As a unique, biodiverse area many exciting projects and field trips happen in our region! Researching the region is an important part of educating people on what a Biosphere is and does. With this research we can continue to foster a connection with nature and each other through outreach to schools and within our local communities. This also means integrating cultural, land-based teachings and traditions from the surrounding First Nation communities- a partnership we are excited to continue to learn from. Get inspired by checking out the initiatives we are involved with below:
The RLBR has become a unique place for masters and PhD students alike. Many students who are in the SENS program at the U of S choose to focus their research and thesis on the RLBR. Projects are on a wide range of topics due to the natural transition zone of the Aspen Parkland- something to offer for everyone!
Are you interested in conducting your graduate or post-graduate research on the RLBR but aren’t in the SENS program? No problem! We welcome all students. Contact us with your ideas or take a look at past student projects and publications.
Closely partnering with the university has also become a beneficial collaboration for both the RLBR and SENS program. So much so that in 2012, a memorandum of understanding with the University was signed, strengthening the already close connection that they had formed. The memorandum is important because it allowed the following:
- Expansion of the scope of research and education projects relating to the environment and sustainability sectors.
- Regular yearly field trips for students.
This partnership also allows unique opportunities for many international students that are a part of the program. They get to experience a small piece of what living in rural Saskatchewan life is like along with the ecological significance it has to offer.
Partners
“Learning for a better living”
The UNESCO Associated Schools Project Network (ASPNet) is an international program implemented in educational institutions across 182 countries. All institutions work in support of providing necessary skills and tools to children and young people relating to international understanding, peace, intercultural dialogue, sustainable development and quality education in practice.
How is ASPNet involved with the RLBR?
Hafford Central School is the first educational institution in Saskatchewan to participate in ASPNet. With its close proximity to Redberry Lake as well as residing in the RLBR, the school has become a wonderful place to teach students about the nature surrounding them and why it needs to be protected. Implementation of this program further aims at educating young people on what Biosphere Region’s are and what they do- ultimately providing a strong foundation for empowering youth to embrace nature as part of their culture.
Watch this short film on how UNESCO Associated Schools and UNESCO World Biosphere Region’s work together and build capacity through this partnership.
Want to learn more about the program or have further questions? Contact Diane Hawrysh, Provincial Co-ordinator of ASPNet.
Partnerships
As part of researching the RLBR, findings must often be recorded in published studies or thesis papers. We do this by partnering with universities, scientists, funders and governing agencies. From these partnerships many trends and patterns are discovered about what’s going on in our region and in turn, helps us decide what projects to focus on. We are working on gaining research in the following categories: Social, cultural and environmental.
What kind of research is currently being recorded in the RLBR? Check out our current and past publications by clicking the button below!
We also offer resources for everyday learning like building bird boxes or insect hotels. Both are readily available for both classroom and at-home printable use.
Interested in starting your own project or educational initiative? Let us know how we can help. Contact us today!