SPFGA Naturalist Series: When ignorance does not lead to bliss!

Developed to further our mission by teaching people about nature and how to advocate for its conservation, the Sherwood Park Fish and Game Association (SPFGA) is launching a new series of Naturalist sessions throughout 2024.

Each month we will bring various naturalists from differing backgrounds to share their knowledge in native wildlife and ecosystems to connect participants with nature and increase our appreciation of Alberta's natural heritage.

A naturalist is an expert in, or a student of natural history, so we can all become naturalists!

Our July session is entitled "When ignorance does not lead to bliss!"

Invasive species are non-native organisms introduced, either intentionally or unintentionally, from other countries or ecosystems. These species threaten ecosystems, biodiversity, human health, and economies. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), invasive species are the second leading cause of species extinctions, surpassed only by habitat destruction.

Invasive species out-compete native species for food and space, alter or destroy ecosystems, disrupt food sources, and pose significant risks to both human and wildlife health. They also damage local economies by reducing crop yields and livestock production, decrease property values, interfere with irrigation and water control structures, and discourage outdoor recreation. Invasive species cost Alberta and Canada billions of dollars annually.

We all have a role in stopping or slowing the spread of invasive species. For example, did you know that the so called 'wild flower' or 'pollinator garden' seed mixes you can buy in local big box stores are not wild or native to Canada, and often even contain several invasive plant species? Delinda will describe numerous aquatic and terrestrial invasive species to equip you with the knowledge and information needed to help combat invasive species in Alberta.

After the session, we will play an interactive trivia game based on Delinda's presentation using participant's smartphones, with prizes for the best listeners!

If a youth is attending without adult accompaniment, they must be 15 years of age or older. If the youth is accompanied by an adult however, there really isn’t a minimum age. As long as they are old enough to make it through this evening of activities and do so safely, they are absolutely welcome to attend.

Delinda Ryerson has more than twenty-five years of experience in fisheries and wildlife-related research and management in Alberta. Motivated by her love of wild places and critters, as well as her commitment to their conservation, Delinda is a passionate advocate for scientifically informed land and wildlife management.

For the past two years, she has served as the Executive Director of the Sherwood Park Fish and Game Association (SPFGA). In this role, she has been instrumental in launching the SPFGA Naturalist Series, the SPFGA Outdoor Woman’s Program, and the SPFGA Outdoor Youth Program, all aimed at reconnecting people with nature and the outdoors. She has previously been the Executive Director of the Alberta Invasive Species Council.

Will there be refreshments?

Yes, coffee, water and light refreshments will be provided.

We will refund registration fees if an event is cancelled. Outside of that, individual refunds will not be provided. Please ensure your availability prior to booking. Individuals who cannot make the event may transfer their registration to another individual.

This session has been generously funded through a grant from Beaver County.

Host or Publisher Sherwood Park Fish & Game Association Board