Canada (Except British Columbia)
Animal Alliance of Canada
Website: http://www.animalalliance.ca/
It is committed to the protection of all animals and the promotion of a harmonious relationship among people, animals, and the environment. The group brings together dedicated professionals with proven records in animal protection to work on all levels to protect them and the environment. It recognizes that animals are not ours to kill, eat, wear, experiment upon, or exploit for entertainment.
Contact: 221 Broadview Avenue, Suite 101, Toronto, Ontario M4M 2G3 (416) 462-9541) or email: info@animalalliance.ca
Backyard Wildlife Habitat
Websites: http://www.nwf.org/backyardwildlifehabitat/ AND http://www.backyardwildlifehabitat.info/
It is a website hosted by the National Wildlife Federation of the US. However, it is such an informative site, and has certified thousands of habitats including those in Canada, that it should be included. Since 1973, its program has been helping people garden for wildlife. The program encourages all persons--homeowner, teacher, community leader--to plan their landscape with the needs of wildlife in mind, and gives them the tools they need to make it happen.
Banff Environmental Action and Research Society (BEAR)
Website: http://www.bearsociety.org/
It is a non-profit conservation group incorporated in 1996. BEAR is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of wilderness habitat in the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies. The founders believed that through the collective efforts of its members, it can be a guardian and advocate for wilderness habitat. It is an association that involves individuals, organizations and businesses with a focus on research, education, and action. Some objectives are: to support and participate in research projects that focus on the wilderness of the Eastern Slopes of the Canadian Rockies and the effects of human activity on these areas; to champion the protection of wilderness habitat in the administrative, judicial, and political arenas in Canada; to foster an understanding of, respect for, and appreciation for the protection of wilderness habitat of the Eastern Slopes of the Canadian Rockies; to encourage the protection of wilderness habitat by providing educational materials to the public, government, and others; and to convey research results to the public through communications media.
Contact: P.O. Box 853, Banff, Alberta T1L 1A8 (403-762-0361) or email: information@bearsociety.org
Bow Valley Grizzly Bear Alliance (BVGBA)
Website: http://www.bearsociety.org/index.html
It is a growing collective of organizations, foundations, and businesses representing almost 500,000 conservation-minded individuals who are committed to maintaining a healthy grizzly bear population in Banff National Park, the Bow Valley watershed, and the province of Alberta. The Grizzly Bear Alliance (GBA) was formed in October 2001 after six grizzly bears were killed in or removed from the Bow Valley Watershed during the previous eighteen months. After several more grizzlies were killed, the total reached approximately 10%, or 5% per year, of the bears in a population that can sustain only an annual human-caused mortality rate of 1-2%.
Contact: P.O. Box 853, Banff, Alberta T1L 1A8 (403) 762-0361) or email: information@bearsociety.org
Bragg Creek Environmental Coalition (BCEC)
Website: http://www.nucleus.com/~bcec/
It is a not-for-profit society organized in 1995. Its roots, however, date back to 1987, when concerned residents joined together to object to a massive logging project in the West Bragg Creek area. Some of its projects include: Committee for Instream Objectives Upper Elbow River, Bow River Basin Water Quality Foundation, Shell Moose Mountain Gas Development, McLean Creek Harvest Plan Advisory Committee, Husky Moose Mountain Oil and Gas Development, Alberta Forest Conservation Strategy, Kananaskis Coalition, Logan Ridge Area Protection Project, Bragg Creek Hamlet Development Issues, Elbow Sheep Wildland Park Input, High Country News Monthly Article, Agricultural Leases Review Committee Input, and The Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) Conservation Initiative.
Contact: BCEC, P.O. Box 662, Bragg Creek, Alberta T0L 0K0 (403-949-2207) or email: bcec@nucleus.com
Bras d'Or Stewardship Society
Website: http://www.baddeck.com/bss/
It is a non-profit, membership organization, established under the laws of Nova Scotia, and comprised of committed individuals who promote accountable and responsible stewardship of the Bras d'Or Lake and its watershed. Its goal is to promote an appropriate strategy to conserve, restore, and protect the lake for now and future generations. Through public meetings, newsletters, and educational activities, the group works to conserve, protect and restore the lake and its watershed.
Contact: PO Box 158, Baddeck, Nova Scotia BOE 1BO (902-756-3264) or email: stewardship@baddeck.com
Canada's Green Pages
Website: http://www.thegreenpages.ca/home.asp
It is a national network of eco-minded individuals whose mission is to empower and support students, educators, and communities by connecting them to environmental information for the purpose of making meaningful contributions towards environmental sustainability. Along with an extensive web resource directory, the network also provides the latest environmental news, events, and related activities from across Canada; opportunities for students, organisations, and community groups to share, disseminate, and promote their environmental information; and such other environmental resources as links to reports, reviews, and interesting articles found on the World Wide Web.
Contact: E-mail page is provided on their website.
Canadian Arctic Resources Committee CARC
Website: http://www.yukonconservation.org/index.html
It is a citizens' organization incorporated under federal law, with over 3,500 supporters coming from every province and territory, as well as from other countries. The Committee is made up of individuals with different backgrounds, expertise, and of various political persuasions; but all share a long-standing interest in northern Canada and believe that we have a responsibility to treat the North with deliberation, care, and good stewardship. CARC has published dozens of books and monographs that provide insight and careful analyses of the complex issues of the North.
Contact: (Yellowknife office) 3rd Floor, Mackay Building, 4910 - 50th Street, Box 1705, Yellowknife NWT X1A 2P3 (867-873-4715).
(Ottawa office) 1276 Wellington Street, 2nd Floor, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 3A7 (613-759-4284 or toll free 866-949-9006) or email the director of research: koreilly@theedge.ca
Canadian Audubon Society
Website: http://www.cnf.ca/about/history_early.html
It became the Canadian Nature Federation in 1971. Its mission is the protection of nature, its diversity, and the processes that sustain it. To fulfil this mission, the CNF operates under guiding principles: since humans are an integral part of nature and dependent on it, they protect themselves by protecting nature. This protection requires a strong commitment to environmentally responsible living through every person's daily activities. Strategies for protection are based on sound science, ecological knowledge, and a passion.
Contact: Suite 606, 1 Nicholas Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 7B7 (613-562-3447 or toll free 1-800-267-4088) or email: cnf@cnf.ca
Canadian Coalition for Health and Environment
Website: http://www.cche-info.com/
CCHE is a nonprofit organization founded in February 2003 and made up of groups across Canada which have joined together to discourage the unnecessary use of toxic chemicals to kill mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile virus. Pesticides kill and potentially increase risk of WNV whereas healthy people and biodiversity greatly minimise the risk. Therefore, the mission of CCHE is to raise public awareness on the issue of pesticides and other toxic chemicals by engaging doctors, scientists, interested groups, and individuals across Canada and by creating ties with similar organizations throughout North America and overseas.
Contact: 31 Alloway Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3G 0Z7 (204-229-9613) or email: CCHE@mts.net
Canadian Council on Ecological Areas (CCEA)
Website: http://www.ccea.org/ (http://www.ccea.org/contacts.html lists contacts throughout Canada)
It is committed to facilitating the establishment of a comprehensive network of protected areas which are linked together in a system that will protect Canada's terrestrial and aquatic diversity. CCEA objectives are: to guide the design and completion of a Canada-wide protected areas network; to determine the ecological requirements and institutional arrangements needed to secure a protected areas network; to advance sound stewardship of protected areas; to promote the environmental and socio-economic values of protected areas; and to facilitate the exchange of relevant information among interested partners through regional, national and international forums.
Contact: Ed Wiken, 2067 Fairbanks Ave., Ottawa, Ontario K1H 5Y9 (613-421-4804) or email: EdWiken@rogers.com
Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA)
Website: http://www.cela.ca/
It is a non-profit, public interest organization established in 1970 to use existing laws to protect the environment and to advocate environmental law reforms. It is also a free legal advisory clinic for the public of Ontario and will act at hearings and in courts on behalf of citizens or citizens’ groups who are otherwise unable to afford legal assistance. Funded by Legal Aid Ontario, CELA is one of seventy-two community legal clinics located across Ontario, fifteen of which offer services in specialized areas of the law.
Contact: 130 Spadina Ave., Suite 301, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2L4 (416-960-2284) or email: intake!cela.ca (for non-legal information) or articling cela@lao.on.ca (for legal inquiries)
Canadian Environmental Network (CEN)
Website: http://www.cen-rce.org/eng/index.html
It is an independent, non-partisan organization which does not take positions on environmental issues. Rather, CEN actively encourages and supports those who take part in public consultation processes, participate in working groups, or who are delegates to national and international conferences. More and more federal government departments favour the CEN's delegate selection process because it is transparent, bilingual, and supported by the environmental community for its unparalleled and effective voice for reaching policy-makers. When it was established in 1977, the CEN's objective was to support and strengthen the participation of environmental non-government organizations (ENGOs) in their consultations with Environment Canada. Since then, the CEN has strived to broaden its scope. Today, it provides coordination, communication, research, and networking services to more than 800 Canadian environmental groups affiliated through one of CEN's eleven regional networks.
Contact: See website for contacts in each province.
Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy (CIELAP)
Website: http://cielap.org/
It is an independent, not-for-profit research and educational organization, founded in 1970. Its mission is to provide leadership in the research and development of environmental law and policy that promotes the public interest and sustainability. This is accomplished by examining the environmental, social, and economic impacts of current policies, laws, and practices and by researching, formulating, and communicating more sustainable alternatives. It reaches out to the community through such programs as our Citizens’ Guides, poster maps of Canada, and a website, which help people to understand environmental issues and to take actions to create healthier communities.
Contact: 130 Spadina Ave. Suite 305, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2L4 (416-923-3529) or email: cielap@cielap.org
Canadian International Institute For Sustainable Development (IISD)
Website: http://www.iisd.org/
It has a "better living for all" vision and champions innovation by enabling societies to live sustainably. IISD receives operating grant support from the Government of Canada, provided through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and Environment Canada, and from the Province of Manitoba. Project funding is received from the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, other national governments, United Nations agencies, foundations, and the private sector. IISD is registered as a charitable organization in Canada and has 501(c) (3) status in the United States. The head office is in Winnipeg, with other offices in Ottawa, New York, and Geneva.
Contact: 161 Portage Avenue East, 6th Floor, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 0Y4 (204-958-7700) or email: info@iisd.ca
Canadian Kindness Movement
Website: http//www.kindness.ca/
It is a national network of individuals and organizations dedicated to building a more compassionate nation and world through the sharing of ideas and initiatives that move us beyond all political, religious, and cultural boundaries.
Contact: info@kindness.ca
Canadian Nature Federation (CNF)
Website: http://www.cnf.ca/
It actually began in 1939 when Reginald Whittemore started the Canadian Nature magazine as a tribute to his late wife. As a dedicated teacher and naturalist, she delighted in introducing children to the wonders of the natural world-—and the magazine that honoured her memory did the same. Over time, Canadian Nature grew into the Canadian Nature Federation—-a non-profit conservation organization with over 40,000 supporters and a network of more than 100 affiliated naturalist groups of like ideals.
Contact: CNF, Suite 606, 1 Nicholas Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 7B7 (613-562-3447) or (toll free -- 1-800-267-4088) or email: cnf@cnf.ca
Canadian Organic Growers
Website: http://www.cog.ca/
It is the national information website for organic farmers, gardeners, and consumers in all provinces. The organization has chapters in British Columbia (3), Manitoba (1), Yukon (1), Ontario (9) and the main office in New Brunswick and individual representatives from elsewhere in the country. Organically-grown food has proven to be the best choice for environmental sustainability and fors being healthier. The organization feels that genetically engineered (GE) or genetically modified (GMOs) foods are contrary to their ideals of health and environmental sustainability and provide such reasoning on the subject.
Contact: The National Office, 125 South Knowlesville Road, Knowlesville, New Brunswick E7L 1B1 (506-375-7383) or email: office@cog.ca
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS)
Website: http://www.cpaws.org/
It focuses on establishing new parks while making sure that wilderness areas, and the wildlife populations they support, are conserved and protected. There are several chapters across Canada which can be contacted from the main site.
Canadian Rainforests
Website: http://www.canadianrainforests.org/
It is a website hosting a wealth of information on Canada's rainforests.
Canadian Waters
Website: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/canwaters-eauxcan/index.html
It is a website from Oceans Canada that links useful and interesting information about Canada’s oceans and fish habitat, including such topics as finding out the legislation for building a dock and activities and programs that show how a person can become involved. The educational component called, The Big Blue Bus, is geared towards parents, teachers, and students where they can learn new ocean and freshwater facts, enter contests, play games, and activities.
Contact: Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Station 10N191, 200 Kent Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0E6 (613-993-0999) or email: info@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Canadian Wildlife Federation
Websites: (1) http://www.cwf-fcf.org (2) http://www.wildeducation.org (3) http://www.wildaboutgardening.org (4) http://www.spaceforspecies.ca
It is dedicated to the fostering of awareness and appreciation of our natural world. By spreading knowledge of human impacts on the environment, sponsoring research, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, recommending legislative changes, and cooperating with like-minded partners, CWF encourages a future in which Canadians may live in harmony with nature. Since 1962, CWF has advocated the protection of Canada's wild species and spaces. Representing over 300,000 members and supporters, the federation is one of Canada's largest non-profit, non-governmental conservation organizations.
Contact: 350 Michael Cowpland Drive, Kanata, Ontario K2M 2W1 (613-599-9594 or toll free 1-800-563-WILD) or email: info@cwf-fcf.org
Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS)
Website: http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/
Part of Environment Canada, it handles wildlife matters that are the responsibility of the federal government. These include protection and management of migratory birds, nationally significant habitat and endangered species, as well as other wildlife issues of national and international importance. In addition, CWS does research in many fields of wildlife biology.
Contact: Inquiry Centre, 351 St. Joseph Boulevard, Hull, Quebec K1A 0H3 (819-997-2800 or toll free 1-800-668-6767) or email: enviroinfo@ec.gc.ca
Caribou Commons Project
Website: http://www.cariboucommons.com/index.html
It is an international effort to protect permanently the calving grounds of the Porcupine caribou herd, located in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. CCP is part of a unique collaboration involving aboriginal people, northern artists, and conservationists who are making people aware of the issue through live, multimedia concert presentations; slide show/lecture tours; and CD releases featuring original music and sound recordings of the Arctic. For more than two decades, the Gwich'in People of Yukon, Alaska, and the Northwest Territories have fought to prevent oil and gas development in the Arctic Refuge. Their goal is to protect the 130,000-strong Porcupine caribou herd and to preserve the heart of their culture. Their struggle has taken them to concert halls and meeting rooms throughout North America; to the boardrooms of multinational oil companies in London, England; and to the corridors of power in Washington, DC, where the fate of the Refuge, the herd and the Gwich'in People will ultimately be decided. In recent years, people from all walks of life and every corner of the globe have begun to support the Gwich'in and the Caribou Commons Project. In doing so, they are taking part in what has become one of the most important and moving conservation issues in North America--that of permanent protection of the calving grounds.
Contact: 21 Klondike Rd., Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 3L8 Email: project@cariboucommons.com
Carolinian Canada
Website: http://www.carolinian.org/
It is a popular name for the extreme southwest region of Ontario where the Eastern Deciduous Forest of North America has its northernmost limits and where many kinds of flora and fauna are found, but nowhere else in Canada. The coalition is a partnership of public and private organizations working cooperatively to conserve ecological diversity in this unique zone of Canada since 1984.
Contact: (Mailing address) 659 Exeter Road, London, Ontario N6E 1L3 (Street address): Grosvenor House, 1017 Western Road, London, Ontario N6G 1G5 (519-433-7077) or email: info@carolinian.org
CarpoolTool.com
Website: http://www.carpooltool.com/x/my/mytext.php?section=cpthome
It was the first website to have provided free online ride-matching any commuter in Canada who wants to carpool. Features include user-specified search parameters, multiple trips and schedules, street maps, cost and emission calculations, and automatic email notification when matches come available.
