About the Chinook Institute
Mission
The mission of the Chinook Institute for Community Stewardship is to advance education about the sustainable use and management of Western Canada’s natural landscapes, including the ecological and cultural values of these lands.
A Short History
In the fall of 2001, in response to a growing Canadian interest in innovative, community-driven solutions to an ever-expanding range of land-use issues, the Sonoran Institute, based in Tucson, Arizona, helped establish a Canadian presence to adapt and apply its pioneering methods, tools, and resources to a more northerly conservation context.
Through 2002, The Chinook Institute, operating as the Canadian office of the Sonoran Institute, worked simultaneously to bring a community-based approach to land-use planning and management in Western Canada, and to build the infrastructure necessary to support and sustain a successful non-profit organization. In April, 2003, The Chinook Institute for Community Stewardship incorporated as an Alberta Society, and in July, 2004 registered as a Canadian charitable organization.
Board of Directors and Staff
Board of Directors
| Chairperson: | Michael McLaughlin, Keremeos, BC |
| Vice-Chairperson: | Mike Quinn, Calgary, AB |
| Secretary & Treasurer: | Felicity Edwards, Canmore, AB |
| Director: | Mike Gibeau, Canmore, AB |
Staff
| Executive Director: | Carole Stark |
| Program Associate: | Julia Lynx |
Funders
Alberta Conservation Association
Alberta Ecotrust Foundation
Alberta Real Estate Foundation
Calgary Foundation
Centre for Sustainability
Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia
Vancouver Foundation
Wilburforce Foundation
Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative