Researchers gather for 1st A2A workshop

Thirty researchers from across the A2A region met on April 27-29, at the Queen's University Biological Station, to discuss how an A2A strategic plan might support current and future research on the landscape. Attendees came from Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ontario Nature, Queen's University, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, the U.S. Wildlife Conservation Society, and many others.

Our keynote presenter was Silvia Strobl, from MNR, who talked about the Sustaining What We Value project, a collective effort of communities in South Frontenac, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Counties, in Ontario, to involve residents in identifying and protecting cultural, social, environmental and economic values.

Other discussion topics included: research priorities and gaps, mapping, organizational challenges, partnership opportunities and future initiatives. It was a productive weekend!

Special thanks to the Queen's University Biological Station for hosting us, all the volunteer facilitators and note-takers, and the researchers who travelled to contribute their knowledge and expertise.

Researchers will receive a copy of the proceedings within the next two months. (We'll also send a summary to A2A members — sign up here if you'd like to receive that information.)

If you have any questions about the Apr. 27-29 workshop proceedings or future workshops, get in touch with workshop chair Bryarly McEachern.