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Resilient Rurals recognizes the power and potential of small and rural communities to foster resilience and advance climate adaptation solutions. View Projects Discover Resources Connect The Resilient Rurals Model Over 6 million Canadians live in rural areas, which are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change while faced with greater resource restrictions and financial limitations. We are responding to these unique challenges directly and in partnership with the communities most affected with a first-if-its-kind small and rural community climate adaptation model. Regional Collaboration Rural communities are hubs of ingenuity. Our model centers diverse regional partnerships to collectively address the significant and unequal vulnerabilities to climate change. By bringing together unique perspectives and sets of resources, we can effectively address regional challenges. Holistic Approach Small and rural communities are adaptable. But, it is essential for commitments to make a tangible difference in the lives of residents. A whole-picture approach to resilience allows for creative solutions to real problems, ensuring measurable results for those who matter most - the people who live there. By and For Small Towns Trust needs to be earned. Resilient Rurals was started by small towns specifically to meet small-town needs. We understand rural communities face challenges and will work with you to address your community's priorities in an impactful way. Latest Stories Harvesting Perspectives of a Resilient Food Future Food For Thought Native Plant Tools to Support Nature-Based Solutions Resource Hub Adaptation & Resilience Guides Social Media Toolkit Information Library Adaptation Measures Home & Property External Resource Directory Funding provided by: Resilient Rurals participated in the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre’s Climate Resilience Capacity Building Program , which serves to enable Alberta communities to better understand and respond to the impacts of climate change. We extend a huge thanks to the Action Centre and its partners, Alberta Municipalities, Rural Municipalities of Alberta, and the Government of Alberta for championing critical climate adaptation work across Albertan communities of all sizes and in all stages of climate-readiness. We would also like to thank ClimateWest for their Adaptation in Action Program , which enables Resilient Rurals to take the next step in our journey. Our funders have played a critical role in supporting our development into a non-profit tailored towards supporting small and rural communities in Canada. Learn about the Adaptation in Action Program

Severe Wind Warning In most of Alberta, a Severe Wind Warning is given for winds expected to reach at least 70 km/h, or gust at least 90 km/h Key Vulnerable Populations: Anyone who has reduced mobility due to a disability or other factors Who Else May Be Vulnerable? Other vulnerable groups can include people who live in sub-standard housing conditions, and people whose job requires working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If you know someone who may belong to one of these groups, we encourage you to reach out to them, and share this information. How Does A Severe Wind Warning Impact Me? Severe Wind Warnings can cause injury, property damage, and/or make it difficult to operate a vehicle or machinery. It is important to secure loose items, such as patio/deck chair, garbage cans, etc. in order to prevent them from becoming potentially dangerous flying objects. Resilient Rurals Severe Wind Warning Resources: Collection: Safeguarding Your Property, Risks, and Staying Safe For more Resilient Rurals Resources visit the Resource Hub Additional Resources Tornadoes and extreme winds (Government of Alberta) Click here to check out more Rural Assist Program resources

