Funding Opportunities for Volunteer Inspection Core

The Stewards of Alberta's Protected Areas Association (SAPAA) aims to establish a volunteer inspection core dedicated to safeguarding Alberta's protected areas. To support this initiative, SAPAA seeks to identify potential funding sources from Canadian or Alberta-based grants and donations. The project involves researching and compiling a list of funders whose objectives align with SAPAA's mission. Learners will apply their research skills to analyze funding criteria, application processes, and deadlines. This project offers an opportunity to bridge classroom knowledge with real-world applications, enhancing skills in research, analysis, and strategic planning. The ultimate goal is to provide SAPAA with a comprehensive list of viable funding opportunities to support their volunteer program.

Mapping Partnerships for Protected Area Reporting

The Stewards of Alberta's Protected Areas Association (SAPAA) is seeking to enhance the monitoring and reporting of Alberta's protected areas under the WAERNAHR Act. These areas, which are provincial Crown lands with varying levels of legal protection, have been underreported, with nearly 100 out of 262 sites lacking inspection reports over the past 30 years. The goal of this project is to identify and engage potential partner organizations, such as nature clubs, hiking groups, and youth organizations, that are interested in visiting and reporting on these sites. By fostering partnerships, SAPAA aims to ensure that each site receives at least one inspection report, contributing to better conservation efforts and awareness. The project will involve researching potential partners, assessing their interest and capacity, and developing a strategic engagement plan to facilitate collaboration.

Student Volunteers

A multi-discipline team of 2-4 students will create a working proof of concept (PoC) data extract from iNaturalist of Natural Area observations of interest to SAPAA. The PoC will demonstrate the feasibility of both extracting and visualizing data to support volunteer, organizational, and public policy objectives. The team must have strong computer science and data management skills and ideally has biological and public policy capabilities. The students will be mentored by a multi-disciplined advisors and must present to a “Dragon’s Den” style panel the results of their efforts. For more information, visit: https://sapaastewards.com/2025/04/27/using-inaturalist-data-for-good/.

Optimizing Resource Management for Remote Volunteer Support

The project aims to enhance the management of materials and equipment used by volunteers visiting remote protected areas in the province. Volunteers play a crucial role in conservation efforts, but logistical challenges often arise due to the remoteness of these locations. The goal is to develop a comprehensive strategy that ensures efficient allocation, transportation, and maintenance of resources. This project will allow learners to apply their knowledge of supply chain management, logistics, and environmental sustainability. Key tasks include analyzing current resource management practices, identifying inefficiencies, and proposing innovative solutions. The project will also involve researching best practices from similar organizations and adapting them to the unique needs of the province's protected areas.