Castle Crown Wilderness Coalition
Website: http://www.ccwc.ab.ca/ccwcbref/index.html
It was started in 1990 by a small group of southern Albertans who were concerned about the future of the Castle Region. The "Crown" in the name recognizes that the Castle Region is an important part of the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem which extends from the Crowsnest Pass in Alberta and BC. to the Bob Marshall Wilderness south of Glacier National Park in Montana. The Coalition sponsors a stewardship program to monitor the Castle Wilderness and volunteer stewards report wildlife sightings, the activities of other users, and pick up litter. Their observations form the basis of an annual report, The State of the Castle Wilderness. The Coalition holds monthly meetings, publishes a quarterly newsletter and an occasional information report, and conducts hikes to acquaint people with the area.
Contact: PO Box 2621, Pincher Creek, Alberta, Canada, TOK 1WO. (403-627-5059) or email: office@ccwc.ab.ca
Centre for Land and Water Stewardship (CLAWS)
Website: http://www.uoguelph.ca/~claws/
It is an organization which began as the Centre for Soil and Water Conservation, established in 1986. From 1987 to 1996, CLAWS sponsored and supported the Soil and Water Information Bureau, later known as the Stewardship Information Bureau. Today, professors, research associates, staff, and graduate students are heavily involved in projects related to the stewardship of land and water resources. The focus of the organization is to support research, extension, and teaching related to the sustainable use of land and water resources, especially that of agricultural practices, nutrient management, water quality, conservation of natural areas by private landowners, and the evolution of Canadian stewardship programs and policies. CLAWS is located in the Richards Building, at the University of Guelph, Ontario, in the Land Resource Science Department.
Contact: Email: claws@uoguelph.ca
Clean Air
Website: http://www.ec.gc.ca/air/introduction_e.html
It is a site of pertinent air information from Environment Canada. There are strong links between air pollution and health problems, especially for the elderly, children, and those with respiratory and cardiac problems. A large number of studies show that air pollution can lead to premature death, increased hospital admissions, more emergency room visits, and higher rates of absenteeism in the job place. While progress is being made to improve air quality, there is still much to do, and everyone has a role to play. Throughout this site, there is information on sources of air pollution, their impact on the quality of the air we breathe, and on health, as well as the actions undertaken by governments and communities plus some suggestions as to what you and your community can adopt to help clean the air. This information covers such topics as acid rain, POPs, smog, ground level ozone, particulate matter and mercury.
Contact: Inquiry Centre, 351 St. Joseph Boulevard, Gatineau, Quebec, K1A 0H3. (819-997-2800 or toll free 1-800-668-6767) (TTY : 819-994-0736 (Teletype for the hearing impaired) or email: enviroinfo@ec.gc.ca
Clean Nova Scotia
Website: http://www.clean.ns.ca/
It is a non-profit, non-government, environmental organization established in 1988. Since then, it has worked with Nova Scotians to help them understand the importance of environmental responsibility. It has also provided them with the means to make positive decisions about the environment by delivering environmental programs province-wide. Such programs include Home Energy Evaluations, Planet Action Club For Kids (PACK) newsletter, the Climate Change Centre, and the Great Nova Scotia Pick-Me-Up. With over 200,000 volunteers, membership includes individuals, families, volunteer groups, businesses, and institutions from across the province with one thing in common -- the hope of working together to achieve a sustainable, environmentally-healthy society for future generations to enjoy. This is a very good site hosting a wealth of information -- even for those not living in Nova Scotia!
Contact: (902-420-3474) or email: cns@clean.ns.ca
ConservationEconomy.net: A Pattern Language for Sustainability
Website: http://www.conservationeconomy.net/
It is a very good website that provides fifty-seven framework patterns for an ecologically restorative, socially just, and reliably prosperous society. Although American-based, its suggestions are adaptable to local ecosystems and cultures, yet universal in their applicability. Its framework provides the basis for a wide range of training and consulting services that help businesses, governments, and non-profit groups make a just and viable transition to sustainability.
ConserveOnline
Website: http://www.conserveonline.org/
It is a huge "one-stop" online, public library, created and maintained by The Nature Conservancy in partnership with other conservation organizations. This site is intended to foster learning and collaboration, and provide information and support to anyone making conservation-related decisions, from the staff of conservation organizations to land managers at government agencies to local land trusts to private landowners. Through discussion groups and information sharing, ConserveOnline is an open forum for sharing successes and failures, and for connecting scientific research with field-based conservation practice. It welcomes anyone with documents, data, maps, or images relevant to the science and practice of conservation to make these resources publicly available through its site and to share their expertise through the discussion groups. In addition to English, the site also offers its information in Spanish and Portuguese.
Corporations Supporting Recycling (CSR)
Website: http://www.csr.org/
It is a Canadian, not-for-profit, private sector organization that represents the packaging stewardship interests of consumer products and packaging industries. Although it began in Ontario more than a decade ago, it now has a membership of about 120 international, national and local "brand owner" corporations and companies. CSR works with all levels of government, particularly municipalities, as well as non-government organizations and other industry groups to help develop sustainable municipal recycling and waste diversion systems. It now has a start in seven provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
Contact: info@csr.org
Craik Sustainable Living Project
Website: http://www.craikecovillage.ca/
The Town, and Rural Municipality, of Craik, Saskatchewan, has embarked on a long-term project that searches for ways that will address the issue of sustainability and rural revitalization. Steps towards this goal included joining forces with Hemptown Clothing to develop an industry for hemp fiber and another was the development of this ecovillage concept.
Contact: the Town or RM of Craik, Box 60, Craik, Saskatchewan, Canada S0G 0V0 (306-734-2250 or 306-734-2242).
Defenders of Wildlife (Canada)
Website: http://www.defenders.org/
It is developing unique and creative programs to protect threatened Canadian wildlife and wildlife habitat. These programs are designed to promote public awareness and participation through interdisciplinary educational projects. Defenders work with a broad spectrum of individuals and organizations, including scientists, educators, community groups, and the general public. In 2004, work in Canada will focus on three main areas: endangered species, carnivore conservation, and the boreal forest. In addition, Defenders will be participating in a variety of special campaigns on both the regional and national levels.
Downbound
Website: http://www.downbound.com/
The name Downbound signifies an ideological movement downward. Down the corporate ladder, Down the food chain, Down to earth. Down the root of every thought. Down to every individual. Down past religion. Down past politics. Down to love and understanding. DownBOUND. Globalization policies, corporate power, and consumer complicity all contribute to a world that seems to ignore human rights, animal rights, the environment, and numerous other concerns. Downbound stands firmly in favour of alternatives to abusive labour conditions, animal exploitation, and environmentally unsustainable practices. All of our products are fair labour, vegan, and as environmentally friendly as possible. Downbound does the research and provides you with the detailed product information required to make educated and compassionate consumer decisions.
Contact: 322 Pacific Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M6P 2P9 (Phone 416-604-8552) or email: service@downbound.com
Ducks Unlimited
Website: http://www.ducks.ca/
It is a well-known organization that teaches conservation, restoration, and management of wetlands and associated habitats for North America's waterfowl. Research shows that up to 70% of Canada’s original wetlands in some areas have disappeared as a result of urban development, drainage, and land conversion to agriculture. At the same time, recent issues as drought, contaminated water, and climate change are making us realize that we cannot take our precious water supplies for granted any longer. Wetlands are fundamental to Canada’s way of life as these habitats also benefit other wildlife and people. They filter our drinking water and provide vital habitat for waterfowl and over 400 other wildlife species. While we are increasingly aware of the important roles wetlands play in our lives, we need to stop wetland loss now, before it is too late.
