For nearly two decades, the Volunteer Wildlife Ambassador Program, led by the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, has played a crucial role in promoting human-wildlife coexistence in one of Alberta’s busiest outdoor recreation regions. With over 5 million visitors annually to the Bow Valley and Kananaskis Country, the need for on-the-ground education and outreach has never been greater.
Wildlife Ambassadors are trained community volunteers who engage with residents and visitors on trails, in campgrounds, and at public events, offering guidance on safe wildlife interactions, responsible recreation, and environmental stewardship. Since 2007, Ambassadors have contributed over 12,230 hours of volunteer service, speaking with nearly 116,000 residents and visitors about wildlife safety and conservation. In 2024 alone, the program expanded into West Bragg Creek’s trail network, an area with 300,000 annual visitors, ensuring consistent messaging on bear awareness, waste reduction, and responsible outdoor ethics.
Beyond in-person education, Ambassadors have adapted to digital outreach, launching Instagram campaigns, educational videos, and bear spray training resources—including translated materials in nine languages to increase accessibility. Their efforts directly reduce negative human-wildlife interactions, improve public safety, and support wildlife conservation efforts by reducing the number of animals relocated or euthanized due to conflicts.
