Alberta Wildlife Federation welcomes continued investment in grizzly bear population monitoring

EDMONTON, AB, July 23, 2026 - The Alberta Wildlife Federation (AWF) welcomes the Government of Alberta's continued investment in grizzly bear population monitoring across the province, recognizing that sound wildlife management must be guided by current scientific data.

Monitoring supports science-based management

The ongoing monitoring projects, including population surveys, will provide valuable information about the health, distribution, and abundance of Alberta's grizzly bear population. The federation says the work is an important step in evaluating the success of Alberta's Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan and ensuring future management decisions are informed by the best available science.

In April 2026, the AWF responded to a Rural Municipalities of Alberta resolution calling for a managed, limited grizzly bear hunting season. At that time, the federation stated that any consideration of a future harvest must be supported by robust scientific evidence demonstrating a healthy and sustainable population.

“The Alberta Wildlife Federation has consistently advocated for science-based wildlife management,” said Paul Short, president of the Alberta Wildlife Federation. “These monitoring projects will provide the information needed to assess the status of Alberta's grizzly bear population and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing recovery efforts. The data collected will help ensure future management decisions are responsible, transparent, and sustainable.”

Balancing conservation and public safety

The AWF recognizes grizzly bears as an iconic part of Alberta's natural heritage while acknowledging the growing need to address human-bear interactions as populations recover in some regions. We believe effective wildlife management must balance conservation objectives, public safety, and the interests of Albertans who live and work on the landscape.

The federation also continues to support educational programs that help reduce human-wildlife conflict, as well as Alberta's problem wildlife response program, recognizing both as important components of a comprehensive grizzly bear management strategy.

Looking ahead

The Alberta Wildlife Federation looks forward to reviewing the results of the ongoing monitoring work and continuing to work collaboratively with the government of Alberta and conservation partners to ensure Alberta's grizzly bear population remains healthy for generations to come.

For media inquiries:

Maureen Ezeodumegwu, Marketing Communications Manager

Email: communications@albertawildlifefederation.ca

Phone: (780) 437-2342