Water for 2050 Symposium
2024-09-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Edmonton) | 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

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

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 - 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

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
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
2024-09-25 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

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.

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

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
2024-10-12 10:00 - 13:00 | 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
2024-10-19 10:00 - 14:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Crimson Lake Provincial Park – Amerada trail follows the lake perimeter for about 10 km. Bring your own lunch for a break at about the mid-point, and plan for about 4 hours of walking.
Meet: At the main parking lot
When: October 19, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 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.
Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Crimson Lake Provincial Park

Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
2024-10-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the RDRN October Monthly Meeting Speaker Series

Speaker: Wyatt Villetard

Topic: Habitat Selection by Sandhill Cranes in Alberta

When: October 24, 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.

Wyatt Villetard is a Master’s student in Dr. Mark Boyce’s Lab at the University of Alberta. His thesis focuses on habitat selection of migratory and nesting Sandhill Cranes in northern Alberta. He is endeavouring to determine—with the use of passive acoustic devices—high quality crane nesting habitat as well as the effects of weather on crane migration.

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-10-26 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf and Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deeer, 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: October 26, 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.

River Bend Golf & Recreation Area
River Bend Golf & Recreation Area

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-11-02 10:00 - 13:00 | Alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Dickson Point Trout Pond
Meet: South of Dickson for 4.1 kilometres on Range Road 31. Located on Gleniffer Lake Reservoir.
When: November 2, 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 and bear spray. 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.
Dickson Point Trout Pond

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-09 10:00 - 13:00 | Burman University Admin. Building Auditorium, 6730 University Drive, Lacombe, AB, T4L 2E5, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Barnett, Elizabeth and Cranna lakes – Lacombe
Meet: Burman University Physical Education Centre parking lot
When: November 9, 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 and an energy snack. 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
2024-11-16 10:00 - 13:00 | Rotary Park, 4837 43 Street, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Barrett, Coronation and Gaetz Park Trails
Meet: Rotary Park parking lot, and we’ll walk East and North from there. For those that want to walk the full distance 3.5 kms, we’ll finish at the stairs/landing at 45 Avenue and 59 Street. People can arrange for a shuttle or pick-up there, or simply return along the reverse route.
When: November 16, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. May be 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 and an energy snack. 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.
Rotary Park

Flower Focus Group Meeting
2024-11-20 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: November 20, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Host: Don Wales
Topic: Flowers of Scotland and Switzerland
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.

Photos – Don Wales

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Bower Woods, Selkirk Boulevard, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Bower Woods
Meet: In the green space across from 37 Selkirk Boulevard
When: November 23, 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 and an energy snack. 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.
Bower Woods

Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
2024-11-28 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the RDRN November Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
Speaker: Sandra MacDougall
Topic: Recolonizing Black Bears in the Beaver Hills Biosphere
When: November 28, 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.
Over the past several years, the black bear population has been steadily increasing in Elk Island National Park and the surrounding Beaver Hills Biosphere. Bears were once a common resident of the area and are now returning to their previously occupied landscapes which are now highly modified. Sandra will summarize her study about the feeding ecology of this bear population and will offer considerations for human-wildlife coexistence.
Sandra MacDougall has been a biology instructor at Red Deer Polytechnic since 1995. She worked on grizzly and black bear populations in Canada’s north for over two decades, conducted a three-year grizzly bear food habit, habitat use and human-bear interactions research study in Nahanni National Park Reserve, and has collaborated with Parks Canada and the US National Parks Service to conduct field hazard assessments and analyze human-bear conflicts in other northern parks.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-30 10:00 - 13:00 | McKenzie Trails, McKenzie Trails Red Deer, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: McKenzie Trails Recreation Area
Meet: In the main parking lot near the shelter
When: November 30, 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 and an energy snack. 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
2024-12-07 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf and Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deeer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Perimeter Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: December 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. 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 and an energy snack. 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
2024-12-14 10:00 - 14:00 | 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: December 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
This will be our last scheduled walk for the season. Coffee and treats to follow (about 1:00 p.m.) at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre. We’ll use this opportunity to debrief our season, so even if you can’t make the walk, try and come out to enjoy the group and to share your feedback and ideas/suggestions for next year.
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 and an energy snack. 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.

Central Alberta Christmas Bird Count
2024-12-22 09:00 - 17:00 | Alberta
Join other Central Alberta Birdwatchers by participating in the longest running and most important bird census in the world.
Central Alberta 2024 Christmas Bird Count
Sunday December 22, 2024
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Print a copy of the Christmas Bird Count Tally Sheet, click here, choose a place to count the birds (map and instructions under Programs).
Please register where you will be counting with Shelley-anne or John Goulet (403-392-1894) so there will be no duplication of counts.
Tally sheets must be received by December 29th. You may drop sheets off (Attn: RDRN) at Kerry Wood Nature Centre 6300 – 45 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 3M4 or mail to RDRN Attn: John & Shelley-anne Goulet Box 785 Red Deer, AB T4N 5H2, or email to shelleyannegoulet@gmail.com, put “CBC” in the subject line.