Contact: P.O. Box 1160, Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0 (1-800-665-DUCK (3825)
Eastern Slopes Grizzly Bear Project
Website: http://www.canadianrockies.net/Grizzly/index.html
It is dedicated to the scientific understanding of the cumulative effects of human developments and activities on grizzly bears in the CRE (Central Rockies Ecosystem) and to apply this information in management and conservation contexts. In and around Banff National Park, grizzly bears barely co-exist in one of the most developed landscapes in North America where there are about 1,000,000 people within a few hours drive of occupied grizzly bear habitat. In addition, across the 40,000 sq. km. of the Central Rockies Ecosystem, there is great pressure for resource extraction, recreation, transportation corridors, and resort and housing development. This intensive human use challenges the bear’s future and the future of its wildland home.
Contact: Steve Herrero, ESGBP Steering Committee Chairperson and Research Supervisor, Environmental Science Program, Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4 (403-220-7436) or Dave Poll, ESGBP Coordinator, Parks Canada, Dept. of Canadian Heritage e-mail: david_poll@pch.gc.ca
Ecovillage Network of Canada
Website: http://enc.ecovillage.org/index.html
It lists the names, locations, and contacts for various environmentally friendly communities throughout Canada. (http://enc.ecovillage.org/ecovillages.html).
ElectricGreen
Website: http://www.exworld.org/environment.htm
It is a website with environmental news and issues from across Canada and the world. Contact page is on the site.
Energy Solutions Centre (ESC)
Website: http://www.nrgsc.yk.ca/
It is a service and program delivery agency for the Federal and Yukon governments' programs, relating to energy efficiency and green power. ESC also serves as an information dissemination centre for energy efficiency and renewable energy technology and programs; identifies and cultivates potential links between territorial and federal programs; provides access to relevant technical services; and undertakes outreach and public education activities that mobilize Yukoners to implement projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Yukon.
Contact: 206A Lowe St., 1st Floor, Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 1W6 (867-393-7062) or email: info@nrgsc.yk.ca
Environmental Bureau of Investigation (EBI)
Website: http://www.e-b-i.net/ebi/index.cfm
It is a project of Energy Probe Research Foundation (EPRF), dedicated to the protection of public resources through the application and enforcement of environmental laws. EBI is a citizen-based group that investigates pollution sources and, when necessary, prosecutes those responsible. Its goals are to investigate and prosecute environmental crime, assist individuals and groups in their fight against polluters, develop public education tools to empower citizens to stop pollution, and publicize information on pollution sources and sites. To ensure scientifically and legally strong arguments, EBI researches its cases thoroughly and focuses on a few projects that directly relate to its objectives. EBI's success in these endeavours is determined by the environmental action and clean-up taken as a result of our involvement.
Contact: 225 Brunswick Ave., Toronto, Ontario M5S 2M6 (416-964-9223) or email: EBI@nextcity.com
Environment Canada's Green Lane
Website: http://www.ec.gc.ca/
It is the Federal Government's website to their environmental programs.
EnVision.ca Virtual Resource Centre
Website: http://www.envision.ca/
It is sponsored by Community Services Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. This site builds on the important role of the voluntary sector by providing an online place where organizations can find ready access to information and resources; contribute to the ever-growing content of the vortal; reduce geographic boundaries by participating in the vortal from any location; learn new skills and increase their productivity; and enhance the profile of their organization and the voluntary sector as a whole. Small and informal, rural and remote -– no matter what the size and scope of your organization, you will find resources to help you operate more efficiently, learn about the sector, recruit volunteers, contact other organizations throughout the province, and much more!
Contact: Community Services Council, Suite 201, Virginia Park Plaza, Newfoundland Drive, St. John's, Newfoundland A1A 3E9 (709-753-9860) or email: csc@csc.nf.net
Evergreen
Website: http://www.evergreen.ca/
It works with people to restore nature on school grounds, public lands, and the home landscape, which helps to bring communities and nature together for the benefit of both. A registered national charity founded in 1991, it is a national non-profit environmental organization with a mandate to bring nature to our cities through naturalization projects. Evergreen motivates people to create and sustain healthy, natural outdoor spaces, and gives them the practical tools to be successful through its three core programs: Learning Grounds (transforming school grounds), Common Grounds (conserving publicly accessible land), and Home Grounds (for the home landscape). Community naturalization is a collective effort that includes people from all walks of life in the revitalization of their schools, homes or, community and, ultimately, in the environmental, social and economic functioning of their cities.
Contact: 355 Adelaide Street West, Fifth Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5V 1S2 (416-596-1495 or toll free 1-888-426-3138) or email: info@evergreen.ca
Five Bridge Wilderness Heritage Trust
Website: http://www.fivebridgetrust.ca/
It is committed to protecting and restoring the natural habitat, watersheds, and wildlife on 12,000 hectares of public lands on the Chebucto Peninsula, an area wholly within the Halifax Regional Municipality. The Trust promotes stewardship, scientific research, educational, and recreational activities, and works closely with all levels of government and a variety of community groups to contribute to the economic, cultural, and social life of the area.
Contact: tom.musial@ili.ca (902-876-8976)
Friends of Banff National Park
Website: http://www.friendsofbanff.com/
It is a non-profit organization, committed to increasing awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of Canada's first national park. Through innovative programming in partnership with Parks Canada and the community, the Friends of Banff provide valuable educational opportunities that inspire environmental stewardship. Banff National Park receives about five million visitors a year. Therefore, to enable the organization to achieve its vision of inspiration, it relies on a variety of funding sources and, with retail being the primary source, the Friends of Banff operates three outlets in Banff National Park. Profits from these stores fund educational programs.
The three outlets are: The Bear and The Butterfly (214 Banff Avenue, Banff, Alberta, T1L 1C3 (403-762-8911)
Parks Canada Information Centre (224 Banff Avenue, Banff, Alberta, T1L 1C3 (403-762-8918)
Lake Louise Visitor Centre (403-522-2708) email: info@friendsofbanff.com
Friends of Massassauga
Website: http://www.geocities.com/friendsofm/
It is an organization that provides volunteer support to enhance Massassauga Point Conservation Area. This conservation area is located in Prince Edward County, on the Bay of Quinte, across the water from Belleville, Ontario. The Prince Edward Region Conservation Authority (PERCA), under the auspices of Quinte Conservation, is responsible for this conservation area.
Contact: qmyc2000@hotmail.com
Friends of Mt. Revelstoke and Glacier
Website: http://www.friendsofmtrevelstokeandglacier.bc.ca/
It was founded by a group of concerned citizens in 1986, and officially gained its non-profit status the following year. Fourteen years later, it boasts a membership of 290 people from around the world interested in the preservation, protection, education, and enjoyment of our national parks. The organization funds a variety of projects, ranging from research grants and bursaries to local publications (newsletters, books, brochures, field guides, and guide books), educational programs, and outdoor courses. The funding for these projects comes primarily from the revenue generated through the Glacier Circle Bookstore located in the Rogers Pass Information Center in Rogers Pass.
Contact: fmrg@revelstoke.net
Global Forest Watch Canada
Website: http://www.globalforestwatch.org/english/canada/news.htm
It is an international network of public and private organizations that seeks to catalyze changes in forest use to satisfy current and future needs. GFW is a collaborative effort of many institutions, most of them in countries that are home to the world's most important forests which are seriously threatened as corporations and individuals use them to meet growing demands for timber, fuelwood, paper, wood pulp, and other products, including plant medicines and rare wildlife species. The planet pays a huge price for the loss of these forests and the environmental goods and services they produce. In developing countries, the burden of this destruction often falls disproportionately on the poorest citizens. Broad access to better information about the evolving status of these forests, combined with practical tools for applying that information to management decisions, make it possible to responsibly care for these invaluable forest treasures. WRI created the GFW network in 1998 to make these data and tools more widely available. GFW Canada has recently published Canada's Forests at a Crossroads: An Assessment in the Year 2000. Among other things, the study finds that Canada’s forests are managed predominantly for timber and that harvesting rates appear to be unsustainable over the long term. Canada is promoting sustainable forest management, but implementation has been hampered by widespread government budget cuts. GFW Canada is a network of regional and local environmental groups and First Nations, and currently has chapters in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.