< Back to Rural Showcase Beaver Hills Biosphere - The Role Our Local Biosphere Plays in Regional Resilience Spotted with hundreds of wetlands, lakes and streams, and home to diverse wildlife and native plants, the Beaver Hills Biosphere is a hub of nature and culture just east of Edmonton. The region was recognized by UNESCO in 2016 as a biodiverse and culturally significant site, and since 2019, the Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve Association works to ensure these invaluable systems continue to flourish. Alberta is home to two of Canada’s 19 biospheres—Waterton Biosphere Reserve and Beaver Hills Biosphere. Fortunately for us, our Resilient Rurals partner communities live right next door to the beautiful Beaver Hills. We sat down with Brian Ilnicki, Executive Director of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, to learn more about the role of a biosphere in bringing nature and people together. “At a high level, a biosphere is a learning place for sustainable development. It gives people an opportunity to explore living and working in harmony with nature, but it's not just about setting aside land or becoming a protected area. The Beaver Hills is a region the community has determined is important. The Beaver Hills Biosphere is the result of people coming together to help provide local solutions to local issues or pursue opportunities in this important region. We focus on conserving and enhancing biodiversity, and we also work to enhance cultural diversity.” Beaver Hills: Where nature, community and industry live in harmony The Beaver Hills Biosphere is a 1600 km2 region east of Edmonton. It covers portions of five rural municipalities—Lamont County, Strathcona County, Leduc County, Beaver County and Camrose County. Among these counties are many small towns and villages, and a variety of industries fairly typical of Central Alberta. Land in the Biosphere has been developed for agricultural crops and livestock, as well as for a variety of oil and gas extraction and transport activities. Land has also been set aside for protection. For example, Elk Island National Park, Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Area and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park serve as centrepieces of the region’s vast ecological network. Land trusts, including Edmonton and Area Land Trust and Nature Conservancy of Canada, are also actively at work tending various conservation properties within the Biosphere. The Role of the Beaver Hills Biosphere Association One of the key functions of a biosphere is to support collaboration. Brian explains that the Association does this by helping to convene key stakeholders around specific environmental or cultural issues, like environmental change, land reclamation or tourism, and to look for opportunities to generate applied research and shared knowledge that can inform decisions that offer local solutions to global challenges. “We do a lot, but we’re also cautious of duplicating the effort of others. That’s a tenant of our organizational ethos—if others are doing work in the Biosphere, we won’t duplicate it, but we will help to make connections in support of that work.” So, for example, although the Association isn’t in the business of securing land, they will assist other organizations to do so. Similarly, if municipal representatives and policy writers need assistance with policy writing, the Association will facilitate integral connections. “Inclusive engagement is one of the Biosphere’s guiding principles. By bringing people together around common issues and having a conversation, we aim to establish a shared knowledge network that works collaboratively to address these issues.” Pastures and rolling hills are characteristic features of the Biosphere How does maintaining and restoring natural ecosystems in the Biosphere support climate adaptation and resilience? Ecosystem services are those seemingly simple processes nature provides that we may or may not take for granted. They include providing clean air, clean water, sequestering carbon, and sheltering wildlife habitat. Brian, together with the Association team, is raising awareness of the value of these services to communities and industry in the Biosphere. “What we’re trying to do is make community members, decision makers and elected officials aware that the region’s natural assets, like wetlands or native stands of spruce or aspen forest, or grasslands, all play a role in supporting their needs.” What climatic changes are happening in the Biosphere? Today, the Biosphere is roughly 2°C warmer than it was 100 years ago, and early trend forecasting predicts temperatures will continue to increase. Scientists studying the area are also forecasting precipitation forms will change—the region may not see as much snowfall for example, but more extreme spring and summer rain events. Wetlands and surface ponds: built-in flood mitigators Maintaining surface water and wetland features within the Biosphere will be critically important for regional climate adaptation. Wetlands not only support biodiversity, but they also play a key role in ground water recharge and reducing flood risks. As precipitation continues to change in the Biosphere, and as more extreme precipitation events occur, well-maintained wetlands will help to reduce flooding and the associated damage to infrastructure. The value of restoring riparian areas for climate mitigation A riparian area is essentially the interface between a natural water body, like a stream, wetland or lake, and dry land. These areas are dense with biodiversity and vegetation that soaks up water like a sponge. The Biosphere is covered in these habitats, and Brian explains communities need riparian areas intact to help minimize climate impacts. The Association is focusing on mapping riparian and wetland areas, identifying losses, and restoring damaged areas. Brian explains it’s important to understand what the natural ecosystems and features are and how they’ve changed over the last 50 years. “Whether it’s