Strategic Plan 2016 2019 - Beaver Hills Initiative
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Strategic
Plan 2016 - 2019
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 1
Table of Contents
Vision 3
Mission 3
Guiding Principles 3
About the Beaver Hills 4
The Beaver Hills Initiative 5
How To Use This Document 7
Beaver Hills Tourism Defined 8
Foucs Area 1: Healthy Environments 9
Objective 1A Monitoring 9
Objective 1B Evaluation 10
Objective 1C Reporting 11
Objective 1D Active Conservation 12
Objective 1E Collaboration 12
Focus Area 2: Healthy Communities 13
Objective 2A Knowledge 14
Objective 2B Economy 14
Objective 2C Social 15
Objective 2D Safety 15
Objective 2E Built Environment 16
Focus Area 3: Capacity Building 17
Objective 3A Awareness 18
Objective 3B Education 19
Objective 3C External Liaison 20
Objective 3D Internal Collaboration 21
Focus Area 4: Climate Change 22
Objective 4A Research 23
Objective 4B Partnerships 24
Objective 4C Climate Change Strategy 24
Objective 4D Education and Awareness of Climate Change 25
Appendix 1 26
Acronyms 26
Definitions 26
References 27
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 2
Vision Mission
Through regional collaboration, the Working together for a sustainable
Beaver Hills is a resilient landscape that region, through shared initiatives
is capable of sustaining natural and and collaborative action.
cultural resources for current and future
generations and where people live, work
and play in harmony with nature.
Guiding Principles
Open Collaboration Inclusive Engagement Shared Knowledge
• Partners promote the BHI vision in • Ensure success and support • Strive for a common level of knowledge
their policies, plans and actions. through community participation, that can be shared among all partners
education, involvement, and and stakeholders, enabling informed
• Partners understand their roles in
information sharing. regional decision making supported by
contributing to the environmental,
a common understanding.
social, economic and cultural • Respect the diversity of
wellbeing of the Beaver Hills region. perspectives within the • Demonstrate excellence in biodiversity
Beaver Hills region. conservation and facilitate sustainable
development practices so that people can
live, work and play in harmony with nature.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 3
About the Beaver Hills
The Beaver Hills, a geomorphological feature created by glacial retreat, lies east of Edmonton in the Beaver Hills/
Cooking Lake moraine and encompasses portions of five rural municipalities: Strathcona, Leduc, Beaver, Lamont
and Camrose Counties. Elk Island National Park (EINP), along with several provincial parks and protected areas –
including the Ministik Bird Sanctuary, Cooking Lake – Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area and Miquelon Lake
Provincial Park, are also found within the Beaver Hills. This ecologically-significant region encompasses 1,572 km2
(607 miles2) and forms a distinctly visible landscape feature raised approximately 750 m above sea level.
The Beaver Hills is a critical regional source of both surface and ground water, and a large proportion of lands,
both public and private, remain in a natural, extensively treed, state.
The Beaver Hills’ knob and kettle terrain – coupled with relatively poor soil for agriculture – has historically
prevented extensive clearing of land, allowing approximately 43% of the area to remain in its natural condition.
The moraine is characterized by complex hummocky terrain that forms a patchwork of depressional areas, many
of which support wetlands and small lakes. The uplands support aspen-dominated boreal mixedwood forest habitat
which, along with lakes and wetlands, supports a high diversity of plant and animal life. Approximately 25% of the
Beaver Hills is presently under some level of protected area designation (total area protected is 39,869.55 ha).
Like all areas of Alberta, the Beaver Hills is experiencing increasing land use pressure from recreation, urban and
country residential development, industry and agriculture, placing increasing demands on the area’s ecosystems.
In order for these ecosystems to remain sustainable, decision makers must consider their sensitivity to
development when reviewing growth and development plans.
STRATHCONA COUNTY LAMONT
COUNTY
BEAVER HILLS MORAINE
EDMONTON ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
LEDUC COUNTY
BEAVER COUNTY
CAMROSE
COUNTY
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 4
The Beaver Hills Initiative
To help decision makers balance the social, economic,
environmental, heritage and cultural goals of the Beaver Hills area,
a number of organizations — including municipal, provincial and
federal governments, industry, non-government organizations
and academia — came together in 2002 and formed what is today
known as the Beaver Hills Initiative (BHI).
