As an avid hiker until my knees gave out, I have always loved Alberta landscapes, but I didn’t really think about their future; it seemed obvious that people would want to cherish them. Working at a Calgary newspaper, I followed the environmental reporters’ stories, but it all seemed a bit academic. That was until I was asked to write a story on development in K-Country and given explicit instructions not to interview environmentalists or the provincial opposition.

I had two equal reactions:

1. I’m not here to write propaganda for the publisher’s cronies;
2. Dismay and outrage at the cavalier way our environment was being treated.

As a very delayed and a very small restitution, it occurred to me that I could take up the AWA challenge and write 60 letters to politicians. I have two amazing grandchildren and I would die feeling very sad knowing our wild spaces aren’t there for them as they have been for me. And, it would be even worse if I had done nothing about it. It gives me great joy to see the Grands spotting birds and flowers, and hiking enthusiastically – even if it’s all about lunch!

I hope to deliver some stinging jabs. For example, asking the Premier to explain why coal mines are aesthetically more pleasing than wind turbines. I’m sharpening my metaphorical pen because there are so many things that need our attention. For personal satisfaction, I shall also resume my practice of jotting down all the different wild flowers I see this spring and summer.

Good luck to everyone with their 60 projects. May the AWA come out all the stronger in 2026.