This discussion is based on a July 2006 story that appears in Alberta Views magazine. In the article I posed "10 big questions" for environmentalists, and anybody who cares about Alberta, and Canada, to consider. I don't believe I have all the answers, so I'm making space here for others to contribute, comment, and generally participate.

From the Alberta Views article: We’re losing and we know it. We’re losing what so many love about Alberta – its wild places, wildlife, and the clean air and clear waters that define this province.

Alberta’s environmental community has often been all that stands between ecological ruin and many of the province’s corporate and government decision makers. But despite the heroic efforts of a few handfuls of volunteers and staff, Alberta continues to tumble into ecological decay. And while Alberta’s beleaguered environmental community can count on many Canadians to help protect the province’s air, land, water, and wildlife, our community must first find the means to reinvigorate itself, reorganize, re-prioritize, and then get down to work. Only after we’ve done this will can we call ourselves a true movement.

Before moving to Victoria, BC in 2005 I was part of that community for nearly fourteen years. I’m proud of the work that Alberta’s conservation community has accomplished, but I’m also aware that if we’re going to do more than just hold the fort in our effort to protect the web of life on earth, we’ve got to question our own effectiveness as leaders in civil society. To that end, I offer up these questions in the hopes of spurring a sea change that will turn the tide in Alberta, and across Canada.

You can comment on this general hypothesis, or discuss one or more of the 10 big queistons.