been wetland loss or drainage, industrial development, clearing of native habitats that has impacted the landscape…we look at potential ways to restore these systems so they can help mitigate negative climate change impacts.” The Biodiversity Trail in Strathcona County is a landmark destination for those interested in an immersive ecological experience “Committed people working together for a sustainable region, through shared initiatives and collaborative action” - Beaver Hills Biosphere In a region bursting with diverse interests, stories, ecologies, industries and people, the Biosphere applies its collaborative and inclusive approach to identify common threads around various needs and opportunities. Together, with its regional partners, the Biosphere has developed a number of initiatives to address these needs and opportunities to build a more sustainable and resilient region. A handful of ways they are doing so include: providing data for decision-making supporting applied research raising awareness of local Indigenous stories and history identifying opportunities for nature-based tourism Providing Data for Decision-making The Association hosts an internal data sharing portal, which can be used by municipal planners, environmental departments, agricultural fieldmen and conservation coordinators throughout the Biosphere to inform their decisions. The portal’s databases store information about various environmental features of the Biosphere, like the location of surface water or riparian areas. For example, if a developer presents a project proposal to a municipality in the Biosphere, municipal staff can reference the available data as they determine whether or not to approve the proposal or require changes. The Association recently completed a landsat-based inventory of all the surface water in the Biosphere. The inventory offers answers to many common questions municipalities and industry have as they consider development and other opportunities: Where are all the wetlands? Where have wetlands been negatively impacted through drainage? Where are all the surface water features? Where are the native habitat blocks and how do they connect to Elk Island National Park or Miquelon Lake Provincial Park? The Biosphere offers the public a glimpse of some of that data through its online StoryMap that harnesses the power of maps to provide another way to view and understand the complexity of the Beaver Hills landscape and why it is so important. Supporting Applied Research The Association also supports the applied research of a variety of academic institutions with its primary partner being the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus. Much of the research coming from this relationship explores what drives the Biosphere’s environmental cycles. While these studies have an obvious environmental and biodiversity focus, they also incorporate the interests of the community to support long-term sustainability and resilience. Raising Awareness of Local Indigenous Stories and History Another significant piece of the Biosphere’s efforts that can inform decision making and opportunities in the region is the deep and lasting relationships between the landscape and local Indigenous Peoples. “We’re aware that, historically, the Beaver Hills has been very important to and has had a strong First Nations and Métis presence. We are working diligently to ensure that history is acknowledged and Indigenous perspectives are present within the work of the Biosphere” The Association is doing this in several ways. A dedicated team member of the Association is responsible for Indigenous engagement and has been building relationships with people, communities and organizations for the last two years. “We’re working to understand the role we can play to help tell the stories and how we can assist reconnection between Indigenous people and the land.” A series of video vignettes about the Biosphere’s early history have been commissioned by the Association, and these videos are bringing to life the relatively unknown, yet rich Indigenous history of the Beaver Hills. Explore the vignette videos about the Biosphere's history . The Biosphere also offers an Indigenous book club that gives people the opportunity to learn more about and discuss Indigenous ways of knowing and traditional ecological knowledge. Visit the club web page to see what they are reading right now and get involved. Identifying Opportunities for Tourism Municipalities in the Biosphere are highly interested in generating tourism in the area, and Brian explained there’s a big movement by the Alberta Government to support tourism in the region. Currently, his team is working with regional tourism operators and provincial tourism experts to define what their role will be in growing the local tourism industry. “We’re envisioning an all-encompassing, nature-based tourism strategy that would include sport-based tourism, Indigenous-based tourism, as well as promoting local food producers and cultural sites like the Ukrainian Village.” The Association plans to develop tourism support programs to connect experts with vendors. He gives an example, “Someone may run a bird watching company that brings people out to the Biosphere regularly. We’d connect them with others who have similar interests and knowledge to help support their endeavours.” Thank you again to Brian, for offering us insight into the important ecological, cultural and social work underway in the Beaver Hills Biosphere. Keep up with what's happening in the Beaver Hills and find opportunities to get involved on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram Previous Next Introducing Rural Showcase... A dynamic network of resilience leaders are working in and among rural communities across Canada. Resilient Rurals' Rural Showcase highlights the prominent champions channelling their expertise and passion to empower rural communities, advance climate adaptation and enhance the local environment. Connect with local leaders, hear their stories and learn from their expertise.