Shortly after forming, the BHI began working towards creating a sustainable region in the Beaver Hills. This shared
goal was to be accomplished through shared initiatives and coordinated action, by providing sound science and land
management recommendations on bioregional management and promoting a total landscape approach to land
use planning. International evidence suggests that conserving biodiversity and “natural capital” is a prerequisite to
sustainable development. The conservation of the distinct landscape in the Beaver Hills results in “public goods”,
a natural capital asset of value. In this context, bioregional management provides a means of addressing the tension
between development and the conservation of biodiversity at the regional level.
Funding of the BHI (over two million dollars since 2002, including successful grant applications), has come from
all three levels of government as well as a variety of private foundations. Representatives of over 30 agencies
participate in the BHI Collaborative (Board) and/or sit on individual Working Groups; it is estimated that this
represents over three million dollars of in-kind contributions since 2002.
The BHI has submitted a nomination for designation of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve under the Man
and Biosphere Program (MAB) of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Designation as a Biosphere Reserve will provide international recognition not only of the biodiversity and ecological
integrity of the protected areas within the region, but also the way in which land-use planning and environmental
management practices promote sustainable development. Biosphere Reserve designation demonstrates the way
in which humans can live and work in harmony with nature. Biosphere Reserve designation will also enable the
BHI to become a more active participant and contributor to finding environmental stewardship solutions to global
challenges such as climate change, the provision of ecosystem services, and the impact of urbanization on rural
landscapes. The BHI exemplifies the benefits of a bioregional approach to conservation and responsible land-use
planning and management. For example, value of the partnership with BHI and the importance of the potential
designation of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve form the foundation of ongoing management goals
set out in the 2011 Elk Island National Park Management Plan.
Should the designation of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve be successful, ongoing work with Federal and
Provincial protected areas, research and monitoring, policy development, communication and education identified
in the BHI Land Management Framework (2015) will be reviewed by the Board and all working groups to ensure the
goals and objectives of the Biosphere Reserve designation are linked within the BHI Land Management Framework
and Strategic Plan. Designation as a Biosphere Reserve will elevate the level of commitment by land use decision
makers and managers and further partnership building, involvement of the community, and implementation of
new policies.
State of the Moraine Report and Sustainable Tourism Development with a focus on Nature Based Tourism, Agri-
Tourism and Heritage/Cultural Tourism has been assessed in partnership with Provincial Tourism Parks and
Recreation (TPR), Federal Parks Canada (EINP), municipalities and local operators in the BHI area. As the trend
for local and heritage food securement and food systems planning continue to evolve, the BHI will engage with
partnering municipalities to promote and highlight the unique value of the diverse agriculture found in the
Beaver Hills.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 5
Working Groups 1. Councillors Working Group (CWG) The CWG supports the BHI Vision and Strategic Plan by coordinating consistent messaging and is responsible for policy development that provides outcomes supporting ecological health and biodiversity within the Beaver Hills. 2. Communication and Outreach Working Group (COWG) The COWG is responsible to outline coordinated, consistent and complementary BHI messaging founded on the BHI Vision, Mission and Guiding Principles for both our internal and external stakeholders. 3. Protected Areas Working Group (PAWG) The overall goal of PAWG is to ensure a collective and coordinated approach, involving all levels of government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academia, to protect, restore, and sustain the biodiversity, integrity, ecological health, and landscape character of the Beaver Hills. 4. Planning Working Group (PWG) The PWG works to develop policy options for use by the five partner municipalities of the BHI. The group also includes representatives from the University of Alberta, Elk Island National Park, Agriculture Canada, and Alberta Tourism, Parks, and Recreation. 5. Research and Monitoring Working Group (RMWG) The focus of the RMWG is to identify, promote and support relevant research in the Beaver Hills, consistent with the objectives of the BHI. This includes research in the natural, social and cultural sciences, economic and market analyses, and technological and best practices. 6. Beaver Hills Tourism Working Group (BHTWG) The BHTWG works with government partners, operators, cultural agencies, visitors and residents to encourage the growth, development, promotion and enjoyment of Beaver Hills tourism opportunities within the Beaver Hills. This work enables a growing economy that is compatible with the natural landscape. 7. Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve Working Group (BHDSPWG) The BHDSPWG is a voluntary collective of member organisations in the BHI which meets regularly to exchange information and further initiatives that support the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, including seeking an International Dark Sky designation. Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 6
How To Use This Document
The remaining pages list the BHI’s goals, objectives and intended activities within four Focus Areas, which align
with UNESCO’s MAB 2015-2025 Objectives (the description after each Focus Area is from UNESCO).
