A Great Start: High Expectations for a Promising Future
Dragon Fly Photo by Simon Pollard
Diverse Contributions: A Unique Blend of Science, Community and Artist Impressions
The Western Canada Wilderness Committee is very proud of our Boreal Forest Research Station near Fort Vermillion, Alberta. The Research Station, located on the bank of the Peace River, utilizes the beautiful and spacious Canada Maximas Lodge owned by John and Beverly Leonard.
The research program's long-term goals are to describe, define and classify old growth 'boreal cove' forests as wildlife, insect and plant habitat. Boreal Coves are stands of old growth that have been missed by the frequent fires that pass through the forest and therefore house very large, old trees and an abundance of wildlife. Using both traditional innovative research methods, we focused on the biological diversity and ecological dynamics of old growth forest ecosystems. Internationally renowned ecologist Dr. James Butler of the University of Alberta has spearheaded this research with the assistance of a body of distinguished scientists who have provided guidance for the research program, and access to the resources of their agencies and institutions. Andy Miller, a biologist of old growth ecology, and graduate student concerned with conservation biology and eco-tourism development, has served as Director of Research at the station.
During our first research season, more than 10,000 birds representing 104 species were recorded and studied in nine stands of old growth forest. While a minimal two year data base is required before the studies will be published in scientific journals, a preliminary report of research is available fro our offices. Please feel free to drop by.
As an organization, we are pleased with the progress of our activities at our Boreal Forest Research Station. We are also pleased with other contributions, such as those which arose from our Artist's Retreat during which many Alberta artist used the Research Station to capture on canvas their artistic impressions of our northern forest. Our association is heartily grateful to all those who contributed to these initiatives. We wish to share with you a selection of images from the events of a summer at our Boreal Forest Research Station, and provide the insights of research participants so that they may update you on our activities and foster your continued support and participation.
