Red Deer River Naturalists

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-10-12 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Edmonton) | Maskepetoon Park, Maskepetoon Park, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Location: Maskepetoon Park – located in the subdivision of Oriole Park West.
Meet: In the fitness park parking lot of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive. Parking lot is on the west side of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive.
When: October 12, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-10-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail
Meet: Before you visit you can get a detailed map showing how to get there, and learn more about the area and visitor guidelines: https://www.novachem.com/wp-content/uploads/Legacy-fact-sheet-1.pdf
The Community Nature Trail is located within easy driving distance of many Central Alberta communities: just southwest of the Hamlet of Joffre on Township Rd 390. Directions from Red Deer, travel east on Highway 11 and turn left onto highway 815. Proceed to Range Road 390 and turn left. It’s a short distance and you will see a sign.
When: October 5, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-28 10:00 - 13:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Springbrook Natural Area, take the main road into Springbrook (Red Deer Airport). Just before the bend to the right there is a small gravel parking lot where you can park at the entrance to Tamarack Blvd. We cross over the road into the park.
When: September 28, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Springbrook Natural Area

Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
2024-09-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
Wildlife, Landscape and Geology – Exploring Connections with Dr. Dale Leckie
Held on September 26, 2024 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 – 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 3M4, in the Theatre room.
Join us for an informative and engaging event to investigate the close relationship between wildlife, landscape and geology.
Did you ever consider that to find and observe wildlife in Alberta and Saskatchewan it’s best to first check out the local Geology? From the Rocky Mountains to the rain shadow of the prairies, from deeply entrenched rivers having prairie oases, and glaciated terrain, geology has a strong impact on wildlife distribution. The relationship between wildlife and landscape is explored and exemplified in the lives of Golden Eagles over the Rockies, the American Pika and eroding mountains, of burrowing owls on glaciated plains, and Greater short-horned Lizards surviving in badlands and a vast rain shadow. Dale interweaves science with spectacular photos and beautiful art to take you to the most interesting places in the prairie provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Dr. Dale Leckie is a Geologist, Speaker and best-selling Author who worked at the Geological Survey of Canada and as Chief Geologist at Nexen, a large Canadian energy company. He has edited numerous books and published widely on the geology of western Canada. He is an adjunct Professor in the Earth, Environment and Energy Department at the University of Calgary. Dale has been recognized for his long-term contributions to geology and is an honorary member of the Society for Sedimentary Geology and the Canadian Energy Geoscience Association. Dale is the 2024 recipient of the Geosciences in the Media Award by the America Association of Petroleum Geologists for his first two books.
Wildlife, Landscapes and Geology: An Alberta and Saskatchewan Touring Guide is the third of his best-selling trilogy of books encouraging people to get out and explore. Dale’s previous books The Scenic Geology of Alberta and Rocks, Ridges and Rivers were both best sellers.

Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5, Room 2601, Refreshments, Parking is free after 4:00 PM in designated public parking areas.
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Symposium Summary /Open Forum

Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5, Room 2601, Refreshments, Parking is free after 4:00 PM in designated public parking areas. See Presenters below:
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
Dates:
September 24, 2024 /Tuesday
6:00 PM – Francine Forrest, Watershed reporting and planning in a changing environment – WPAC roles, state of the Red Deer rivershed report
7:00 PM – Jon Fennell, Alberta’s Groundwater: Inventory, Risks and Management Solutions
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Symposium Summary /Open Forum

Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5, Room 2601, Refreshments, Parking is free after 4:00 PM in designated public parking areas. See Presenters below:
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
Dates:
September 23, 2024 /Monday
6:00 PM – Leslie Peterson, Trout Unlimited Canada – Better Ways to store Water on the Landscape
7:00 PM – Donald Selby, Wetland/Wasteland, A Conversation of Change Documentary, emerging conflicts in the Canadian prairies over the apparently-conflicting needs of wetlands and agriculture.
September 24, 2024 /Tuesday
6:00 PM – Francine Forrest, Watershed reporting and planning in a changing environment – WPAC roles, state of the Red Deer rivershed report
7:00 PM – Jon Fennell, Alberta’s Groundwater: Inventory, Risks and Management Solutions
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Symposium Summary /Open Forum