1. Healthy Environments
Conservation of biodiversity, restoration and enhancement of ecosystem services and fostering of the sustainable
use of natural resources
Goal: Maintain the ecological integrity and landscape character of the Beaver Hills
2. Healthy Communities
Contributions toward building sustainable, healthy and equitable societies, economic and thriving
human settlements
Goal: Ensure that the Beaver Hills ecosystem is a foundation for economically, environmentally and socially
healthy communities
3. Capacity Building
Facilitate sustainability science and education for sustainable development
Goal: Knowledge and pride of the Beaver Hills will be shared throughout the broader region and the global
biosphere network
4. Climate Change
Support mitigation and adaptation to climate change and other aspects of global environmental change
Goal: Ensure planning within the Beaver Hills will include consideration of potential impacts from, and
contributions toward, global climate change
For each activity, additional information is provided
• Timing is ascribed based on the need of the activity (rather than opportunity of funding), although this may
be adapted over time.
Short Term – 1 year
Medium Term – 2 years
Long Term – 3+ years
• One BHI group is assigned the lead role and is responsible for undertaking the work necessary to complete the
task. This is indicated by a coloured large • (see below for group colours). For some activities, support roles are
indicated by a smaller • with the lead role’s colour.
CWG (Councillors Working Group)
COWG (Communication and Outreach Working Group)
PAWG (Protected Areas Working Group)
PWG (Planning Working Group)
RMWG (Research and Monitoring Working Group)
BHTWG (Beaver Hills Tourism Working Group)
BHDSPWG (Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve Working Group)
Exec (Executive Committee)
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 7
Beaver Hills Tourism Defined
Rural tourism can be defined as the “country experience” which encompasses a wide range of attractions and
activities that take place in agricultural or non-urban areas. Its essential characteristics include wide-open spaces,
low levels of tourism development, and opportunities for visitors to directly experience agricultural and/or natural
environments.
The major types of rural tourism include:
• Heritage Tourism (Cultural Heritage Tourism) where the primary purpose is experiencing places and activities
that represent the past.
• Nature-Based Tourism/Ecotourism (sometimes called Recreation-Based Tourism). Nature-based tourism may
be passive, e.g. observing nature, or active where participants take part in outdoor recreation or adventure
travel activities.
• Agritourism which involves the act of visiting a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural or agribusiness
operation for the purpose of enjoyment, education, or active involvement in the activities of the farm or operation.
It includes: farmers’ markets, overnight farm and ranch stays, ‘pick-your-own’, visiting agriculture related festivals,
museums and other such attractions.
Government of Alberta, Agriculture and Rural Development (2010). Rural Tourism: An Overview
Beaver Hills Tourism
Nature-Based Cultural Heritage
Agri-Tourism
Tourism Tourism
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 8
Focus Area 1: Healthy Environments
Conservation of biodiversity, restoration and enhancement
of ecosystem services and fostering of the sustainable use
of natural resources.
Goal: Maintain the ecological integrity and landscape character of the Beaver Hills
We will do this by:
a) Monitoring Scientific and traditional knowledge is collected for an effective bioregional approach
to conservation
b) Evaluation Scientific and traditional knowledge is evaluated and provides the basis for an effective
bioregional approach to conservation
c) Reporting Scientific and traditional knowledge is reported to members and public to provide
awareness of the ecological integrity of the Beaver Hills
d) Active Conservation Partnerships are leveraged to facilitate environmental stewardship projects
e) Collaboration Collaboration provides the basis for knowledge and information sharing for
conservation and stewardship
Objective 1A Monitoring
Scientific and traditional knowledge is collected for an effective
bioregional approach to conservation.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
Actions PWG
1.S olicit information on traditional ecological knowledge and practices including • •
the tangible and intangible cultural significance of the biodiversity and
landscape character of the Beaver Hills by liaising with Treaty Six First Nations
and Metis Nation of Alberta (Parks Canada -EINP continues working with the
Enoch Reserve).