Resource Hub A one-stop-shop for community members and resilience leaders seeking impactful information. Discover program and policy planning guides for adaptation and resilience, downloadable social media sets and fact sheets, and a directory of organizations and external tools. Adaptation & Resilience Planning Guides Need some extra planning support or inspiration? Sharing ideas, knowledge, and experience is one of the quickest routes to innovation, so with that in mind, here’s what we’ve been up to... View Guides Social Media Toolkit Quick and easily shareable content? We’ve got you covered. Posts for Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and even your community newsletter. Browse Toolkit Information Library Fact sheets about climate change, rural resilience, community wellness, emergency preparedness and safeguarding homes and properties—all in one place! Browse Library External Resource Directory Locate climate data and reports, explore training materials, connect with regional climate service providers, and discover o rganizations revolutionizing the climate landscape with their innovative offerings. Continue to the Directory

Enter to win a waterproof action camera! Photo Contest THE FACES OF RESILIENCE Through the Faces of Resilience Photo Contest, we invite you to share photos of your loved ones - your own faces of resilience. These are the people and animals that inspire you to build resilience and be proactive in preparing for emergencies or hardship. Simply fill out the survey questions and submit your photos. Provide your name and contact information for a chance to win a waterproof action camera! Enter Photo Contest You could win: This WIFI Sports Action Camera will help you capture those exciting moments! It is waterproof up to 30 metres and has a 170 degree super wide-angle lens. A wireless remote control lets you take photos and video while up to 10 metres away. Comes with 19 mounting kits and 2 rechargeable batteries.

Climate Change Prairie Climate Change Projections Learn about the climate trends that we will see across Canada's prairies and what impacts we must be adapting to. Climate Change in Alberta Download Climate Change in the Prairies - Projections for the Edmont Download Prairie Climate Change by Season Download What are the risks of a changing climate? Shifting temperatures and greater weather volatility will continue to impact all aspects of life and livelihood across the country. Climate Change and Wildfires Download Climate Change and Infrastructure Download Climate Change and Biodiversity Risks Download Climate Change and Agriculture Download Climate Change and Flood Risk Download Climate Change and Water Quantity Download Climate Change and Air Quality Download Climate Change and Insurance Download How will climate change impact water quantity for the Industrial Heartland region? Download

Cross-Cultural Collaboration for Food Sovereignty This module was created in partnership with Indigenous guidance through SevGen Consulting. It will cover how Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities can collaborate to progress food sovereignty for all. Next Home Transcription & Notes Coming soon... Cross-Cultural Collaboration for Food Sovereignty Transcription and Slides Transcript PDF Back Next

Home & Property Risk Reduction Flood Guide for Alberta Homeowners Keep Your Home and Property Safe During Extreme Cold and Winter Storms Preparing Your Property for Windstorms Safeguarding Properties from Wildfire Climate-Adaptive Landscaping Native Roots - Drought-Tolerant Native Plant Species for the Alberta Region Native Roots - Flood-Tolerant Native Plant Species for the Alberta Region Growing Drought-Tolerant Gardens with Native Plants Reducing Flood Risk with Native Plants Invasive Plants and Noxious Weeds Guide to Ecoscaping Insurance and Climate Change Home Insurance Guide Insurance and Climate Change in Canada Protect Livestock Livestock and Extreme Heat Additional Resources FireSmart Canada City of Calgary - Climate ready home guide Strathcona County - Ecoscape your yard to reduce water use Featured Resources Safeguarding Your Property from Wildfire Download Native Roots - Drought-Tolerant Plant Species for the Alberta Region Download Preparing Your Property for Windstorms Download

Different Approaches to Regaining Control Over Our Food The module will cover how our health is affected when food becomes insecure, and the influences on food insecurity in Indigenous and rural communities. Finally, it will highlight how small communities can target food insecurity using real-world examples from Alberta. Next Home Transcription & Notes 0:00 Welcome to Module 5: Different Approaches to Regaining Control Over Our Food. In this module, we outline why there is a need to build sovereignty into our food systems, and the ways in which any of us can start this journey. 0:22 100 years ago, it was fairly normal to grow your own backyard garden and source your food from relatively local markets. If something was out of season in your area, you usually had to wait for the growing season to return or make use of preserves. Thanks to globalisation and new growing technologies, this is no longer the case. We now have access to bananas, tomatoes, and bell peppers year-round, as well as produce many of us in Canada may not have heard of such as okra, daikon, bitter melon, and chayote squash. 0:57 Access to a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as affordable meat, eggs, and dairy products, is not a bad thing, but relying on international exports comes with risks. In Module 1, we explored how our food system is vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters. Flood, drought, and other disasters globally can impact whether or not food is even available for international trade. Additionally, war and disease can significantly disrupt trade networks. Further, in Modules 2 and 3, we explored how rural and Indigenous food systems are even more vulnerable due to their distances from urban centres, smaller populations, and lack of services. Localised disruptions, such as washed out roads or multi-day blizzards can dramatically impact the availability and quality of food in these communities. 1:56 Luckily, many individuals and communities are making strides in regaining ownership over their food systems. 2:05 For example, Rural Routes to Climate Solutions is an agriculturally based non-profit that connects farmers to regenerative agriculture solutions (1). Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that aims to improve the land you are working (1). Strategies, such as using cover crops, inter-cropping, and rotational grazing, seek to protect the land from erosion, balance nutrient absorption with nutrient building, and reduce overuse (1). Intercropping, for example, is a strategy whereby several different crops are planted together, which diversifies the nutrients pulled from the soil and contributes to biodiversity (1). This strategy supports carbon sequestration, which results in healthier soil, plants, and pollinators (1). Not only does a farmer’s yield increase, but they contribute to land stewardship and climate mitigation (1). 3:02 Permaculture is similar, although often operates on a smaller scale than regenerative agriculture. It too seeks to work with the natural environment to improve soil health and biodiversity (2). Further, permaculture is a holistic approach to community building that protects against erosion, supports natural water purification, grows food for oneself and community, and limits waste materials (2). It thrives on diversity and a circular economy, whereby materials are used until they can be returned to the earth. 3:39 There are times, however, where the soil we live and work on is not suitable for growing food due to previous land uses or pollution. Urban gardens and container gardening offer a solution to these limitations and can allow for gardening even in small spaces. In Red Deer, the Common Ground Garden Project is an initiative which is repurposing a former Electric, Light & Power site for a community garden (3). This space is interactive, moveable, and educational, and operates as a space of learning, growing, and relationship-building (3). In their recent harvest supper, the Common Ground Garden Project team fed over 160 community members in order to raise awareness of their efforts (3). 4:29 Even small steps can pave the way for food sovereignty. Whether you have a front lawn or a balcony that can be converted for food growing, or you move to support local producers, we can all play a role in strengthening our local food system. 4:44 To learn more about the different ways we can pursue food sovereignty, check out our list of videos: Rural Routes to Climate Solutions - Podcast Verge Permaculture - Mini-Documentary About the Avis Urban Permaculture Homestead Common Ground Garden Project Alberta Urban Garden The Self-Sufficiency Garden GROW: An Indigenous Food Sovereignty Story World Famous Permaculture Property Tour Regenerative Agriculture on a Small Scale Tea Creek Farm - Indigenous Owned and Operated 4:51 You can also check out our references to learn more about food sovereignty and climate adaptation strategies in the food system. Thank you for joining us for Module 5. Different Approaches to Regaining Control Over Our Food Transcription and Slides Transcript PDF References Resilient Rurals. (2022). Rural Routes To Climate Solutions: Why More Farmers Are Taking The Road Less Travelled. https://www.resilientrurals.com/rural-showcase/rural-routes-to-climate-solutions%3A-why-more-farmers-are-taking-the-road-less-travelled. Verge Permaculture. (2023). What is Permaculture? https://vergepermaculture.ca/what-is-permaculture/. Rethink Red Deer. (2024). Common Ground Garden Project. https://rethinkreddeer.ca/commonground. Back Next

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