1:45 am - January 17, 2026
Alberta is making history as the first North American member of the prestigious International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC). The announcement comes as Todd Loewen, Alberta’s Minister of Forestry and Parks, embarks on a diplomatic journey to Qatar. There, he will attend the 71st General Assembly of the CIC to officially secure Alberta’s membership, further cementing the province’s growing influence in the global wildlife conservation and hunting sectors.
Alberta’s Growing Role in Wildlife Conservation
Loewen’s participation in the CIC assembly is a significant moment for Alberta, a province renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife. Alberta has long been recognized as a premier destination for hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures, attracting nature enthusiasts from around the world. The province’s entry into the CIC marks a new chapter in its commitment to sustainable wildlife management and conservation.
By becoming a member, Alberta aims to enhance its efforts in preserving wildlife habitats while ensuring that hunting remains a regulated and responsible activity. Loewen emphasized that joining the CIC provides an opportunity to showcase the province’s conservation work and to learn from other global leaders in wildlife management.
“Alberta is world-famous for hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventure,” Loewen said. “Joining this international group shows the strong conservation work happening here and opens new doors to share what we’re doing – and learn from others, too.”
Minister Loewen’s Efforts to Boost Alberta’s Outfitting Industry
During his trip to Doha, Loewen will also focus on promoting Alberta’s outfitting industry to an international audience. Alberta’s outfitting sector plays a critical role in the provincial economy, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. By connecting with global partners, Loewen hopes to attract more international hunters, which will further boost tourism and local economies.
The minister’s trip to Qatar aligns with the Alberta government’s ongoing efforts to market the province as a top hunting destination. The international exposure gained through CIC membership will provide Alberta with a platform to share its hunting regulations, wildlife management practices, and conservation efforts with a global audience. This is expected to foster increased interest in Alberta’s world-class hunting opportunities.
Loewen’s participation in the CIC conference will allow him to engage with other wildlife experts, government officials, and conservation organizations. This exchange of knowledge will help Alberta refine its own strategies for wildlife conservation and ensure the sustainable management of its natural resources.
Expanding Alberta’s Global Conservation Network
Loewen’s visit to Qatar is part of a broader effort to increase Alberta’s international presence. After the CIC conference in Doha, Loewen plans to travel to the United Kingdom, where he will meet with experts on human-wildlife conflicts. The goal of this visit is to discuss best practices for managing the growing challenges posed by human-wildlife interactions. These discussions will play a crucial role in developing Alberta’s approach to balancing wildlife conservation with human development.
Promoting Alberta’s hunting opportunities in Europe is also on Loewen’s agenda. The province’s unique landscapes and diverse wildlife species make it an attractive destination for European hunters, and Loewen’s outreach aims to strengthen those international ties. By cultivating these relationships, Alberta hopes to further cement its reputation as a leading destination for hunting and outdoor recreation.
A Global Focus on Conservation and Sustainable Practices
The International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation is dedicated to supporting the sustainable use of natural resources and the conservation of wildlife around the globe. With its new membership, Alberta joins a network of countries and regions that are committed to managing wildlife populations responsibly and ethically. As part of the CIC, Alberta will have access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise on managing both game and non-game species, which will enhance its own conservation initiatives.
In addition to its wildlife conservation efforts, Alberta is also focused on enhancing its tourism sector. The province’s vast wilderness areas and diverse ecosystems are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting. The Alberta government sees the expansion of its conservation efforts as a way to promote tourism while maintaining the province’s rich biodiversity.
Looking Ahead: Alberta’s Future in Global Conservation
As Alberta continues to grow its role in global conservation, Loewen’s participation in the CIC is just one of many steps in strengthening the province’s international reputation. By aligning itself with the CIC’s mission and participating in high-level discussions on wildlife management, Alberta is poised to play a pivotal role in the global effort to protect and conserve wildlife for future generations.
Alberta’s position as a leader in wildlife conservation is becoming increasingly recognized, and Loewen’s diplomatic efforts are a testament to the province’s commitment to preserving its natural resources while promoting responsible outdoor recreation.