Water for 2050 Symposium - World Rivers Day Celebration
2024-09-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Alberta
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5, Room 2601, Refreshments, Parking is free after 4:00 PM in designated public parking areas. See Presenters below:
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
In addition, a World Rivers Day celebration is planned at Fort Normandeau @ 10:00 AM beside the Red Deer River on Sunday, Sept 22, 2024.
Dates:
September 22, 2024 /Sunday
10:00 AM – Fort Normandeau, Urban Aboriginal Voices Society, World Rivers Day celebration – smudge, water ceremony, songs and more. Bring chair, blanket, rattle, drum

September 23, 2024 /Monday
6:00 PM – Lesley Peterson, Trout Unlimited Canada – better ways to store water on the landscape
7:00 PM – Donald Selby, Wetland/Wasteland, A Conversation of Change Documentary, emerging conflicts in the Canadian prairies over the apparently-conflicting needs of wetlands and agriculture.
September 24, 2024 /Tuesday
6:00 PM – Francine Forrest, Watershed reporting and planning in a changing environment – WPAC roles, state of the Red Deer rivershed report
7:00 PM – Jon Fennell, Alberta’s Groundwater: Inventory, Risks and Management Solutions
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Symposium Summary/Open Forum

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-09-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Heritage Ranch, 6300 Cronquist Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Heritage Ranch, meet in the first parking lot past the entrance.
When: September 21, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: No Host today, but you are welcome to come and go as a group un-escorted.

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain.

Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-20 18:00 - 19:00 | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5, Room 2601, Refreshments, Parking is free after 4:00 PM in designated public parking areas. See Presenters below:
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
In addition, a World Rivers Day celebration is planned at Fort Normandeau @ 10:00 AM beside the Red Deer River on Sunday, Sept 22, 2024.
Dates:
September 20, 2024 /Friday
6:00 PM – Bob Sandford, United Nations University – Redeeming Tomorrow: Canada in a Warmer World
7:00 PM – TBA
September 21, 2024 /Saturday
6:00 PM – TBA
7:00 PM – TBA
September 22, 2024 /Sunday
10:00 AM – Ft. Normandeau, Urban Aboriginal Voices Society, World Rivers Day celebration – smudge, water ceremony, songs and more. Bring chair, blanket, rattle, drum
September 23, 2024 /Monday
6:00 PM – Lesley Peterson, Trout Unlimited Canada – better ways to store water on the landscape
7:00 PM – Donald Selby, Wetland/Wasteland, A Conversation of Change Documentary, emerging conflicts in the Canadian prairies over the apparently-conflicting needs of wetlands and agriculture.
September 24, 2024 /Tuesday
6:00 PM – Francine Forrest, Watershed reporting and planning in a changing environment – WPAC roles, state of the Red Deer rivershed report
7:00 PM – Jon Fennell, Alberta’s Groundwater: Inventory, Risks and Management Solutions
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Summary comments/open forum

Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
The Red Deer River Naturalists invite you to attend the Water for 2050 Symposium Sept 18th to the 25th, 2024.
Held at Red Deer Polytechnic100 College Blvd, Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5 on the dates below:
Those who cannot attend in person can register here to receive a ZOOM link to the individual presentations: https://forms.gle/sHxqDi1VjDb8hext6
The latest updates on speakers and events will be available on the Water for 2050 Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1954352408321165/?active_tab=about
The latest updates are also on the Water for 2050 LinkedIn page.
https://www.linkedin.com/…/water-2050-symposium…/…
In addition, a World Rivers Day celebration is planned at Fort Normandeau @ 10:00 AM beside the Red Deer River on Sunday, Sept 22, 2024.
Dates:
September 18, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Kevin VanTighem – Forest Management and River Flows
7:00 PM – Dr. Richard Schneider, Nature Alberta, The Big Picture – How Prairie Ecosystems Will Change Under a warmer Climate
September 19, 2024 /Thursday
6:00 PM – Dr. John Pomeroy, Global Water Futures – Predicting river flows, adapting to Alberta’s uncertain future
7:00 PM – Dr. Bill Mackay – Water in Alberta 2050: An Historical Perspective
September 20, 2024 /Friday
6:00 PM – Bob Sandford, United Nations University – Redeeming Tomorrow: Canada in a Warmer World
7:00 PM – TBA
September 21, 2024 /Saturday
6:00 PM – TBA
7:00 PM – TBA
September 22, 2024 /Sunday
10:00 AM – Ft. Normandeau, Urban Aboriginal Voices Society, World Rivers Day celebration – smudge, water ceremony, songs and more. Bring chair, blanket, rattle, drum
September 23, 2024 /Monday
6:00 PM – Trout Unlimited Canada – better ways to store water on the landscape
7:00 PM – TBA
September 24, 2024 /Tuesday
6:00 PM – Francine Forrest, Red Deer River Watershed Alliance
7:00 PM – TBA
September 25, 2024 /Wednesday
6:00 PM – Cheryl Bradley, Friends of the Oldman, SAGE – Consider the River in Water and Watershed Management
7:00 PM – Summary comments/open forum

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-14 10:00 - 16:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park – The Dry Island Buffalo Jump outing is a full day outing. We meet at the overlook at 10:00 a.m., and we will set our route from there depending on moisture conditions. Note, that the full walk leads around and back over the ‘Island’. It as an ‘intermediate’ hike, and there will certainly be rough and steep portions. Wear good hikers and bring poles if you use them. The hike will take about 5 hours from the day use area, so allow 6 hours overall (lunch and water along). If some people are hesitant about the steeper portions, they can join us for the early stages along the river and then circle back to return by those same trails (the first 2-3 km).
When: September 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Alix Lake Campground, Alix Lake, Alix, Alberta, T0C 0B0, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Alix Lake Nature Trail
Meet: Alix Lake Campground
When: September 7, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Nature Central Paddling Event
2024-08-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Alberta
RDRN is pleased to host a Nature Central Outing on Thursday August 8th, 2024 when Myrna Pearman and Claudia Lipski will lead an evening paddle on a small lake near Eckville.
The trip will be limited to ten participants and will proceed if weather conditions are favourable.
To register, please email Myrna at myrnapearman.nature@gmail.com

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2024-06-29 10:00 - 18:00 | Alberta
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Medicine Lake Provincial Recreation Area (north of Rocky Mountain House on Hwy 22) see map, best to use a mapping app on your phone as a guide if you have one. Cell phone service is poor at the campground, but probably text msgs. will get through.
Host: Chris Olsen
When: June 29, 2024 bird walk from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and paddling from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 or 6:00 p.m. Bring a bag lunch.

Meet: Day use area/boat launch for both the birding walk and paddling. We may shuttle from there for the walk, or simply hike back to the trail head. We’ll paddle the lake counter-clockwise, and so people that want a short outing can see ‘water lily bay’ and do a short loop (about 2 kms) back to the launch. Those that are up for a longer paddle can continue along the far shore for as long as they like, and eventually we’ll explore the mouth of the Medicine River and loop back to the boat launch (about 4 hrs).
Chris will be camping in Loop A, site A-8 from Thursday night on and so people can find him there ahead if they are camping too. Will and Cathy Steele (RDRN Director) will also be camping Saturday in site A-4.
While Medicine Lake Rec. Area camping appears ‘fully booked’ on line, there are two non-reservable sites in each loop, and those are usually available to access on-site if you are interested in camping, first come first served.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, insect repellent, bear spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Ferry Point Community Camp-out/Birding Field Trip
2024-06-22 10:00 - 2024-06-23 13:30 | Ferry Point Campground, Range Rd 184, Rosalind, Alberta, T0B 3Y0, Canada
Ferry Point Community Camp-out/Birding Field Trip
Explore the beautiful Battle River Valley June 22 and 23, 2024.
Location: Meet at the Ferry Point Campground near Meeting Creek @ 10:00 a.m. Range Rd 184 north of Twp Rd 434, Rosalind, AB T0B 3Y0
During the weekend, we will visit several sites, within the Battle River valley and surrounding uplands and wetlands to observe birds as well as flowers and other plants. Some years we observe more than 70 bird species; many are located close to the campground and Battle River. Some of the highlights of the trip might be Brown Thrasher, Great Horned Owl, Mountain Bluebird, Cliff Swallow, White-faced Ibis. In addition to birding expertise, we anticipate plant and landscape/geological expertise as well.
Come out for a day or the weekend. You have two ways to participate in this trip:

