The Bragg Creek Environmental Coalition (BCEC) has officially launched the Old Growth Project, an exciting new community initiative aimed at identifying and protecting old-growth forest groves in and around Bragg Creek.
These trees over 150 years old—are the elders of our forests. They serve as vital genetic reservoirs for regeneration, provide essential habitat for wildlife such as black bears, martens, squirrels, and countless bird species, and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
This project builds on BCEC’s ongoing commitment to conservation and education. (To learn more about why protecting old-growth refugia matters, read our earlier article Why Protect Old Growth Refugia in Alberta.)
Engaging Bragg Creek’s Youth as Citizen Scientists
Phase One of the Old Growth Project began in early October in partnership with teacher Chris Ellard and students at Banded Peak School (Grades 1–8). The students participated in a presentation followed by outdoor field experience in the adjacent Bragg Creek Provincial Park.
Students, teachers and parent volunteers, practiced identifying and measuring tree circumferences of four native tree species in an old growth grove. These experiences offered a meaningful blend of science, connection to nature and action.
From Learning to Action
Banded Peak Families are now invited to participate by measuring and photographing large trees in their own yards or nearby forests and submitting their findings to Banded Peak’s Google classroom created by Mr Ellard. These data that will contribute to BCEC’s growing map of Old Growth Refugia with a 15km radius of the Hamlet of Bragg Creek.
Every participant will receive a token of appreciation, and special prizes (donated by area retailers) will be awarded for the largest trees of each species.
To symbolize the cycle of renewal, in the spring of 2026, Banded Peak School students will plant seedlings creating a future forest.
What’s Next: Mapping the Groves
Later in October, the young Citizen Scientists will gather again for a Follow-Up Assembly to share their findings and celebrate their findings. Student-collected data will be mapped by a S.A.I.T. intern using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, creating a living record to inform conservation and advocacy efforts.
Watch for Phase two of the project in January 2026. Data collection and reporting will be opened to the Bragg Creek and surrounding Communities including Redwood Meadows and 762 in November.
Through this project, BCEC hopes to inspire a deeper connection between Bragg Creek’s residents—especially its youth—and the forests that we live with.
Together, we can ensure that these old-growth trees remain part of our landscape and regenerate forests for future generations.
Get Involved
If you’d like to participate or learn more about submitting tree data, please visit our homepage or follow us on social media for upcoming updates.