional info see http://www.nwmo.ca/events.
A copy of the document under discussion is here: http://www.nwmo.ca/news . Click on Implementing Adaptive Phased Management 2010 to 2014 – Draft for Review.
Seal the Deal 2009!
The United Nations has launched “Seal the Deal” campaign that encourages users to sign an online, global petition which will be presented by civil society to governments of the world at the Copenhagen Climate Summit.
Petition: Don't Nuke the Climate!
Climate change and its impacts are now undeniable. Leaders from the whole world will have to reach a new climate agreement during the December 2009 Copenhagen Summit. Urgent measures must be taken to achieve a massive reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions: our future depends on it! Will you join in the fight against climate change and for a nuclear-free world by taking part in the campaign?
Sign the petition on this site: http://www.dont-nuke-the-climate.org/spip.php?page=petition&lang=en. Over 43,000 people have signed so far.
Recycling in Saskatchewan: Online Petition
Recycling in Saskatchewan, or RiSK, is a volunteer organization dedicated to the implementation of public recycling services in the province. Take a minute to sign their online petition at http://recyclinginsaskatchewan.yolasite.com/online-petition.php.
Resources
Articles on the Nuclear Industry
Sandra Finley, a Saskatoon-based researcher, writer and community activist has written a series of articles on the nuclear industry and how in her opinion various levels of our government and the University of Saskatchewan are sidestepping democratic debate in order to support and subsidize the building of a nuclear reactor and bring nuclear waste into our province. If you would like to receive the information that she has compiled ( from public record ) please contact Ms Finley directly at sabest1@sasktel.net.
Regina Car Share Co-operative is Now Open for Business!
The Regina Car Share Co-operative provides a convenient and affordable alternative to owning a car. Carsharing gives you access to vehicles when you need them, without the responsibilities that ownership can bring. Regina Car Share Co-operative (RCS) board wants to inform you that RCS now has a vehicle to offer car-share members. Details at http://www.reginacarshare.ca.
Coming Events
Regina
SCIC Seasonal Open House
December 3rd, 4 - 8 pm, 2138 McIntyre St.Come out and meet our new Executive Director and share international snacks, beverages, music and good conversation. Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation. For more information call 757-4669 or email scic@earthbeat.sk.ca.
Green Drinks Regina Networking Party
December 3rd, 5:30pm, Bitten, 1822 Broad St.As the holiday season draws nearer we wanted to do something a little different to kick off the festive season. We hope you can join us for a little holiday cheer! This month’s Green Drinks host is … you! Instead of having an official host, we’re having a networking party. Bring your friends or come by yourself and you’ll get a chance to meet other environmentally-minded individuals. Ever seen how speed dating works? We’re doing something similar, with five-minute rounds for you to chat one-on-one with other Green Drinkers. Come out for great food, sparkling conversation and a chance to get to know each other better. Green Drinks Regina is part of an international network of Green Drinks events. For more information on Green Drinks Regina, to be added to our e-mail list e-mail us at: greendrinksregina@gmail.com or join our Green Drinks Regina group on facebook.
Physics Students Society Holiday Screening of “No Impact Man”
December 7th, 7 - 9 pm, University of Regina, Education Building, ED 193 On December 7, as the holiday season approaches and the UN Climate Change Conference takes place in Copenhagen, students of the University of Regina will be gathering together for a pre-DVD release screening of the No Impact Man documentary and a discussion about not-shopping. The Physics Student Society screening is one of dozens taking place across the nation this week.This event is open to the public. Reserve your free e-ticket at http://bit.ly/3WDmB1. Light refreshments will be served after the film.
Stop Climate Chaos Rally
December 12th, 12:15pm Victoria ParkOn December 12, Rally Around the Earth for Climate Justice and a Safer, Healthier Planet! Join in Global Solidarity to send a message to world leaders gathering at Copenhagen Climate Negotiations to reach a fair and binding decision to reduce Greenhouse gases. By Dec.18, 2009 (12-18)! Music – Speakers - Ideas.