Contact: gfwcanada@shaw.ca
Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup
Website: http://www.vanaqua.org/cleanup/index.php
It is part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). Over the past 17 years, more than 4.5 million volunteers from 120 countries, including Canada, have participated in the annual ICC. Cleanups are more than just collecting trash. They are examples of communities working together to create solutions that ensure our oceans and waterways are kept clean. The Outreach Department at the Vancouver Aquarium has been actively involved in cleaning up shorelines since 1994. From its early days as the BC Beach Cleanup, the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup has grown into a national conservation program designed to reduce aquatic debris. Each year, an increasing number of communities and habitat benefit from the conservation efforts demonstrated by the cleanup’s volunteers. During only one week of September, 2003, over 20,000 volunteers cleaned rivers, streams, lakes, and ocean shorelines across Canada.
Contact: Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, PO Box 3232, Vancouver, BC V6B 3X8 (Messages only -- Toll free 1-877-427-2422 or 604-659-3506)
An email form is provided online.
Green Channel
Website: http://www.thegreenchannel.ca/
It is Canada's first environmental television service with programs geared to help families explore the environment. It is part of WETV, a global television service, and has a goal of becoming one of Canada's premiere sources of information on the environment -— via its television programs, website, and through the links they provide to other sources. It offers portraits of people who are changing the environment, children's shows, environmental news, and documentaries using such techniques as drama, concerts, and biographies. As one incentive for children, they offer a prize of a banner for their school by simply completing 100 acts for the environment to earn the title of "Green School." Find out more on their website.
Contact: WETV House, 42 MacLaren Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 0M6 (1-800-661-8751) or email: info@wetv.com
Green Pages
Website: http://www.thegreenpages.ca/home.asp
It is a Canadian website designed to bring a network of eco-minded individuals together. The general mission is to empower and support students, educators, and communities by connecting them to environmental information for the purpose of making meaningful contributions towards environmental sustainability. It provides the latest environmental news, events, and related activities from across Canada; opportunities for students, organizations, and community groups to share, disseminate, and promote their environmental information; and such other environment resources as links to reports, reviews, and interesting articles found on the World Wide Web.
Greenpeace Canada
Website: http://www.greenpeace.ca/e/about/index.php
Greenpeace is an independently funded organization that works to protect the environment by challenging government and industry to halt harmful practices through negotiations, conducting scientific research, introducing clean alternatives, carrying out peaceful acts of civil disobedience, and educating and engaging the public. Greenpeace seeks to protect biodiversity in all its forms; prevent pollution of the earth’s oceans, land, air and fresh water; end all nuclear threats; and promote peace, global disarmament, and non-violence.
Contact: 250 Dundas St. W, Suite 605, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2Z5 (1-800-320-7183) or email: members@yto.greenpeace.org
Greenspace Alliance of Canada's Capitol
Website: http://www.flora.org/greenspace/
It works to preserve green places in the Ottawa area. Concerned residents formed the Alliance in 1997 out of concern for the conservation of public and private greenspace which is being urbanized at a rate of three acres a day. During the last ten years of its existence, the former City of Ottawa received almost $10 million from developers "in lieu of" parkland, but it did not use one penny of that to preserve or create greenspace. When an urban forest is replaced by housing, buildings and roads, it wipes out the habitat of hundreds of plant and animal species. Urban greenness is essential for a community's quality of life by contributing to personal, social, economic, cultural, and spiritual well-being as well as connecting us with the natural and cultural history of our region. The group also works toward the protection of waterways and wetlands.
Contact: (613-739-0727) or email: info@greenspace-alliance.ca
Harpseals.org
Website: http://www.harpseals.org/
It is an excellent web-based organization whose mission and purpose is to consolidate like-minded seal-kill opponents. It acknowledges efforts and provides information and solutions towards implementing effective strategies for ending the annual Canadian Harp Seal slaughter. Harp seals are some of the most beautiful and gentle creatures on earth and, therefore, an easy target for hunters who want to believe the harp seal is responsible for the decline in cod fishing and, who are not willing to admit that simple over-fishing may be the main reason for the decline in the fish population. The site provides up-to-date information about the harp seal and is a division of Ecodefence.com: (http://www.ecodefense.com/)
Important Bird Areas (IBA) of Canada
Website: http://www.ibacanada.com/
It is a science-based initiative to identify, conserve, and monitor a network of sites that provide essential habitat for Canada's bird populations. It has important news alerts regarding threats to bird habitats and what you can do about it, as well as links to various similar organizations across the country.
Contact: Canadian Nature Federation, 601 - 1 Nicholas St., Ottawa, Ontario K1N 7B7 (613-562-8208 ext. 245) or email: iba@cnf.ca
International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements
Website: http://www.ifoam.org/
It is a worldwide umbrella organization dedicated to leading, uniting, and assisting the organic movement and all its diversity. Founded in 1972, there are now about 750 member organizations and institutions in approximately 100 countries.
Living by Water Project
Website: http://www.livingbywater.ca
It works toward the development of healthier human and wildlife habitat along Canada's shorelines. A national organization, it works with regional coordinators in several centres across Canada. Its major project was publishing On the Living Edge -- Your Handbook for Waterfront Living. This very useful handbook is published in six regional editions across Canada and is designed to help individual shoreline residents, groups, and agencies with information about shorelines and how to protect them. Regional offices include: Alberta/NorthWest Territories, Atlantic, BC/Yukon, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan/Manitoba (see the website for addresses in these regions).
Contact: LWP (National office) PO Box 7, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N2 (250-832-7405) or email: lbywater@jetstream.net
Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC)
Website: http://www.mhhc.mb.ca/
It was established as a Crown Corporation by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Act in 1986 to "Conserve, restore, and enhance fish and wildlife habitat." This is accomplished by working in partnership with private landowners, farm organizations, corporations, conservation groups, and government agencies. Its vision is to ensure a cleaner, greener landscape that benefits all Manitobans. Field offices are located in Brandon, Shoal Lake, Reston, Killarney, and Minnedosa, with the head office in Winnipeg.
Contact: 200-1555 St. James, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3H 1B5 (204-784-4350) or email: mhhc@mhhc.mb.ca
Manitoba Wildlands
Website: http://manitobawildlands.org/
It provides a website that supports the public policy goal of protecting areas in Manitoba. Protected areas encompass land, freshwater, and marine sites where industrial activity, as defined in regulation, is prohibited. Much work remains be done so that Manitoba can reach its goal of adequately representing and protecting its natural regions from logging, mining, hydroelectric development, oil and gas exploration and development, and other activities that significantly and adversely affect habitat. Protected areas in Manitoba may include: provincial parks, national parks, ecological reserves, wildlife management areas, heritage marshes, or other public lands designated for protected status.
Contact: info@manitobawildlands.org
Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Website: http://www.rockies.ca/
It was founded in 1995 to build bridges between people, their perceptions, and their information about this landscape. Miistakis is a non-profit corporation, affiliated with the University of Calgary, that undertakes and supports pure and applied research respecting the ecosystems of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding regions. This area includes an international ecosystem in Montana, British Columbia, and Alberta of remarkable value, having tremendous biological and human socioeconomic diversity and importance. Geographically, the region is centered on the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park and stretches along the axis of the Rocky Mountains between the Canadian Central Rockies and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The name "Miistakis" is from the Blackfoot dialect and refers to the Rocky Mountains as the "backbone."