2. Review and implement the BHI 2016-2019 GIS Data Management Plan. • •
3. Develop a draft approach to engaging with, and learning from, indigenous • • • •
communities and other holders of traditional knowledge in the Beaver Hills.
This would include a framework for capturing, storing and accessing the data
collected by or from these groups. May want to engage an external expert
with previous experience with indigenous groups and/or collecting traditional
knowledge.
4. Update inventory of TDOA and identify data gaps and investigate standards • •
of measure to be used: International/ Biosphere.
5. Investigate standards of measure/certification to be used by biospheres up • •
to an International level.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 9
Focus Area 1: Healthy Environments
Objective 1B Evaluation
Scientific and traditional knowledge is evaluated and provides the
basis for an effective bioregional approach to conservation.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.R esearch opportunities to apply market based programs through municipal • •
partnerships (such as ALUS).
2. Research and lead application process for regional collaboration grants. • • • • •
3. Advocate for changes to MGA to support how environmental and municipal • • •
reserves are defined and allocated during municipal planning.
4. Identify knowledge gaps on the bioregional approach to conservation by • • •
reviewing indicators of biodiversity and ecosystem health in the State of the
Beaver Hills Report and other relevant reports.
5. Lead review of solicited and unsolicited projects seeking funding and/or • •
logistic or in-kind support from the BHI.
6. Review results from projects supported by the BHI and relevant to the • •
RMWG’s mandate.
7. Evaluate data collected on State of the Beaver Hills indicators against • •
management priorities to guide conservation action.
8. Identify how conservation can be integrated into Beaver Hills Tourism. • •
9. Investigate the feasibility of a bioregional agriculture plan. • • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 10Focus Area 1: Healthy Environments
Objective 1C Reporting
Scientific and traditional knowledge is reported to members and
public to provide awareness of the ecological integrity of the
Beaver Hills.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.T ake existing/new reports and produce ’key messages’ documents for public • • • • • • • •
consumption (fact sheets, web site links, step-by-step guide).
2. Raise awareness amongst communities and residents of the biodiversity and • • • •
conservation values of the urban and peri-urban environment.
3. Require knowledge transfer events as a condition for receiving support (either • • • • • • • • •
as cash or in-kind) from the BHI; these events should target appropriate
audiences (e.g. BHI Board, specific working groups and/or the public). Event
could include a newsletter article, presentation, interactive event, etc.
4. Create standardized protocols for data analysis and reporting for the State of • •
the Beaver Hills Reporting Program.
5. Lead the State of the Beaver Hills Reporting Program. • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 11Focus Area 1: Healthy Environments
Objective 1D Active Conservation
Partnerships are leveraged to facilitate environmental
stewardship projects.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.R efine website stewardship opportunities section to include events calendar • •
with opportunities for participation. If necessary develop stewardship
communication plan.
2. Develop a framework that guides conservation actions in the Beaver Hills. • •
3. Engage community based conservation through the Stewardship Engagement • • • •
Strategy (linking Beaver Hills Tourism).
Objective 1E Collaboration
Collaboration provides the basis for knowledge and information
sharing for conservation and stewardship.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Data sharing through web portals (design website for external and internal • •
use and disseminate data to ensure effectiveness/usage).
2. Review and up-date the BHI Protected Areas Cooperation Plan. • •
3. Develop an inventory of current land uses and land use districts to determine • • •
commonalities. Work toward development of an aligned BH land use zone(s)
and uses. Determine LUB cycle for each municipality.
4. Review previous TDC project to determine application at local scale in context • •
of MGA and ALSA and in alignment with MDP updates. An Issue Brief will be
developed to define recommendations for application.
5. Develop a matrix that compares the conservation methods and tools of each • • •
municipality. Support and link to the BHI Protected Areas Cooperation Plan.
6. Identify opportunities for conservation projects which the BHI can support • •
and/or facilitate. This would include BHI-funded projects, those being led by
other organizations, etc.
7. Invite and engage with municipal and provincial economic development • •
and tourism departments to participate in BHTWG.
8. Evaluate and determine BHI members. • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 12Focus Area 2: Healthy Communities
Contributions toward building sustainable, healthy and equitable
societies, economic and thriving human settlements.
