Regina Natural History Society
The Regina Natural History Society (RNHS), operating as Nature Regina, is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in 1933. It is the oldest natural history society in Saskatchewan, formed during the Great Depression to promote the study of natural sciences and wildlife conservation[1][5].

History

Founded on 16 January 1933 in Regina, the society emerged during severe drought and economic hardship, driven by concerns over ecological degradation and biodiversity loss. Initial meetings at the Normal School included lectures on bird identification and astronomy, with a membership fee of 25 cents annually[1][5]. Charter members included Fred Bard, later director of the Royal Saskatchewan Museum[1]. By its first year, it had 72 members, growing to approximately 250 active members by its 90th anniversary in 2023[5].

Activities

The society hosts monthly educational lectures, field trips, and conservation projects. Key initiatives include:

• Hidden Valley Ecological Sanctuary: Acquired in 1954, a 320-acre protected area in the Qu’Appelle River Valley[5].
• Royal Saskatchewan Museum collaboration: Maintains native prairie gardens and supports wildlife monitoring[5][4].
• Youth programs: Introduced outdoor education initiatives for children, emphasizing hands-on nature engagement[5].

Legacy

RNHS advocates for biodiversity preservation in Regina’s urban and rural ecosystems, including Wascana Park and backyard habitats[5]. It provides grants for conservation research and food sovereignty projects, reflecting its dual focus on education and environmental stewardship[5].

(Business Registration Number: 890002264RR0001)

[1] https://www.natureregina.ca/history [2] https://www.natureregina.ca/90th-anniversary-stories-nature-in-trust-update [3] https://my.charitableimpact.com/charities/regina-natural-history-society [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Saskatchewan_Museum [5] https://leaderpost.com/news/local-news/nature-regina-celebrating-milestone-90-years-as-society