CIER’s Project Manager, Kat Hewitt, and Indigenous Knowledge and Engagement Coordinator, Eddie Guo, recently attended the 13th Prairie Conservation and Endangered Species Conference at the Calgary Zoo from February 21 to 23. The conference, held every three years, is a leading forum to discuss and share issues, information, research, and trends in the conservation of biodiverse prairie landscapes. 

CIER proudly sponsored the attendance of six participants who were Indigenous or represent Indigenous organizations in the prairie region, via the Environment and Climate Change Canada – Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) as part of the Species at Risk Act Consultation, Cooperation, and Accommodation Project (SARA-CCA). Several of the sponsored participants presented on the conservation activities their respective communities are undertaking.  

Kat had the opportunity to present with the Canadian Wildlife Federation on a separate project, which was also highlighted at the conference. In addition to attendees, CIER also supported the Central Grasslands Roadmap Committee, an initiative designed to connect interested individuals from Canada, the U.S., and Mexico for landscape-level prairie ecosystem protection.  

The conference presented an excellent opportunity to engage attendees and share CIER’s ongoing projects and efforts. Kat and Eddie set up a booth at the conference to answer questions and share information about the project as attendees viewed the displays. A range of attendees, including scientists, land owners, consultants, educators, nature enthusiasts, students, and land managers, visited the booth.  

We would like to thank Christian Artuso from Environment and Climate Change Canada for his ongoing dedication to the preservation of prairie ecosystems and the individuals who live and rely on those lands.