In 2014, the Miistakis Institute hosted a Citizen Science Conference, exploring this diverse field with sessions on program design, evaluation, policy implications, technology and applications in parks and protected areas. This links to the website that chronicled that event.
John Paczkowski
Volunteers Conducting Ecological Research in Alberta Parks – The Kananaskis Region Example
Speaker Bio: John is a biologist who has concentrated his career on wildlife research and conservation, mainly with large carnivores. John uses wildlife research as a lens to focus decisions on the protection and management of Alberta Parks and adjacent lands. John is fortunate to work with a dedicated team of ecology volunteers in the Kananaskis Region. He welcomes collaboration with other scientists, students and the public. John lives and works in Canmore.
Presentation: Volunteers Conducting Ecological Research in Alberta Parks—the Kananaskis Region Example
In this presentation we will explore how a well-organized group of volunteers are integral to ecological research in Kananaskis Country. Volunteers contribute to various projects including the collection and analysis of wildlife and human use monitoring using remote cameras and trail counters. We will discuss volunteer organizational structure, safety, motivation, logistics and management. This inspirational volunteer group, not only contributes to provincially and regionally important data sets, but also have evolved into a highly empowered stewardship group for Alberta Parks.