Contact: institute@rockies.ca
Mining Watch Canada
Website: http://www.miningwatch.ca/
It is a non-profit, Canadian initiative supported by environmental, social justice, Aboriginal, and labour organizations from across the country. It addresses the urgent need for a co-ordinated public interest response to the threats to public health, water and air quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and community interests posed by irresponsible mineral policies and practices in Canada and around the world. Opening in April 1999, MWC shares infrastructure and services with the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) and endeavors to ensure that mineral development practices are consistent with the goals of sustainable communities and ecological health. In addition, its goals are: to strengthen technical and strategic skills within communities and organizations faced with impacts of mineral development; to impose appropriate terms and conditions on mining and in some cases preventing the development of projects that would adversely affect areas of ecological, economic and cultural significance; and to advocate policies to improve the efficiency and reduce the risks of mineral development. MWC is a direct response to industry and government failures to protect the public and the environment from destructive mining practices and to deliver on their sustainability rhetoric. With technical and strategic expertise from across Canada, it endeavors to carry out and/or support the monitoring, analysis, and advocacy necessary to affect the behaviour of industry and public decision-makers.
Contact: Suite 508, City Centre Building, 880 Wellington St., Ottawa, Ontario K1R 6K7 (613-569-3439) or e-mail: canada@miningwatch.ca
National Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) Network
Website: http://www.etcentre.org/naps/
It was established in 1969 as a joint program of the federal and provincial governments to monitor and assess the quality of the ambient air in Canadian urban centres. Air quality data for sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3) and total suspended particulates (TSP) are measured at over 152 stations in 55 cities in the ten provinces and two territories. In addition to the criteria pollutants, the Division, with the assistance from provincial and municipal NAPS network cooperating agencies, carries out a number of other monitoring activities to support priority national air issues. The database has also been expanded to include ozone observations from Canadian and U.S. rural monitoring locations in order to allow analysis of regional ozone episodes.
Contact: 3439 River Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3 (613-990-8559) or email: turle.richard@etc.ec.gc.ca
Nature Conservancy of Canada
Website: http://www.natureconservancy.ca/files/index.asp
It uses creativity in the conservation of Canada's natural heritage. This is accomplished by securing ecologically significant natural areas of special beauty and/or educational interest through outright purchase, donations, conservation agreements, or such other mechanisms such as long-term stewardship via management plans and monitoring agreements.
Contact: 110 Eglington Avenue West, Suite 400, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1A3 (416) 932-3202 or toll free 1-800-465-0029)
Nature Saskatchewan
Website: http://www.naturesask.com/
It was founded in 1949 and, ever since, has been observing, documenting, and protecting the province's biological diversity through education, conservation, and research. As one of the most respected voices in the province of Saskatchewan on conservation issues, the organization plays a key role in influencing policy decisions made by governing bodies, business, and industry sectors. A volunteer-driven society, it has official representatives of more than 30 steering or advisory committees throughout the province and about 2,000 members.
Contact: 206 - 1860 Lorne Street, Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 2L7 (306) 780-9273) or email: info@naturesask.com
New Brunswick Environmental Network (NBEN)
Website: http://www.web.net/nben/
Established in 1991, it is a communication network that links over 70 non-profit, non-governmental environmental organizations (NGEOs). Its role is to improve communication and co-operation among environmental groups and between these groups, government and industry. NBEN provides educational opportunities for its member groups and encourages the growth of the environmental movement in New Brunswick. NBEN is not an advocacy group and does not take positions on any issue.
Contact: 167 Creek Road, Waterford, NB E4E 4L7 (506-433-6101) or email: homepage@elements.nb.ca
Northwatch
Website: http://www.web.ca/~nwatch/index.html
It is the regional coalition of environmental and citizen organizations and individual members in northeastern Ontario. Founded in 1988, it has priority issues that are of a regional nature : energy use, generation, and conservation; forest conservation and wild areas protection; waste management and water quality issues; mining; and militarization. In addition to acting on these issues as a representative body, Northwatch provides support to local citizens' groups, addressing these and other environmental concerns in their community. Northwatch is currently working with members and member groups to improve forest management, to promote community involvement in mine monitoring and management, and to prevent northeastern Ontario from becoming the receiving ground for foreign wastes, including Toronto's garbage, Ontario's biomedical waste, Canada's nuclear reactor fuel waste, and PCBs from around the world. Northwatch has a "pro-north" perspective, and represents the interests and particular issues of the region. Membership is spread from the northern Muskokas to Cochrane District, and from Nipissing to Lake Superior and is affiliated with a number of provincial, national, or international organizations, as a member group or project partner. Northwatch members believe that, historically, northern Ontario has been regarded as an economic commodity rather than community. The north must realize a long-term objective of diversifying the economy while maintaining the natural resource base and making best use of those resources which are extracted. To this end, economic and social decisions must be made with the priority of creating and contributing to a "sustainable" north, largely done by recognizing the inseparability of environmental and socio-economic concerns.
Contact: Box 282, North Bay, Ontario P1B 8H2 (705-497-0373) or email: northwatch@onlink.net
Northern Contaminants Program (NCP)
Website: http://www.contaminants.ca/
It was created in 1991 in response to studies that showed the presence of contaminants in the Arctic ecosystem. Many of these contaminants were long-range in nature, meaning that they had no Arctic sources. The three main contaminant groups of concern are heavy metals, radionuclides, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). (A good book to read on this issue is: Northern Lights Against POPs: Combatting Toxic Threats in the Arctic, edited by David Leonard Downie and Terry Fenge (2003) ISBN 0773524827).
Contact: 11 Nisutlin Dr., Whitehorse, Yukon (867-393-9214) or email: info@contaminants.ca (Another good website is: POPs Elimination Network: http://ipen.ecn.cz/.)
Nova Scotia Allergy and Environmental Health Association
Website: http://www.environmentalhealth.ca/
NSAEHA is a non-profit, province-wide education, advocacy and action organization established in 1985. Its mandate is to increase knowledge and awareness of Environmental Health issues, stressing prevention, recognition, and treatment, as well as advocating for fair and equitable treatment of persons with environmental illnesses.
Contact: PO Box 31323 , Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 5Y5 (1-800-449-1995)
Ocean Net
Website: http://www.oceannet.ca/
It is a new action-oriented, grass roots, non-profit organization founded in Newfoundland and Labrador. Its primary mandate is to help reverse the polluting of the world's oceans and the destruction of marine life by lost "ghost" fishing nets. With a motto of “With a 1st, all volunteer community ocean clean-up initiative,” Ocean Net is partnering with diving clubs, schools, fishermen, community organizations, government agencies, and environmental groups to implement a series of environmental initiatives.
Contact: info@oceannet.ca
Ontario Forestry Association
Website: http://www.oforest.on.ca/
It is a non-profit, registered charity dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of all aspects of Ontario's forests and to develop commitment toward stewardship of forest ecosystems. The OFA has been involved in public education around forestry and environmental issues since the 1940s. Over the years, it has been involved in major initiatives involving restoration, commemoration, and the management of our forests and natural environment and continue to increase public education and knowledge of forestry and environmental issues.
Contact: Suite 107, 200 Consumers Road, North York, Ontario M2J 4R4 (416-493-4565 or toll free 1-800-387-0790) or email: forestry@oforest.on.ca
Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development
Website: http://www.pembina.org/
It is an independent, not-for-profit environmental policy research and education organization. The Institute has a multidisciplinary staff of more than forty, with corporate offices in Drayton Valley, Calgary, and Ottawa, and home offices in Vancouver and Toronto. The Institute's major policy research and education programs are in the areas of sustainable energy, climate change, environmental governance, ecological fiscal reform, sustainability indicators, and the environmental impacts of the energy industry. Charitable environmental education and research programs are carried out in conjunction with the Institute's sister organization, the GAIA Foundation for Earth Education. Pembina Institute was started in 1986 by six concerned high school teachers in response to the Lodgepole sour gas blowout, which killed two people and fouled the air in central Alberta for weeks. The Institute's response to this incident, one of Canada's largest industrial accidents, was to improve safety standards dramatically and forever change the awareness and manner in which oil and gas companies conduct business. Today, the Pembina Institute envisions a world where sustainable communities take creative actions to protect the natural beauty and ecological health of the planet, allowing other species to flourish and future generations to live both satisfying and healthy lives.
Contact: Box 7558, 5001 - 67th St., Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1S7 (Fax: 780-542-6464) or email: riaf@pembina.org
Pollution Watch
Website: http://www.pollutionwatch.org/home.jsp
It lists the top ten pollution sources in Canada.