Go out on Saturday and meet at 10:00 a.m. and spend the day, bring your own lunch and drinks. Judy Boyd will be on hand to help identify species. Following an afternoon of birding, burgers will be provided by the Red Deer River Naturalists and salads and deserts will be pot luck. Please bring an item to share.
Go out on Sunday and meet at the campground at 10:00 a.m. bring your own lunch and drinks. We will travel to 1 or 2 sites to observe birds, flowers and other wild plants. We will be wrapped up by about 1:30 or so.
You can camp (tents or trailers) overnight at the Ferry Point Campground, south of the Battle River bridge on Range Road 184. There is a minimal charge for the campsite. No formal activities are planned for Friday evening, but for those who wish to camp on Friday night, it is a good time to enjoy the ambience of the Battle River valley and visit with others.

Host: Judy Boyd 403-358-1098, please call to confirm attendance.
Bring your binoculars, hat, sunscreen, camera/phone, insect repellent, water and energy snack and dress for the weather.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-06-15 10:00 - 13:30 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Radar Hill – see Alberta Discover Guide – https://www.albertadiscoverguide.com/site.cfm?grid=E3&number=12
Meet: End of RR 260 – This 480-acre site is approximately 14 km SE of Red Deer. To access the site, travel 16 km E of Red Deer on Highway 595, then S 4.8 km on RR 260.
When: June 15, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May be longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars*, camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first serve) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-06-08 10:00 - 13:30 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Kuhnen Park https://www.lacombecounty.com/index.php/parks-and-trails or https://birdingtrailsalberta.com/central-alberta-east/kuhnen-park-2/
When: June 8, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars*, camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first serve) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-06-01 10:00 - 13:30 | River Bend Golf & Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Upper Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: June 1, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Guest Host: Ron Bjorge
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars, camera/phone, bug spray, sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Group Leader know if you have any potential medical issues.

Central Alberta May Species Count 2024
2024-05-26 09:00 - 17:00, 2024-05-25 09:00 - 17:00 | Alberta
We invite you to help us document animals and flowering plants in Central Alberta!
You can count in your own backyard, in a nearby park or natural area or even by driving the back-roads. We are interested in everything, from insects and spiders to amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Head on over to the drop-down menu Programs, Species Count, May Species Count to print off your tally sheets. Also a map shows the different zones you can count in. You can view the individual zone maps as well. Let John or Shelley-anne Goulet know exactly where you are counting with an address or name of area to avoid duplication.
All living things are counted: flowers in bloom, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, spiders, insects.
Count between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. either Saturday, Sunday or both. If counting both days, please count in different locations using separate tally sheets.
Contact John or Shelly-anne Goulet 403-392-1894 if participating and to indicate where you are counting so there are no duplication of counts.
Completed tally sheets can be scanned and emailed to shelleyannegoulet@gmail.com or mail your tally sheet to Red Deer River Naturalists Box 785 Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5H2 Attn: John & Shelley-anne Goulet. You can also drop your tally sheet at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre Attn: RDRN. Or call John or Shelley-anne and give your tally to them over the phone. Deadline to submit your tally sheet is June 15th.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-05-18 10:00 - 13:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Alix Lake Nature Trail
Meet: Alix Lake Campground
When: May 18, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-05-11 10:00 - 13:30 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Raven Brood Trout Station
Directions: 54034 Twp Rd 36-0. From Hwy 54, go south on Hwy 22 approximately 5 km, turn west onto Twp Rd 36-0. Turn right at the first fork.
Meet: Park by the picnic shelter.
When: May 11, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Maybe longer.