Craven Christmas Bird Count Field Trip
December 19th, 2009Join members of Nature Regina for this Christmas Bird Count which is centered on Craven, and includes Lumsden, Valeport, and part of the Qu’Appelle Valley. Count leader is Trevor Herriot; contact him at 777-2395 (office)/ 585-1674 (home) for details and to be assigned to a count team.
Saskatoon
Memorial Service: Say No to Violence Against Women
December 6th,2 pm, St. Thomas More CafeteriaA memorial will be held for the 14 female victims of the December 6 massacre at Ecole Polytechnique. This date has become the basis for events which both commemorate this tragedy and work towards ending violence against women. The event will be held in the cafeteria of the St. Thomas More College building at 2 pm, ending at 4 pm.
SEIMA’s 2010 Business Expo and Trade Show
January 11th, Saskatoon Radisson HotelThe Saskatchewan Environmental Industry and Managers Association (SEIMA) is "Bringing the World to Saskatchewan" at the 2010 Business Expo and Trade Show. Take the time to get the big-picture view. What macro events are impacting on your business and career plans? Meet Saskatchewan's most prominent environmental practitioners and stakeholders on January 11, 2010, at the Radisson Hotel, Saskatoon. Enjoy an upscale, yet relaxing networking opportunity. It could mean your next big business deal! The Reception following is designed to entice you to stay for Day 2: Linkages 2010. Early Bird deadline: December 18! For more information and to register please visit: http://www.seima.sk.ca.
Greening Your New or Existing Home Seminar
January 19th, 2010 7-10 pm, Frances Morrison Library TheatreFor complete information see the events section of the Green Building Council, Saskatchewan Chapter website at http://www.cagbc.org/chapters/saskatchewan/events/index.php or call: Max Stadnyk 306-260-9191.
Other
Current Research at SPARC
December 15th, 12:10-12:50 pm, SPARC meeting room, Swift Current,Presenters: Dr. Alan Iwaasa & Dr. Mike Schellenberg, Research Scientists, Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre
The Native Prairie Speaker Series is hosted by the Prairie Conservation Action Plan.
Calls for Delegates/Proposals
Join the RCEN Agriculture Caucus Steering Committee
The RCEN is currently conducting a Call for Nominations in search of one or two new members to join the Agriculture Caucus Steering Committee. This is an excellent opportunity for you to be part of Caucus decision-making and the planning of activities! This call is open to all RCEN members who belong to, or are willing to join, the Agriculture Caucus. Steering Committee members will serve a two-year term from May 2009 to April 2011. We are aiming to have the new Steering Committee in place before the next Agriculture Steering Committee meeting, which is scheduled for the end of January 2010. The deadline for nominations is December 7, 2009.
Details at: http://www.cen-rce.org/eng/consultations/comment_calls/09_11_agriSC.html.
SCIC 20th Annual Global Citizen Awards
SCIC is calling for nominations for this year’s 20th Annual Global Citizens Awards. SCIC has recognized over 70 individuals, couples, organizations, publications, youth and teachers worthy of the “Global Citizen” Award for their work towards a better world for all. We have recognized prominent internationalists alongside young people just beginning their work; our only criteria are that the recipients are Saskatchewan residents and have a demonstrated commitment and contribution to global justice and cooperation. We welcome nominations from all parts of Saskatchewan!
Global Citizens Nomination Forms must be received by December 14, 2009, and nominations will be reviewed by the SCIC Global Citizens Selection Committee. For more information contact SCIC at 757-4669 or scic@web.ca.
People's Food Policy Project
Please join us in shaping the future of food in Canada! The People's Food Policy Project is backed by a growing number of concerned citizens and organizations across the country. It is a unique opportunity to develop a concrete food sovereignty policy for Canada – a policy framework that reflects our common values of health, justice and sustainability. Deadline is extended to December 14th, 2009.
