“alberta wilderness association
Mission and Vision
AWA’s mission is to inspire and lead Albertans in conserving wilderness and wildlife for future generations. The organization’s vision is to ensure that Alberta’s wilderness and wildlife are protected and cared for in a way that reflects their value to all Albertans. AWA believes that wilderness and wildlife are essential for human health, well-being, and the economy, and it works to promote responsible stewardship and conservation of these natural resources.
History and Accomplishments
AWA was founded in 1965 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized the need to protect Alberta’s wilderness areas. The organization played a significant role in the creation of Kananaskis Country, a protected area of over 4,000 square kilometers located west of Calgary. AWA also helped establish the Castle Wilderness, a 100,000-hectare area located in the southwestern corner of Alberta. The Castle Wilderness is now part of the Castle Provincial Park and Wildland Provincial Park, which were created in 2017.
AWA has been involved in numerous other conservation efforts in Alberta. The organization helped establish the Bighorn Backcountry, a 5,300-square-kilometer area located in the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. AWA has also been instrumental in the creation of the Bow Corridor Wildland Provincial Park, which protects a critical wildlife corridor between Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country.
Current Initiatives
AWA’s current initiatives focus on protecting and conserving wilderness areas, preserving wildlife habitats, and promoting responsible resource development. The organization’s key campaigns include:
- Keeping the Castle Wild: AWA is working to protect the Castle Provincial Park and Wildland Provincial Park from industrial development. The organization is advocating for increased funding for park management, the creation of a wildlife management plan, and the establishment of a coal mining moratorium in the area.
- Protecting the Rockies: AWA is working to protect the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains from industrial development, including coal mining and oil and gas drilling. The organization is advocating for the creation of new protected areas, an end to coal leasing in the area, and the implementation of a cumulative effects management plan.
- Conserving the Bighorn Backcountry: AWA is working to protect the Bighorn Backcountry from industrial development and motorized recreation. The organization is advocating for the creation of new wilderness areas, the implementation of a wildlife management plan, and the establishment of motorized access restrictions.
- Promoting Responsible Resource Development: AWA is working to ensure that resource development in Alberta is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner. The organization is advocating for increased transparency and public engagement in decision-making processes, the implementation of cumulative effects management plans, and the protection of critical wildlife habitats.
Challenges and Opportunities
AWA faces numerous challenges in its efforts to protect and conserve wilderness areas and wildlife in Alberta. The organization must contend with the powerful interests of the oil and gas, coal, and logging industries, which often prioritize profit over conservation. Additionally, AWA must navigate the complex and sometimes conflicting priorities of government agencies and decision-makers.
Despite these challenges, AWA sees numerous opportunities for conservation and restoration in Alberta. The organization recognizes the potential of collaborative approaches, such as working with Indigenous communities, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to find solutions that balance conservation and economic development. AWA also sees the importance of public education and engagement, and it is committed to raising awareness about the value of wilderness and wildlife in Alberta.
Conclusion
Alberta Wilderness Association is a vital force in the conservation of wilderness areas, wildlife, and wild places in Alberta. The organization’s tireless efforts and commitment to protecting and preserving nature for future generations are inspiring and essential. AWA’s successes demonstrate the power of grassroots activism and the importance of public engagement in conservation efforts. By working together, Albertans can ensure that the province’s natural heritage is preserved and protected for generations to come.