Goal: E nsure that the Beaver Hills ecosystem is a foundation for economically,
environmentally and socially healthy communities
We will do this by:
a) Knowledge Actively collect and transfer knowledge that leads to healthy communities
b) Economy Economic growth that is compatible with healthy communities and a healthy
environment is identified
c) Social Inclusive communities that exhibit social, cultural, and heritage diversity is promoted to
support healthy communities
d) Safety Safe interaction between people and the environment is encouraged through awareness
and educational partnerships
e) Built Environment A healthy balance between natural and built environments is promoted
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 13Focus Area 2: Healthy Communities
Objective 2A Knowledge
Actively collect and transfer knowledge that leads to
healthy communities.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.A ssemble information that demonstrates the economic value of protected • •
areas and ecosystem goods and services.
2. Create a forum for planning application review and discussion for any • •
application within the Beaver Hills.
3. Support other BHI working groups with science-based info/data to advance their • •
projects, outreach activities, etc.
4. Establish common messaging about the social, economic and environmental • •
components of healthy communities (including Beaver Hills Tourism).
5. Request Beaver Hills Tourism is included within BHI members’ related strategies • •
and/or policies.
Objective 2B Economy
Economic growth that is compatible with healthy communities and
a healthy environment is identified.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.L everage branding opportunities. • •
2. Identify and pilot facility revitalization as an energy neutral/energy • •
positive/net zero centre of excellence.
3. Promote the role of protected areas and open spaces as destinations for • • • •
non-consumptive and appreciative forms of recreation and sustainable
rural tourism.
4. Support other BHI working groups with science-based info/data to advance • •
their projects, outreach activities, etc.
5. Identify and promote Beaver Hills Tourism as a socio-economic driver within • • •
the Beaver Hills community.
6. Determine benefits of compatible economic opportunities in the • • •
Beaver Hills community.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 14Focus Area 2: Healthy Communities
Objective 2C Social
Inclusive communities that exhibit social, cultural, and heritage
diversity is promoted to support healthy communities.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.D evelop an Interpretative Planning Strategy for a “Sense of Place” of • • • •
the Beaver Hills.
2. Promote healthy lifestyles and individual activities that are aligned with • • •
healthy ecosystems and overall community wellbeing (e.g. dark-sky,
Beaver Hills Tourism).
3. Initiate a Heritage Resources Inventory program (investigate existing inventories • • •
to build upon).
4. Support other BHI working groups with science-based info/data to advance their • •
projects, outreach activities, etc.
5. Continue dialogue with Fort Edmonton incorporating Beaver Hills’ indigenous • •
history into Fort Edmonton programs.
Objective 2D Safety
Safe interaction between people and the environment is
encouraged through awareness and educational partnerships.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.P rovide general public, interested stakeholders and Beaver Hills Tourism • • • •
operators with knowledge of how safety coexists within a healthy environment/
community (FireSmart, flooding, wildlife safety).
2. Promote messaging on FireSmart and wildlife/human conflict management • • •
(BHI Protected Areas Cooperation Plan).
3. Develop land use recommendations for the implementation of • •
FireSmart principles.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 15Focus Area 2: Healthy Communities
Objective 2E Built Environment
A healthy balance between natural and built environments
is promoted.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Support municipal dark-sky lighting programs and objectives. • • • •
2. Facilitate building of green infrastructure in protected areas. • • •
3. Develop an inventory of related resources, workshops and programs focused • • • •
on citizen science; maintain information on the BHI website (birds, bats
and butterflies).
4. Update a reference section for the BHI website, linked to each municipality, • •
that is called “So you are planning to develop in the Beaver Hills” to provide
information and guidance for the general public.
5. Investigate the planning process to integrate biodiversity into the • •
urban environment.
6. Encourage conservation design guidelines for planning and engineering of • •
subdivisions within the Beaver Hills.
7. Develop an options paper that investigates sewage treatments and makes • •
recommendations for best practices based on municipal operations/practices.
8. Develop a framework for integrating the natural and built environments. • •
9. Develop a certification/endorsement program and determine feasibility of • • •
a Tourism Charter for Beaver Hills Tourism/business operators.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 16Focus Area 3: Capacity Building
Facilitate sustainability science and education for
sustainable development.