Family Friendly Winter Walk
2024-12-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Alberta
Nature Central/RDRN will be hosting a family-friendly winter walk at Burns Nature Park on Saturday, December 28, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dress warmly for the winter weather, as the event will take place regardless of snow. Note: The walk may be canceled if temperatures drop below -15°C. While registration is encouraged, you do not need to be a member of RDRN to participate.
Please email nir.rdrn.nature@gmail.com to confirm your attendance.
Directions: The park can be accessed from the west end of Township Rd 394, located west of Hwy 20 on the east side of Sylvan Lake. Burns Nature Park is a 20-acre sanctuary on the east side of Sylvan Lake in Lacombe County. The park, donated by the Burns family in 2023, features about two kilometers of hiking trails through poplar forests, wetlands, and along the shoreline, offering views of the lake. Visitors can enjoy benches along the trails, interpretive signs, and a small parking area with restrooms.

Annual General Meeting with Guest
2025-01-23 17:30 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to our RDRN Annual General Meeting with Guest Lorne Fitch
Moderator: President Rick Tallas
January 23, 2025
Kerry Wood Nature Centre
6300 45 Avenue
Red Deer, AB
Come join us for our 2025 Annual General Meeting, Owl and Lifetime Achievement Awards presentation, as well as a special wine-and-cheese evening with Lorne Fitch. Co-sponsored by RDRN, Friends of Kerry Wood Nature Centre and Freshwater Conservation Canada, this event will feature Lorne Fitch reading from his new Book Travels Up the Creek.
Wine and Cheese: 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
AGM: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
RDRN Awards Presentation: 7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Lorne Fitch Reading: 7:15 pm. to 8:30 p.m.
We look forward to hosting a large crowd. We encourage Members to attend the AGM, (only Members may vote) but will also welcome everyone for a wine and cheese reception for Lorne Fitch. We hope to see you there!
Lorne Fitch
Friends of Kerry Wood Nature Centre
Freshwater Conservation Canada

Family Friendly Winter Walk
2025-01-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Alberta
Join us for a family-friendly winter walk, hosted by RDRN Nature Central!
Enjoy the great outdoors as we explore nature together. Please be prepared for hilly terrain, which can be challenging for some, and come ready for an active walk. Please note, there are no restrooms on-site.
Winter Walk at Radar Hill
Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Directions: Travel 16 km east of Red Deer on Highway 595, then head south for 4.8 km on Range Road 260. The property will be marked with signage at the end of the road.
Coordinates: 52.18670° N, 113.57602° W
What to Expect:
Warm up after the walk with hot chocolate! Be sure to dress warmly for winter conditions. The event will go ahead regardless of snow, but may be canceled if temperatures drop below -15°C.
No Membership Required:
This event is open to all – no membership to RDRN is necessary. Please confirm your attendance by emailing nir.rdrn.nature@gmail.com.
Note: Events are subject to cancellation due to weather conditions and other factors. Please check our website and social media for the latest updates before attending. We look forward to seeing you!
Radar Hill
Radar Hill

Flower Focus Group Meeting
2025-02-19 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: February 19, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
Location: Kerry Wood Nature Centre in the Marjorie Wood Gallery 6300 45 Ave. Red Deer, AB
Host: Don Wales
Topic: Flowers of Canyon Country of Southern Utah with a quick look at Swiss Flowers
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Photos by Don Wales
Plains Prickly Pear (purple/yellow) with Scarlet Globe Mallow (orange)
Sego Lilly

Family Friendly Winter Walk
2025-02-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Alberta
Join us for a family-friendly winter walk, hosted by RDRN Nature Central!
Enjoy the great outdoors as we explore nature together. Please be prepared for hilly terrain, which can be challenging for some, and come ready for an active walk. Please note, there are no restrooms on-site.
Winter Walk at Kinvig
Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Directions: From Elnora, head east on Township Road 352 for 6.8 km, then turn south onto Range Road 224 for 1.3 km. Park along the side of the road but do not block any gates.
Coordinates: 51.98007° N, 113.09998° W
What to Expect:
Warm up after the walk with hot chocolate! Be sure to dress warmly for winter conditions. The event will go ahead regardless of snow, but may be canceled if temperatures drop below -15°C.
No Membership Required:
This event is open to all – no membership to RDRN is necessary. Please confirm your attendance by emailing nir.rdrn.nature@gmail.com.
Note: Events are subject to cancellation due to weather conditions and other factors. Please check our website and social media for the latest updates before attending. We look forward to seeing you!

Monthly Meeting Speaker Series
2025-02-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists February Monthly Meeting Speaker Series

Speaker: Brett Bodeux

Topic: Monitoring Northern Saw-whet Owl Nest Boxes: Experiences and Highlights of Citizen Science Owl Banders

When: February 27, 2025 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.

Brett Bodeux has a MSc in Conservation Biology from the University of Alberta. After twelve years in environmental consulting and working as a professional biologist, he became the Information Coordinator for the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute in 2022. Brett has a lifelong passion for birds of prey, especially owls, and he has been monitoring nest sites since 2016. In 2018, Brett became a raptor bander and now dedicates much of his free time to researching owls.

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

Brett Bodeux
