Volunteer Opportunities
The Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) aims to increase professional and personal capacity of its members through promoting biological research, life long learning and professional competence. In an effort to facilitate ongoing professional development of our members, we have added the following list of volunteer opportunities. This new section of our website features Alberta based, non-profit biology/conservation groups who offer opportunities for individuals to develop their field skills.
Please note that the ASPB does not necessarily endorse these groups, we are simply providing this information as a starting point for you to investigate volunteerism further. Members are encouraged to contact these groups directly for more information.
If you know of a non-profit, volunteer based group that is consistent with the ASPB principles of promoting biological research, life long learning and professional competence, please email the Mentorship Coordinator at mentorship@aspb.ab.ca.
Alberta Conservation Association
http://www.ab-conservation.com/go/default
Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) conserves, protects and enhances wildlife, fish and habitat for all Albertans to enjoy, value and use. They occasionally require the services of volunteers to assist with one-day projects and program delivery. Phone 780-410-1999, toll-free at 1-877-969-9091 or by e-mail at info@ab-conservation.com
Alberta Fish and Game Association
The Alberta Fish and Game Association promotes, through education and programs, the conservation and utilization of fish and wildlife, and protects and enhances the habitat they depend upon. This organization advocates the common interests of ethical hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to the responsible stewardship of Alberta’s environment. Phone: 780-437-2342 or Email: Office@afga.org
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Canada
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Canada (RMEFC) works to identify and conserve critical
habitats, restore or reintroduce populations of elk and other large mammals, as well as related wild species to their native ranges. RMEFC works on a peer-to peer basis to educate people in rural and urban settings about their role in conserving wildlife habitat. Phone: (403) 845-6492 Toll Free: 1-800-563-7633 or E-mail: rmefc@rttinc.com
The Southern Alberta Land Trust Society
http://www.salts-landtrust.org
The Southern Alberta Land Trust Society is a locally-based, rancher-driven organization dedicated to preserving the ecological, productive, scenic and cultural values of Alberta’s Eastern Slopes, prairie and foothill regions. We educate, promote and coordinate to foster the development and use of management tools to help ranchers improve their understanding and stewardship of the native grassland and the watershed. Ph: 403-646-2600, Toll-free: 1-877-999-SALT (7258), Ph: Exec. Dir. Direct 403-282-7011 or E-mail: info@salts-landtrust.org
Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation
http://www.borealbirdcentre.ca
The Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation (BCBC) is the only educational and research facility in the world strategically located to study boreal birds on their breeding grounds. It also provides research space and computer work stations for staff, volunteers, and visiting researchers and educators. Volunteers play key roles in the banding lab and as Greeter Hosts at the front desk. Phone: (780) 849-8240 toll free: Within Alberta dial 310-0000; wait for the prompt and enter our number including area code or Email at info@borealbirdcentre.ca
The Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation
Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) has been operating a wildlife hospital since 1993. We collaboratively pursue conservation of native species in Alberta, and their habitat by providing rehabilitation programs for injured or orphaned wildlife with the goal of releasing them into their original habitat. We research and promote current wildlife issues and educate the public to encourage greater wildlife and habitat stewardship. There are a number of volunteer positions and internships available. For more information, phone 403-946-2361or Email info@aiwc.ca
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
http://www.calgarywildlife.org
The Canadian Wildlife Rehabilitation Society is dedicated to treating injured and orphaned wildlife, providing valuable outreach and education services to the community, and engaging all volunteers in motivational work and skill building experience. Phone (403) 266-2282 or Email calgaryw@telus.net
The Cochrane Ecological Institute
The Cochrane Ecological Institute- Cochrane Wildlife Reserve Society is devoted to the conservation and breeding of endangered indigenous species, environmental impact evaluation and ecosystem restoration through the reintroduction of extirpated flora and fauna. We also rescue, rehabilitate and release of injured and orphaned wildlife, conduct public education and field research, and the monitor habitat and species through the development of non intrusive survey methods. Phone: 403 932 5632 or Email: cei@nucleus.com
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Calgary/Banff
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Calgary/Banff envisages a healthy ecosphere where people experience and respect natural ecosystems. We protect and preserve Canada’s wild ecosystems and their species; promote awareness and understanding of ecological principles and the inherent values of wilderness through education, appreciation and experience; and work co-operatively with government, First Nations, business, other organizations and individuals in a consensus-seeking manner. Phone: (403) 232-6686 or Email info@cpawscalgary.org
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Northern Alberta
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Northern Alberta is a citizens’ voice for maintaining wilderness and biodiversity in Alberta through collaboration, research and community outreach. CPAWS Northern Alberta has opportunities for volunteers with a wide variety of skills ranging from one time/event-based, or short term/project-based, opportunities to weekly ongoing positions. Tel: (780) 432.0967 or Email: infonab@cpaws.org
Medicine River Wildlife Centre
http://www.medicineriverwildlifecentre.ca
The Medicine River Wildlife Centre is a wildlife hospital and environmental education centre dedicated to assisting injured and orphaned wild animals to return back to their natural environment. Volunteers help out in a variety of areas at the Wildlife Centre. There are a number of volunteer positions available and each Volunteer may select the area where they feel the can contribute the most. Phone (403) 728-3467 or Email shannon.foster@mrwc.ca
Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton’s is this city’s only urban wildlife shelter. We provide compassionate care for injured and orphaned wildlife and educate the public on the importance of wildlife in their community. There are a number of volunteer positions available for people with a variety of personal and professional backgrounds. Phone (780) 914-4118 or Email volunteer@wildlife-edm.ca
Ducks Unlimited Canada
There are many volunteer opportunities available at Ducks Unlimited Canada such as Event organization and administration, event promotion, entertainment coordination, audio/visual support, event program design and layout, database management, auction and raffle management and ticket sales. Toll-free Phone Number: 1-800-665-DUCK (3825) E-mail: webfoot@ducks.ca
Alberta Native Plant Council
The Alberta Native Plant Council strives to promote knowledge of Alberta’s native plants, conserve Alberta’s native plant species and their habitats and preserve plant species and habitat for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Email: info@anpc.ab.ca or snail mail Alberta Native Plant Council, Box 52099, Garneau Postal Outlet, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2T5