Upcoming Webinar: Bat Area Use
On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Chuck Priestley (STRIX Ecological Consulting) will share initial findings from bat acoustic monitoring at West Fraser facilities in Alberta, including potential measures to reduce risks to bats, and the future directions of this work.
When:
Tuesday, October 20, 2026; 12:00–1:00 pm MDT
What to Expect:
Lunch & Learn Program: Quick Refresher
Presentation from Chuck Priestley (STRIX Ecological Consulting)
Live, interactive Q&A session
About our Presenter:
Chuck Priestley is a Professional Biologist with more than 25 years of experience in wildlife research, monitoring, conservation, and environmental consulting across western Canada. He has co-owned and operated STRIX Ecological Consulting since 2005, where he develops and manages wildlife research and monitoring programs for industry, government, and conservation organizations. His work has included longterm wildlife monitoring, sensitive species research, habitat-use studies, environmental impact assessments, pre-disturbance wildlife surveys, and biodiversity programs. Chuck holds an M.Sc. from the University of Alberta and a B.Sc. in Environmental and Conservation Sciences with a major in Conservation Biology (University of Alberta). He currently serves as a Director with Wild Sheep Foundation Alberta and the Alberta Conservation Association, where he chairs the Grants Committee. Outside of work, Chuck enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Abstract:
Bats help regulate insect populations, pollinate flowers, and disperse seeds, making them an important part of ecosystems. Nine bat species occur in Alberta, including species considered sensitive or endangered. West Fraser staff have observed bats around facilities in Alberta, raising questions about how bats use these areas and whether operations could pose risks to them. Because bats are nocturnal and use ultrasonic echolocation to navigate and find food, their activity can be difficult to observe. Beginning in 2024, STRIX Ecological Consulting and West Fraser’s environment team conducted acoustic monitoring to better understand bat use at the Blue Ridge Lumber and Ranger Board facilities. This session will share initial findings, potential measures to reduce risks to bats while allowing operations to continue, and the future directions of this work.
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