Central Alberta Chapter

Area of Interest
The Central Alberta Chapter’s main area of interest is the Red Deer River watershed upstream of Red Deer, Alberta, and parts of the North Saskatchewan River in the Rocky Mountain House area. The chapter’s backbone is a strong desire to embrace on-the-ground work and actively seek to influence policies and programs affecting rivers, streams, and lakes at all levels of government. We believe in the power of community involvement and welcome all who share our passion for conservation.

Chapter Description
The Central Alberta Chapter’s mission is the protection of trout and their coldwater habitats, in the west-central region of Alberta. Much of the Chapter’s work throughout the years has been focused on the restoration of the North Raven River, a spring-fed tributary of the Raven River and a trout fishing destination for many residents and visiting anglers. This work on the North Raven River (also known as Stauffer Creek) is celebrated as an example of the excellent work that can be done with volunteers and partnerships to protect and restore stream health.

While the chapter’s core activities have been focused on fisheries and riparian area enhancement, the chapter also places a high value on its members—past, present, and future—whose ideas and passions come together to develop responsible stewardship of our most important resource—WATER.

Chapter History
Since the formation of the Central Alberta Chapter in 1982, we have undertaken numerous impactful projects throughout west-central Alberta, including work on the North Raven River, Clear Creek, Prairie Creek, Blackstone River, McLeod River, and the Ram River system. Our history of successful projects is a testament to our commitment and capabilities in conservation.

The chapter played a major role in leading the initiative to have Bull Trout declared Alberta’s provincial fish. Additional efforts have focused on water and forest management policies affecting fisheries, the Eastern Slopes angling regulations, and policy development.

The chapter has a strong focus on education, providing various projects that educate on fish, fish habitat, and the importance of healthy riparian areas. Funds were provided to purchase educational materials for local libraries and elementary, secondary, and post-secondary schools, ensuring that our community is well-informed about the issues affecting our watersheds.

Support was provided to implement a strong and sustained Freshwater Conservation Canada's Yellow Fish Road program in Red Deer. This program raises awareness of important issues affecting our watersheds and is tailored towards the younger generation, who will ultimately be our future stewards in addressing the challenges that affect our coldwater fisheries.

Chapter President: Bob Vanderwater
Contact: Bob.Vanderwater@rdpsd.ab.ca