Goal: K nowledge and pride of the Beaver Hills will be shared throughout
the broader region and the global biosphere network
We will do this by:
a) Awareness Public is aware of the Beaver Hills and the BHI
b) Education Facilitate education to have engaged and knowledgeable BHI members
c) External Liaison Mutual capacity is enhanced by networking with external organizations that
share similar goals
d) Internal Collaboration Effective mechanisms for internal collaboration are developed
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 17Focus Area 3: Capacity Building
Objective 3A Awareness
Public is aware of the Beaver Hills and the BHI.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Investigate and lead a Biosphere Ambassador Program. • • •
2. Develop and execute an integrated marketing and communications plan that • • • •
includes the promotion of the BHI, the Beaver Hills and the Biosphere.
3. Identify education and awareness goals and build capacity accordingly. • •
4. Identify and leverage existing events to spread BHI and member messaging. • •
5. Design and execute an annual Beaver Hills Day. • • •
6. Support and execute Beaver Hills Dark Sky event. • • •
7. Conduct tours of the Beaver Hills using different themes (timing and frequency • • •
to be determined).
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 18Focus Area 3: Capacity Building
Objective 3B Education
Facilitate education to have engaged and knowledgeable
BHI members.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Identify indigenous communities to initiate an opportunity for indigenous • •
education programs and an interpretive centre.
2. Identify Biosphere Centres for specific education programs. • •
3. Partner with post-secondary institutions (such as Augustana Campus) • •
for educational and indigenous communities expertise and engagement
opportunities.
4. Develop a teacher’s resource page on the BHI website with UNESCO school • • •
program links and information specific to the Beaver Hills. Contact school
boards once the links are available.
5. Work cooperatively with the UNESCO schools (BHI Protected Areas • • •
Cooperation Plan).
6. Collaborate with organizations delivering school programs to encourage • •
integration of Beaver Hills information into their programming.
7. Develop a presentation for educators based on the State of the Beaver Hills to • •
be available on the website.
8. Develop and populate a BHI database tracking educational, citizen science and • •
other outreach opportunities.
9. Identify Beaver Hills Tourism educational materials to tourism operators. • • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 19Focus Area 3: Capacity Building
Objective 3C External Liaison
Mutual capacity is enhanced by networking with external
organizations that share similar goals.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.D evelop Municipal Council and senior Administrative staff tour events. • •
Surrounding municipalities and provincial delegates to be invited.
2. Partner with local municipalities and partners to host/facilitate • • •
local workshops that address shared goals and trending topics.
3. Develop and execute ‘friends’ forum along with volunteer fair for • •
partners to discuss successes and lessons learned towards stewardship
education programs.
4. Maintain a list of organizations with similar mandates. • •
5. Leverage partnerships to share messaging. • • •
6. Establish effective communication and partnerships with other • • •
Biosphere Reserves in Canada, and throughout the global network.
7. Work with other organizations to optimize project and educational • • •
opportunities and volunteer involvement.
8. Annually review working group membership and solicit new members • •
to fill gaps in expertise as necessary.
9. Establish effective communication and partnerships with • •
indigenous communities.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 20Focus Area 3: Capacity Building
Objective 3D Internal Collaboration
Effective mechanisms for internal collaboration are developed.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Work with BHI members to optimize project and educational opportunities. • •
2. Create a policy recommendation paper based on the findings of the Tourism • • • •
Development Opportunities Assessment (TDOA).
3. Support other BHI working groups with science-based info/data to advance their • •
project, outreach activities, etc.
4. Develop an orientation program for new BHI members. • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 21Focus Area 4: Climate Change
Support mitigation and adaptation to climate change and other
aspects of global environmental change.
Goal: E nsure planning within the Beaver Hills will include consideration of potential
impacts from, and contributions toward, global climate change
We will do this by:
a) Research The understanding of climate change impacts on the Beaver Hills is based on monitoring
and applied research
b) Partnerships Partnerships to support understanding of climate change impacts are established
c) Climate Change A bioregional approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation is established
Strategy
d) Education and Impacts of climate change and mitigation strategies are understood and shared
Awareness of
Climate Change
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 22Focus Area 4: Climate Change
Objective 4A Research
The understanding of climate change impacts on the Beaver Hills is
based on monitoring and applied research.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.S upport third party research opportunities on climate change and • • •
climate adaptation within the Beaver Hills.
2. Identify and assess potential indicators of climate change. • •
3. Research assessments related to the potential impacts of climate change • • •
(e.g. fire, flood, and drought).
