Summer 2021

Newsletter Archive

Executive Director's Message

Oki.

This week we celebrated National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Indigenous Peoples were the original stewards of the land and we honour and respect the contributions Indigenous Peoples have made in protecting our waters, land, air and wildlife.

As a conservation organization we recognize we play a role in advancing reconciliation, by seeking to understand the truths of our past and exploring new opportunities to sustainable conservation. Reconciliation requires a consideration and integration of Indigenous ways of knowing, that includes and respects Indigenous communities, rights, and knowledge leading to better scientific and community outcomes.

To help us advance our work with Indigenous communities we are very happy to announce our new collaboration with Elliot Fox. Elliot has worked in the field of environment and natural resource conservation for over 27 years and has a wealth of experience working with federal, provincial and First Nations government and non-government agencies addressing sustainable land use, conservation and management. As our Indigenous Conservation Consultant Elliot will guide us as we explore how Miistakis can better serve and support Indigenous led conservation. We look forward to learning from and sharing with Elliot.

Usually at this time of year we have a full office with the addition of summer students. While we aren't working in the office together this year, we are thrilled to have Kaitlyn Squires and Sophia Sulimov working with us. Kaitlyn is a 4th year Bachelor of Science, General Science MRU student and is focusing her time at Miistakis researching issues related to dogs off leash and wildlife. Sophia is a 2nd year Bachelor of Science, Environmental Science MRU student and has been digging in to all kinds of research including survey design, pronghorn connectivity, and coexistence with beavers. Welcome Kaitlyn and Sophia!

My fingers are crossed that this is the last newsletter we circulate that we have drafted from our home offices. It has been a long 16 months and we very much look forward to being back in our offices at Mount Royal University and reconnecting face to face with all of you.

Here's to a safe and fun summer.

Danah Duke, Executive Director