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-05-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Heritage Ranch, 6300 Cronquist Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Heritage Ranch, meet in the first parking lot past the entrance.
When: May 4, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-04-27 04:00 - 08:00 | Alberta
Registration is full but you can be put on a waiting list.
Our Host Chris Olsen has booked the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk to join the Wainwright Wildlife Society (WWS) in their annual Sharp-tailed Grouse Tour on April 27, 2024. WWS set comfortable blinds on a lek site. The birds come in the pre-dawn to display to potential mates, and it is truly amazing to witness the strutting, posturing, rattling and even aggression in the dawn light. Dancing at this very site was recently filmed and shown on the Nature of Things. Go to CBC GEM and search the Nature of Things; look for a 3-part documentary titled the ‘Secret World of Sound’. The segment that includes Sharp-tailed Grouse on this lek is in part 2, ‘Love and Rivals’.
Pre-registration is required contact olsencdel@gmail.com to participate. Deadline for registering is April 6, 2024. Chris has reserved 14 seats for $35 adults, $15 students (cash) to support the WWS – bring exact change. We have 6 people already committed, so there are only 8 spots left. This outing will meet at a parking lot (tba) in Wainwright and depart for the lek at 4:00 a.m. sharp. Plan to be in the blinds until about 8:00 a.m., dress in warm layers, and bring a hot thermos and a snack. If you are unfamiliar with this spectacle, you will be amazed! If you wish to attend on your own on a different date the WWS runs this Sharp-tailed Grouse Watch from mid April to mid May. See their Facebook page for details and more information about the Tour.
The Tofield Snow Goose Festival also runs the weekend of April 27-28, 2024, based on offerings of years’ past, there is a ‘bird festival’ site in the Town and guided bus excursions with a biologist or interpreter to area wetlands. You can expect to see very large aggregations of Snow Geese and other migrating waterfowl and shore birds. Two or three hour bus tour options, tickets go on sale in March 2024. You can pre-register to reserve your seat! Tour cost: Adults: $25, Youth (12 & under): $10, Family (2a/2c): $60. Google Tofield Snow Goose Festival for more information. It may be something you may want to do after the Sharp-tailed Grouse watch, or the next day, depending on travel logistics.
Photo by ALAN SCHMIERER, Set 72157633375095620, ID 26700452955, Original title 086 – SHARP-TAILED GROUSE (4-19-2016)

Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
2024-04-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the RDRN April Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
Speakers: Justine Doll and Tory Blanchard
Topic: Bee a Community Scientist: Understanding Plant-Pollinator Interactions in Alberta
When: April 25, 2024 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Held at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Ave, Red Deer, AB T4N 3M4, in the Theatre room.
Both Speakers are pursuing their Masters’ degrees at the University of Calgary.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Justine Doll (left), Tory Blanchard (right)

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-04-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Maskepetoon Park, Maskepetoon Park, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Maskepetoon Park – located in the subdivision of Oriole Park West.
Meet: In the fitness park parking lot of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive. Parking lot is on the west side of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive.
When: April 20, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars,* and camera/cellphone. Wear layers and sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant with ice cleats as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Flower Focus Group Meeting
2024-04-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Flower Focus Group Meeting
When: April 17, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Host: Don Wales
Guest Speaker: Jim Robertson
Topic: Wildflowers of the Belly River area of Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta
Location: Kerry Wood Nature Centre in the Marjorie Wood Gallery, 6300 45 Ave. Red Deer, AB
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Sticky Purple Geranium

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-04-13 10:00 - 13:00 | Gaetz Lakes Migratory Bird Sanctuary, gaetz lake mirgratory bird sanctuary, red deer, alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Gaetz Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Meet: Inside the Kerry Wood Nature Centre
When: April 13, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Wear layers and sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant with ice cleats as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