Quebec/Labrador Foundation (QLF) -- Atlantic Center for the Environment
Website: http://www.qlf.org/
It exists to support the rural communities and environment of eastern Canada and New England, and to create models for stewardship of natural resources and cultural heritage that can be applied worldwide. The Atlantic Region faces similar challenges to ecological integrity and community sustainability. Therefore, it makes sense for communities across the region to share solutions to common problems.
Contact: 1253 McGill College Avenue, Suite 680, Montreal, Quebec H3B 2Y5 (514-395-6020)
Raven Recycling Society
Website: http://www.ravenrecycling.homestead.com/
It is a not-for-profit organization of employees, board members, volunteers, and concerned citizens in the Yukon. Its objectives are to protect and restore the environment by encouraging conservation of energy and resources: by educating people about the environmental and social consequences of excessive resource consumption and demonstrating ways of incorporating the "3 Rs" (reduce, re-use, and recycle) into their daily lives; by developing and operating a comprehensive, Yukon-wide recycling service in cooperation with various levels of government, the private sector, and other non-profit organizations; and by helping to develop and implement measures that will assist and promote the "3 R" philosophy and other environmentally sound activities. In addition, RRS wants to provide a broader community service by giving opportunities to employment disadvantaged and challenged individuals for training and/or employment, as well as offering a supervised workplace for the benefit of Territorial Department of Justice programs. The society encourages and facilitates reduction, reuse, and recycling of resources through public education and by providing the opportunity for citizens to participate in waste reduction through the use of the recycling center.
Contact: 100 Galena Rd., Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2W6 (867-667-7269) or email: raven@yknet.yk.ca
Red List of Threatened Species
Website: http://www.redlist.org/
It is compiled by The World Conservation Union (IUCN) and through its Species Survival Commission (SSC). Although a global information site, it is included here because of its importance to the disappearance of Canadian species. For almost four decades, the Red List has been assessing the conservation status of species, subspecies, varieties, and even selected sub-populations.
Sable Island Green Horse Society
Website: http://www.greenhorsesociety.com/
It is a gathering of people whose purpose is to offer a connection with Sable Island, a unique place that is very difficult to visit. Access to the island is restricted not only by its remote location, but also by regulations intended to protect the island's vulnerable terrain, flora, and fauna. The Society is not a registered non-profit/charitable group, and although members pay annual dues, fund-raising is not a purpose of the society. People simply join the society after hearing about it as the group does not engage in membership drives. The society does not have an office or staff on the mainland, nor is the society affiliated with any other group or agency. Its website is not intended to be a "Sable Island encyclopedia." Through updates and new articles posted roughly once every four to six weeks, the site provides accounts written from an island point-of-view. Some articles will be "snapshots" of interesting events, while other articles will be more in-depth. The site describes the wild horses, seals, birds, research activities, and environmental issues.
Contact: c/o Zoe Lucas, P.O. Box 64, Halifax CRO, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2L4 email: greenhorse@canada.com
(NOTE: Email is only checked every few weeks, and mail sent to the Halifax address is usually collected and delivered to the island once a month; so, be patient, please.)
Sable Island Preservation Trust
Website: http://www.sabletrust.ns.ca/
It was formed in an effort to preserve this unique piece of land. The site gives a long list of reasons why it should be saved, as well as some very informative and moving history.
Contact: 1657 Barrington Street, Suite 310, (PO Box 622), Halifax CRO, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2R7 (902-425-7225)
Sackville Rivers Association (SRA)
Website: http://www.chebucto.ns.ca/Environment/SRA/
It is dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and enhancement of the Sackville River Watershed. Activities include the restoration of aquatic habitat, the development of a conservation corridor, and the implementation of a multi-use trail system for the benefit of all residents of the area.
Contact: PO Box 45071, Sackville, Nova Scotia B4E 2Z6 (902-865-9238)
Saskatchewan Eco Network (SEN)
Website: http://www.econet.sk.ca/index.html
It connects environmentalists within the province and across Canada, and promotes active networking among member groups. SEN members can share information, skills, publicity vehicles, and other resources. It also publishes a quarterly newsletter and distributes information from many sources by email. Membership is open to Saskatchewan "ENGOs" -- non-profit, non-governmental organizations that are concerned with environmental issues.
Contact: 203 - 115 2nd Ave. North, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 2B1 (306-652-1275) or email: sen@the.link.ca
Saskatchewan Wetland Conservation Corporation
Website: http://www.wetland.sk.ca/
It delivers wetland, native prairie, and riparian habitat programs throughout the province. The corporation links agricultural, industry, and wildlife interests to land-use programming in Saskatchewan. The Corporation is responsible for coordinating provincial activities of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) -- which is an agreement among Canada, the United States, and Mexico in an effort to restore waterfowl populations to the levels of the 1970s.
Contact: Room 101 - 2022 Cornwall Street, Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 2K5 (306-787-0726) or email on page provided.
Sierra Legal Defence Fund
Website: http://www.sierralegal.org/index.html
It is Canada's foremost national non-profit organization dedicated to enforcing and strengthening the laws that safeguard the environment, wildlife, and public health.
Contact: Head Office: 214 - 131 Water Street, Vancouver, B.C. V6B 4M3 (604-685-5618 or Toll free 1-800-926-7744) or email: sldf@sierralegal.org
Sustainable Communities Knowledge Network: Centre for Sustainable Community Development
Website: http://kn.fcm.ca/ev.php
It enables prompt dissemination and integration of information specific to sustainability topics. It provides an interactive environment for developing partnerships, identifying contacts, and enhancing networking and communication. In addition to encouraging online discussion, articles, presentations, current events, and news items can be shared. Members have access to peers across Canada in such sectors as air quality, climate change,waste management, water, green procurement, municipal buildings, energy efficiency, land use, transportation, and many others.
Contact: Federation of Canadian Municipalities, 24 Clarence St., Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5P3 (613-241-5221) or email: federation@fcm.ca
Swift Current Creek Watershed Stewards Inc.
Website: http://www.t2.net/sccws/Welcome.html
It is a not-for-profit corporation formed by people in the Swift Current Creek and Rush Lake Creek Watershed areas. Its goal is to promote awareness and understanding among water users of the watershed. In addition, it monitors water quality and riparian health in order to develop cooperative solutions regarding water management issues.
Contact: Box 1088, Swift Current, Saskatchewan S9H 3X3 (306-778-5007) or email: sccws@canada.com
Tree Canada Foundation
Website: http://www.treecanada.ca/
It is a not-for-profit, charitable organization established in 1992. It provides education, technical assistance, resources, and financial support through working partnerships to encourage Canadians to plant and care for trees in an effort to help reduce the harmful effects of carbon dioxide emissions. Trees are very valuable. They: are "the lungs of the earth" and purify the air we breathe; help reduce the effects of global warming by "filtering" carbon dioxide emissions; improve the aesthetics of urban areas, vacant lands, and recreational sites; protect farms and watersheds against wind damage and soil erosion; create and enhance wildlife habitats; and conserve energy by reducing heating and cooling costs in residential areas.
Contact: 220 Laurier Avenue West, Suite 1550, Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5Z9 (613-567-5545) or email: tcf@treecanada.ca
Volunteer for Nature
Website: http://www.ontarionature.org/action/index.html
It is new partnership between the Federation of Ontario Naturalists and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the goal of the program is to provide people with opportunities to work outdoors, enjoy being part of a team, learn new skills, and participate in hands-on conservation projects in Ontario's spectacular natural places. There are two types of events: NCC hosts one-day events called Nature Conservation Days and FON hosts Ontario Nature Volunteers expeditions, which are 3- to 16-day working vacations that take place across the province.
Contact: 355 Lesmill Rd., Don Mills, Ontario M3B 2W8 (416-444-8419, ext. 222 or toll free 1-800-440-2366) or email: vfn@ontarionature.org
Water Watchdog
Website: http://www.saskriverbasin.ca/WaterWatchdog/index.htm
It is a fun, interactive water stewardship program for youth ages 7-14. Its kit includes field guides and materials to test physical, biological, cultural, and chemical data of a local water body. This is an excellent introduction to watershed management for youth.
