2011 AGM Recap

On October 4, 2011, FRI demonstrated how its programs are meeting the challenge and finding answers to partners’ questions. Held at the University of Alberta’s Lister Centre, the meeting was a day full of insightful, informative presentations showcasing a broad range of research and projects.

More than 100 audience members heard about innovative tools like FRImap, new programs like the Water Program, and leading-edge initiatives like the Berland Smoky regional access development (RAD) plan developed by the Foothills Landscape Management Forum.

They learned about the Yellowhead Ecosystem Group’s efforts to share knowledge among different jurisdictions, the development of the Land use Knowledge Network to move knowledge to practice, and some of the fascinating projects under way in the Mountain Pine Beetle Ecology Program. The Foothills Growth and Yield Association, Grizzly Bear Program, and Foothills Stream Crossing Partnership also shared information about meeting the challenge of sustainable resource management.

“I’m impressed by the diversity of topics discussed today,” said first-time attendee Shereen Trenchard, RPF area forester, Sustainable Resource Development. “It’s important that these connections between research, policy, and on-the-ground action are being formed and strengthened.”

One of the highlights of the day was a presentation by Andreas Zedrosser, a researcher with the Scandinavian Brown Bear Project. The fact that grizzlies and brown bears are the same species came as a surprise to many in the audience. Even more surprising is the success that the Brown Bear Project has had in restoring bear populations in an environment very similar to that of Alberta.

The Brown Bear Project and FRI’s Grizzly Bear Program are collaborating to answer some common questions. “We are a research marriage made in heaven,” said Zedrosser.

The final presentation was a summary of FRI’s Business Strategy for 2012–2017. President Rick Bonar told the crowd that the institute is contributing to a broader geographical region than just the foothills and that the new strategy reflects that. He also said that FRI is interested in partnering with other organizations to explore finding ways of working together to get our message out to wider audiences.

Moderator Keith McClain, director, Science Policy and Strategy, Sustainable Resource Development, kept things running smoothly and offered many insights of his own. Audience participation was also high, with interesting questions posed to each of the presenters.

McClain wrapped up the meeting by asking the audience the ultimate question: Is FRI meeting the challenge? The responses indicated that indeed we are, and that FRI is positioning itself to meet new challenges that will undoubtedly arise as we all move forward together.

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Presentations from 2011 Annual General Meeting