Submitting your policy ideas is simple and can be done using the work that you and / or your organization have already completed in the past. We have broadened the submission process to include reports that your organization may have already written for other purposes. You can send the entire report with relevant sections highlighted, or simply send the executive summary and recommendations of the report.Information at: http://peoplesfoodpolicy.ca or contact Amanda Sheedy at peoplesfoodpolicy@gmail.com or (514) 342-5291.
Communities are Encouraged to Apply to New Planting Program
Tree Canada and the Majesta brand of household paper products are proud to announce the online application for Trees By the Shore, a community planting program that begins in the Spring of 2010. In 2009, 25 communities were selected across the country to plant trees by waterways with the help of local community groups, school children, parents and volunteers. An educational component was included to teach school children about the important role trees play in maintaining healthy ecosystem. Interested communities have until December 31, 2009 to apply. Trees and planting expertise are available to qualifying communities at: http://www.majestapromotions.ca/dedicate/Default.aspx.
Shell Environmental Fund
The Shell Environmental Fund provides financial support for grass roots, action-oriented projects that improve and protect the Canadian environment. Funding support can be requested for projects that yield a direct, positive environmental benefit and engage the local community through hands-on involvement. The next deadline is February 15, 2010. More information at http://www.shell.ca/sef
Call for Papers: Journal of Agriculture and Food Systems Development
The Journal welcomes papers related to the development aspects of agriculture and food systems. Faculty and students, Extension and other educators, planners, consultants, staff with farm agencies and farm and community organizations, and farmers are invited to submit material.
There is a specific call on the topic: Growing Farmers. Submissions will be accepted until February 15, 2010.
For more information, see the Journal's website http://www.agdevjournal.com/.
Earth Day Canada Environmental Scholarship Opportunity
Earth Day Canada has launched the 2010 Toyota Earth Day Scholarship Program. Twenty $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to students across Canada who have distinguished themselves through environmental community service, extracurricular and volunteer activities, and academic excellence. One exceptional student will also be presented with the Toyota Earth Day Scholarship National Award and a Panasonic notebook computer.
The deadline to apply is February 28, 2010. Application material and information is available online at http://www.earthday.ca/scholarship. For program information, please contact Jo Anne Tacorda at 416 599-1991 ext. 109.
Employment Opportunities
Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition: Executive Director
The Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition (CCWC), based in southwestern Alberta, is currently seeking an Executive Director with a passion for wild lands and wildlife that wants to make a positive contribution to their protection. Candidates should be well organized, self-starters, quick studies, good communicators, have good computer skills, and be able to deal with the uncertainties that come with working with a non-profit organization. On occasion, a thick skin will come in handy. Knowledge of the Castle and its history, knowledge of conservation biology, an understanding of Alberta and Canadian environmental law and practice, and experience supervising field staff would all be assets. For more information, please visit http://www.ccwc.ab.ca/whatnew.php.
Manitoba Field Coordinator: Heifer International
Location: ManitobaHeifer International, a progressive, sustainable community development organization with more than 60 years of grassroots success, seeks a Field Coordinator to provide both project development and implementation in rural and urban Manitoba. Deadline: Tuesday, December 15th, 2009. Details at http://www.heifercanada.org/heifercanada.php#careers.
Internships on Manitoba Grass Based Farm
Location: Pilot Mound, ManitobaWe have 2 paid, live-in internships available for the 2010 season. Harborside Farms is a small, diversified grass based livestock farm, direct marketing and meat processing business. We raise Red Poll cattle, Berkshire and American Mulefoot pigs, Pastured chicken and turkey, and pastured eggs. We live on a 200 acre farm 2 hours southwest of Winnipeg, in the rolling hills near the Pembina river valley just 10 miles from the US border.
Details at Good Work Canada: http://www.planetfriendly.net/gwd.php?id=9720.