After over 30 years in wildlife advocacy and management, Dale Gienow sees the significance of continuing the education on wildlife, especially in the city. Now the executive director of nonprofit organization WILDNorth, Gienow welcomes people to the Edmonton Wildlife Festival for a celebration of Edmonton’s wild neighbours.
After a two-year hiatus, this free family-friendly festival returns with education booths, wildlife themed crafts, a magic show, play area for kids and live music. For those who want to see how the organization helps local wildlife, you can meet the safely trained animal education ambassadors at the festival: Corby the raven and Yarrow the squirrel.
WILDNorth responds to over 800 wildlife rescue requests a year, with over 3,000 patients treated. While WILDNorth also provides education programs to schools, Gienow hopes the Wildlife Festival will raise more awareness in the community.
“It’s a great education opportunity for everyone in the city, for how much space we share with the wildlife,” says Dale Gienow. “Wildlife education is not just about learning to recognize creatures, but also help us learn how to live in harmony with them.”
Embrace the fresh air in Queen Mary Park at Edmonton Wildlife Festival on August 21. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the 23rd annual fundraiser Edmonton WildRun.