4. Research impact of, and impact to, Beaver Hills Tourism. • • • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 23Focus Area 4: Climate Change
Objective 4B Partnerships
Partnerships to support understanding of climate change impacts
are established.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Utilize and influence provincial and federal initiatives on climate change. • •
2. Identify gaps in expertise within the BHI, and potential sources for expertise, • •
to develop and implement a climate change strategy.
3. Support Beaver Hills Tourism partners with tools to adapt to • • • •
climate change.
Objective 4C Climate Change Strategy
A bioregional approach to climate change mitigation and
adaptation is established.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.E nsure participation in climate change discussions at the provincial, federal • • • • • •
and international levels.
2. Develop an adaptive climate change strategy consistent with the provincial • •
climate change strategy.
3. Support Beaver Hills Tourism partners with tools to adapt to • •
climate change.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 24Focus Area 4: Climate Change
Objective 4D Education and Awareness of
Climate Change
Impacts of climate change and mitigation strategies are
understood and shared.
TIMING LEAD ROLE
BHDSPWG
On-Going
Medium
BHTWG
RMWG
COWG
Short
PAWG
Long
Exec
CWG
PWG
Actions
1.Translate provincial policy/legislations into common language and key messages • • • •
for BHI members and public.
2. Promote awareness of pollution and energy consumption/source that contribute • • •
to climate change.
3. Work with UNESCO/MAB to determine local indicators that can be monitored • • •
to contribute to better local and global understanding of climate change.
4. Develop a policy recommendation paper for land use decision makers to use • •
in policy development and implementation.
5. Identify and promote examples of community, indigenous, business and • • • •
individual actions to mitigate climate change.
6. Assess and promote strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. • •
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 25Appendix 1 Acronyms ALSA Alberta Land Stewardship Act ALUS Alternative Land Use Services LUB Land Use Bylaw MDP Municipal Development Plan MGA Municipal Government Act TDC Transfer of Development Credits TDOA Tourism Development Opportunities Assessment UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization MAB Man and the Biosphere Programme Definitions Bioregion Bioregions are relatively large land areas characterised by broad, landscape-scale natural features and environmental processes that influence the functions of entire ecosystems. Bioregional Management The bioregional approach seeks to maintain biological diversity across entire landscape regions while meeting people’s needs. The key characteristics of this approach involve combining scientific, informational, social, and economic considerations to define management opportunities and to implement programmes of action and investment. Miller & Hamilton (1999). Conservation Active management of the biosphere to ensure the survival of the maximum diversity of species and the maintenance of genetic variability within species. It includes the maintenance of biosphere function e.g. nutrient cycling and ecosystem function. The term also includes the concept of sustainable resource use so that the environment may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to current generations while maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations. Conservation of species and biological processes must be simultaneous with conservation of abiotic resources or it is unlikely to succeed. Adapted from Oxford Dictionary of Ecology 2010 and World Resources Institute (WRI), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) & United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 1992. Geomorphology The science of surface landforms with an emphasis on their origin, form, evolutionary processes, and distribution. Healthy Community A geographical community of people that has strong economic, social (eg. education, health care, equity, civic engagement) and environmental indicators (eg. clean air, water and land, access to healthy food). Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 26
Knob and Kettle
The landscape sometimes found on a recent terminal moraine complex and consisting of a hummocky mound
(the ‘knob’) alternating with a depression (the ‘kettle’). The ‘kettle’ results from the melting of a block of ice
enclosed in the drift.
Peri-urban
The urban margin or peri-urban fringe is the interface or transitional setting where processes of rapid growth often
intersect with the pressure of rural preservation. As such it can be contested ground. Bourne, Bunce, Taylor Luka,
& Maurer, 2003.
References
1. 2012 - 2015 GIS Data Management Plan (2012)
2. Tourism & Development Opportunities Assessment (2011)
3. State of the Beaver Hills (2015)
4. Protected Areas Cooperation Plan (2008)
5. Transfer of Development Credits Pilot Study
6. Stewardship Engagement Strategy (2012)
7. Land Management Framework (2015)
Photos on pages 1, 3, 6, 11, 13, 17 and 28 courtesy of Alberta Parks.
Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 27WWW.BEAVERHILLS.CA Beaver Hills Initiative / Strategic Plan 2016 - 2019 / 28
You can also read