Western Canada Wilderness Committee
Website: http://www.wildernesscommittee.org
BC Website: http://www.wildernesscommitteevictoria.org
It is Canada's largest membership-based wilderness protection organization. Founded in 1980 (the Victoria Chapter in 1989), it presently has over 26,000 members whose focus is the protection of endangered wilderness and its biodiversity and work towards establishing sustainable resource use in non-protected areas. WCWC believes that an educated public is the most powerful lobby force. Therefore, its main activities include publishing educational materials, ecological research, building hiking trails into endangered areas, and organizing public events. The Victoria Chapter was organized to protect the Carmanah Valley, on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, which harbours Canada's tallest tree, a 311-foot tall Sitka spruce, known as the "Carmanah Giant." The organization also has chapters in Qualicum Beach, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Winnipeg.
Contact: (Head Office) 227 Abbott St., Vancouver, BC, V6B 2K7. (604-683-8220) or email: info@wildernesscommittee.org
(Victoria Office) 651 Johnson St., Victoria, BC V8W 1M7 (250-388-9292) or email: wc2vic@island.net or info@wildernesscommitteevictoria.org
Wetkit
Website: http://www.wetkit.net/modules/1/
It is a web-based kit designed to streamline access to practical tools that can help Canadians better understand and manage wetlands. The site showcases a wealth of wetland ideas and explains how each one can help conserve wetlands, which can benefit you or your business. Wetkit also provides answers to the most common questions, as: Why are wetlands important? How can my activities affect wetlands? How can wetland conservation benefit my business? Where can I obtain help? Its search engines also help users access tools by environmental issue, geographic region, sector of activity, or tool format. This is a valuable resource for anyone who influences what happens on the ground, including farmers, foresters, woodlot owners, municipal planners, environmental assessment practitioners, community leaders, property owners, developers, and anyone else.
Contact: teamwetkit@wetkit.net
Wetland Habitat Fund
Website: http://www.wetlandfund.com/
It was created to support and encourage land owners to conserve and enhance wetland habitat for wildlife. WHF provides landowners in Ontario with financial assistance for projects that improve the ecological integrity of such habitats. Wetlands occur across the province and are owned by thousands of individuals. As a result, their maintenance or enhancement depends on the individual activities of these owners.
Contact: There is a long list of various Ontario area representatives on the site.
Whale Watching Web
Main webpage: http://www.physics.helsinki.fi/whale/
Canadian webpage: http://www.physics.helsinki.fi/whale/canada/canada.html
It is a world wide web service dedicated to increase knowledge of whales. A portion of it is dedicated to whales in Canadian waters. (See also the following sites on recent news releases that military use of sonar may be causing whales, and other marine life, to beach themselves and die: http://www.southcoasttoday.com/daily/10-03/10-09-03/a05wn328.htm http://www.commondreams.org/views02/0805-04.htm) (Another good site about cetaceans is: http://www.closerange.com/links/cetacean.htm)
Wild Education -- Ocean Education
Website: http://www.wildeducation.org/programs/blue_school/oceneduc.asp
It is a website geared for the school student with plenty of information produced by the Canadian Wildlife Federation and is just one of their ever-expanding WILD programs.
Contact: WILD Education, Canadian Wildlife Federation, 350 Michael Cowpland Drive, Kanata, Ontario K2M 2W1 (1-800-563-WILD (9453) or email: info@cwf-fcf.org
Wildcanada.net
Website: http://www.wildcanada.net/frontpage.asp
It is helping conservation groups and individuals protect Canada's 352 species at risk of extinction. Wildcanada.net is a non-profit organization working to protect wildlands and wildlife by combining grassroots outreach with sophisticated on-line action tools. Conceived originally as a program of Defenders of Wildlife, Wildcanada.net has grown to become an independent and important voice for conservation, on-line outreach, and citizenship and community building across the nation. First launched publicly on September 15, 2000, with a national Endangered Species Action Day, it soon became the first of more than a dozen on-line collaborations with some of Canada’s leading conservation organizations. Wildcanada.net spent almost a year prior to its national launch developing its programs, consulting with existing conservation groups, providing support on national and provincial issues, and establishing many of the relationships that sustain the organization today. It conducted a national tour, met with over 300 conservation groups, and introduced themselves to an additional 300 groups by email or on the telephone. Wildcanada.net has a small, dedicated staff working from Canmore, Alberta, with contractors in Vancouver and Nelson.
Contact: P.O. Box 8145, Canmore, Alberta T1W 2T9 (403-609-2509) or email: wild@wildcanada.net
Wolf Awareness Inc. (The Gray Wolf website)
Website: http://www.graywolf.ca/
It is a charitable, non-profit organization dedicated to wolf conservation. Its mandate is to assist in maintaining a sustainable population of wolves in the Central Rocky Mountains through an integrated program of scientific research and education. The heart of the study area is in the central Rocky Mountains of Canada.
Contact: The Central Rockies Wolf Project, 502 Bow Valley Trail, Suite 203, Canmore, Alberta T1W 1N9 (403-678-9633 or toll free 1-888-872-1110) or email: graywolf@expertcanmore.net
www.Carpool.ca
Website: http://www.carpool.ca/
It is a website designed to link people together who have cars and those who do not but want to go to the same place. Canadians’ reliance on the single occupancy vehicle (SOV), as their preferred choice of transportation, continues to contribute to global warming. According to Environment Canada, overall transportation represents the largest single source of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 27% of the total. Carpooling is a simple way for individuals to take part in the climate change challenge while saving money, reducing congestion, and conserving energy along the way. Created by Commuter Connections (a British Columbia based non-profit society established in 1992), the purpose of this website is to provide assistance to individuals who are considering carpooling as an alternate means of commuting.
Contact: email: information@carpool.ca
Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y)
Website: http://www.y2y.net/default.asp
It is comprised of more than 340 organizations, institutions, foundations, and conservation-minded individuals. Participants come from all walks of life, but share a common interest in protecting the unique nature heritage of the Yellowstone to Yukon ecoregion and the quality of life it provides to residents and visitors alike. Many of the network participants have websites of their own (see: http://www.y2y.net/overview/Y2Ynetwork.asp).
Contact: Main Office, Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, 710 9th Street, Studio B, Canmore, Alberta T1W 2V7 (403-609-2666) or email: hub@y2y.net
Yukon Conservation Society (YCS)
Website: http://www.yukonconservation.org/
It was formed in 1968 by a group of concerned citizens to promote the conservation ethic in the Yukon and across the north. Its mandate is to encourage the conservation of the wilderness, its wildlife, and natural resources. Over the years, YCS has earned a respected position of influence on environmental policy and educational matters in the Yukon and, not only serves through education, but also through research and advocacy work in a diversity of environmental issues.
Contact: 302 Hawkins St., Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 1X6 (867-668-5678) or email: ycs@ycs.yk.ca
Zoological Society of Montreal
Website: http://www.zoologicalsocietymtl.org
It is a non–profit organization dependant solely upon the support of its members. In turn, the Society donates funds and in some cases, organizes specific fundraising events to benefit vital conservation projects. For example, the Society adopted a Beluga whale to sponsor research by the St. Lawrence National Institute of Ecotoxicology. It has also purchased over 50 acres of Central American rain forest in a World Wildlife Fund program to protect the dwindling habitats of countless animal and plant species. Most recently, the Society has become actively involved in a conservation project with the Nature Conservancy Canada, in which its main objective is to protect the endangered eastern spiny softshell turtle and its habitat in the Missisquoi Bay area. The Society also supports the work of the Center for the Care and Rehabilitation of Injured Birds of La Monteregie.
Contact: 1117 Ste–Catherine Street West, Suite 525, Montreal, Quebec H3B 1H9 (514-845–8317) or email: contact@zoologicalsocietymtl.org
