Ellen Macdonald is a Professor in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta, and her presentation addresses the university's role in facilitating landscape recovery and renewal. There is an understanding that there are many challenges involved in landscape recovery. This includes the exploitation of natural resources, climate change and changing natural disturbance regimes, which can result in the loss of ecosystem productivity and biodiversity.
Macdonald asks, "How do we wisely manage our natural resources, ecosystems and landscapes for the benefit of current and future generations?" She explains the importance of conducting research so that the best policies and action on the ground can occur. Highly trained personnel are needed, and outreach to other professionals in related fields, and the community at large, are also key to success.
At the University of Alberta, there are over 25 scientists working on reclamation and restoration ecology, who bring with them about 100 other researchers (including graduate students and research associates).They also host the BSc Environmental and Conservation Sciences (Land Reclamation major).
Macdonald discusses the proposed program entitled ACRRE: the Alberta Centre for Reclamation and Restoration Ecology. The goal of this program is to create a concentrated area of research in land reclamation and restoration hydrology which will serve as a guide in how academia, industry and government can work together to solve problems. The goal is to use the results of research to inform practice of land restoration and shape good policy and train the next generation of natural resources management leaders. There will be a focus on both research and training, with an emphasis placed on doing more to connect students with internships and professional development. Public education and engagement will also be a priority, and include school children so there is an opportunity for citizens to learn as well as be heard.
This presentation was a part of the Canadian Land Reclamation Association Alberta Chapter AGM and Conference from February, 2014.
