North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society

Vision:  Ecologically, historically, and/or archeologically significant natural areas within Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley, are conserved, in perpetuity, for the purposes of:

·         public enjoyment,

·         education,

·         scientific research, and

·         the maintenance of biodiversity.

Mission: The Society works to identify, protect, restore and maintain natural spaces and biodiversity in the North Saskatchewan River Valley within the City of Edmonton, through direct participation, collaboration with other organizations, community outreach and public education.

History: Late in 2007, residents of the Woodbend community learned a large gravel project was proposed for the river valley in the environmentally significant Woodbend area.  As concern grew, the “Community Gravel Pit Opposition Committee” was formed.  This citizens’ group initiated a petition advocating a thorough environmental assessment.  The petition was signed by 7,771 Albertans and was presented in the Legislature on December 1, 2008.

Organizers soon concluded that the potential adverse impact of such a precedent setting land-use issue put at risk the entire North Saskatchewan River valley.  Though Edmonton had been admirably served by the Edmonton Nature Club, Legacy Lands Conservation Society and others, it quickly became apparent there was no organization with the sole purpose of advocating for the conservation of the river valley.  Organizers incorporated the North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society (NSRVCS) in 2008 to intervene on behalf of Edmontonians regarding land-use policy issues concerning the river valley and tributary ravines.  Membership in the Society has to date reached approximately 312 and includes members from across the Capital Region and other parts of Alberta.