Our History
In 1927, the need for a united provincial voice for Saskatchewan's anglers and hunters to help protect our unparalleled natural resources was conceived. Through the initiative of three individuals, Mr. Judge Bence and Mr. Tom Coburn from North Battleford and Mr. Stan Naden from Regina, the humble beginning of our Federation was formed in 1929 as the "Saskatchewan Fish & Game Protective Association."
On February 1, 1932 at a meeting of the organization, the name was changed to the Saskatchewan Fish & Game League", and by 1934 boasted 14 branches with 839 members who paid a membership fee of 25 cents.
Due to the League's expanding its scope and activities, the name was changed in 1966 to "The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation" and finally was registered as a non-profit organization in 1982 as "Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation."
In 1968, the Federation adopted the Whooping Crane as our official emblem. The Whooping Crane was not only a species that was clawing its way back from the brink of extinction, but also symbolized man's acknowledgement of our responsibility as stewards of our natural resources and the dedicated commitment to restore and enhance wild things and places for future generations to enjoy.
The "whooper" population dropped as low as 14 - 16 birds in the 1940's and through painstaking efforts they now number over 400, a shining example of how conservation and determination can truly make a difference.
The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation now proudly boasts over 30,000 members in 122 branches throughout our province, and per capita, is the largest wildlife conservation organization of its kind in the world. |
