All Our Relations: Youth Nature Discovery Day

Saturday, August 29, 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Drop-off & Registration: 9:45 AM – 10:00 AM

Ages: 12–20 years

Registration Required | Limited to 30 Participants

Join the River Valley Alliance’s Indigenous Committee for a day of outdoor exploration, Indigenous teachings, and hands-on learning in the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Designed specifically for youth ages 12 and up, this unique drop-off event brings together Elders, Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, and local experts to explore the incredible diversity of life in the river valley. Through guided walks, interactive presentations, and engaging activities, participants will connect with the land while learning from Elders, Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, and local experts about the plants, animals, fungi, and ecosystems that make the North Saskatchewan River Valley unique.

The day will begin with a traditional opening prayer and smudge led by Elder Lance, followed by a series of guided “walk-and-talk” learning experiences.

What You’ll Discover

🍄 Mushrooms & Fungi

Join renowned mycologist Martin Osis (Martin the Mushroom Man) to discover the fascinating world of fungi. Learn about the important role mushrooms play in healthy ecosystems, how to safely observe them in nature, and the diversity of fungi found throughout Alberta’s forests.

🦉 Birds & Their Habitats

Explore the river valley with experts from the Wild Bird General Store as you learn to identify local bird species, understand the habitats they depend on, and discover why the North Saskatchewan River Valley is such an important place for wildlife.

🐝 Bugs, Bees & Pollinators

Discover the hidden world beneath our feet and all around us with a representative from the University of Alberta. Learn about insects, native bees, pollinators, and earthworms, and the important roles they play in healthy ecosystems.

🌿 The Seven Sacred Teachings

The Seven Sacred Teachings through stories, discussion, and reflection. Participants will explore how these teachings can guide the way we care for ourselves, one another, the land, and all living things.

Lunch Included

A boxed lunch from Tee Pee Treats is included with registration.

Each boxed lunch includes:

• A bannock sandwich (choice of Chicken, Turkey, or Roast Beef)
• Your choice of salad
• A Wildberry or Saskatoon cake

Gluten-free and dairy-free options are available. Please indicate any dietary restrictions or food allergies during registration.

Important Information

• This is a drop-off event for youth ages 12–18. (Parents and guardians are welcome to stay throughout the event; however, activities and discussions are designed for registered youth participants. Please note that boxed lunches are only provided for registered youth, so parents or guardians who choose to remain should plan accordingly.)
• Drop-off and registration take place between 9:45 AM and 10:00 AM.
• The event begins promptly at 10:00 AM and concludes at 2:00 PM.
• Please complete the Parent/Guardian Information & Permission Form below. This information is required for all participants under 18 years of age and includes emergency contact information, medical information, allergies and dietary restrictions, photo consent, and authorization for pickup or independent departure at the end of the event.
• Parents/guardians may indicate on the permission form whether their youth will be picked up at 2:00 PM or has permission to leave independently at the conclusion of the event.
• Participants should dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven trails, and bring a reusable water bottle.

Cancellation Policy

Registration is limited to 30 youth participants to ensure a safe and engaging experience for everyone.

If your youth can no longer attend, please cancel your registration as soon as possible. Providing as much notice as possible allows us to offer the available space to another young person who would otherwise miss this opportunity.

We look forward to welcoming youth for a day of discovery, learning, and connection to the land as they explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of the North Saskatchewan River Valley.