Discussing highlights of wildlife conservation in Saskatchewan during the 20th century

At the turn of the 20th century the area covered by what became the province of Saskatchewan was considered, by aboriginal people and European settlers alike, as a wildlife mecca where hunting opportunities and natural landscapes abounded. Historic documentation of what happened to this unique part of Canada has been only in small bits and pieces.

Wayne Pepper’s book, Conserving the Legacy, Wildlife Conservation in Saskatchewan 1905 -2005 discusses highlights of wildlife conservation efforts in Saskatchewan through the one hundred years of the 20th century; a time of tremendous change on the landscape of Saskatchewan; a time of extinction of certain plants and animals and a time when many species and ecosystems have become “at risk” of extinction. He takes the reader through the early settlement days when much of the native prairie was ploughed and planted to cultivated crops and most wildlife was considered an obstacle to settlement if it wasn’t huntable or useful as a fur bearer. He takes us through two world wars, the drought years of the dirty thirties, and the variety of efforts by government and non-government workers to stem the complete destruction of remnant wildlife habitat. He describes comic situations and tragic events that made up the conservation story. Having worked in the field as a wildlife ecologist and manager, Wayne speaks with great understanding about the nuances of managing people from all walks and interests to accept the concepts of wildlife conservation a reality whether it is through conservation policy and legislation or education or children.  His presentation will describe how conservation laws and policies and priorities have changed over the years and will challenge the audience on ways and means to continue the sustain efforts into the 21st century.

Wayne has explored a multitude of sources to collect the wealth of previously untapped information and has made it part of his very readable book.

Members are welcome to attend in person or virtually. 

To attend virtually: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9789243663?pwd=Yk41K3YxZkVsa3AxbU9lSC83OWRxUT09