Redberry Lake Biosphere Region

Saskatchewan’s Hidden Ecological Gem

The Redberry Lake Biosphere Region (RLBR) is in a category all of its own. Its importance is recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which granted designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Region in 2000. Despite the UNESCO designation, it remains one of Saskatchewan’s best kept secrets.

Unique in Saskatchewan

The RLBR is one of 19 UNESCO biospheres in Canada, and the only one located in Saskatchewan. The world network of UNESCO biosphere reserves covers 700 regions in over 120 countries. “Every designated biosphere region worldwide has a core area with some level of protected status,” John Kindrachuk, RLBR Executive Director, said. “Most of those in Canada are part of a national park. Ours is somewhat unique in that Redberry Lake has protection as a Federal Bird Sanctuary.”

Conservation and commercial use in balance

The UNESCO designation covers the Redberry Lake watershed, which is over 110,000 hectares and touches seven Saskatchewan municipalities. The area sees a symbiotic relationship between conservation and commerce. While the lake has protected status, rural communities and farms dot the area. A regional park bustles with activity in the summer. The landscape is a mix of cultivated and grazed land with patches of natural prairie and aspen forest.

Redberry Lake Biosphere Region - Credit: Redberry Lake Biosphere Region

A distinctive saline lake with a vibrant range of colors

Redberry Lake reaches a depth of 75 feet, which is unusual for a saline lake. The water reflects vibrant shades of turquoise and blue, due to the magnesium sulphate composition. The extended area around the lake is a nesting and feeding spot for migratory birds, including endangered whooping cranes. Over 200 bird species have been spotted in the area.

A sanctuary for bird enthusiasts

The region is a popular destination for birding enthusiasts, some of whom make annual pilgrimages to enjoy rare sightings and capture photographs of species such as whooping cranes, American white pelicans, piping plovers, and more. Islands within Redberry Lake support nesting colonies for pelicans, California and ring-billed gulls, common terns, white-winged scoters, double-crested cormorants, great blue herons, and black-crowned night herons.

Sustainable nature adventures

Infrastructure improvements have aided the creation of new programming and visitor experiences. These new developments and activities aim for a minimal environmental footprint and be least disruptive to the land, forest, plants, animals and even the night sky.

With its own bird banding station, RLBR offers guests a variety of packages. They range from half-day tours that include working with a bird banding specialist to overnight and multi-day excursions that involve nighttime activities.

One of the exciting new experiences at RLBR is an evening adventure that immerses visitors in the natural wonders of the region. Start with the Guided Bird Tour along the ridge overlooking Redberry Lake, where you can spot a variety of bird species against the stunning prairie backdrop. Afterward, enjoy the Sunset Supper featuring a locally sourced BBQ cookout that highlights the flavours of the region. The evening culminates with A Night with Owls. Here guests meet Saskatchewan’s smallest nocturnal owl, the Northern Saw-whet Owl, with guidance from a bird specialist. This unique blend of conservation and tourism captures the essence of the RLBR experience.

Northern Saw-whet Owl - Credit: Redberry Lake Biosphere Region

Eco-friendly accommodations through local collaborations

A new interpretive centre is designed as a multi-purpose facility, ideal for meetings, retreats, indoor programming and classroom learning. Sustainable, on-site guest accommodations include geodesic domes that sleep up to six people.

RLBR Interpretive Centre - Credit: Redberry Lake Biosphere Region

The RLBR has the potential to become a notable destination in Saskatchewan, offering visitors unique and immersive experiences. The interpretive centre and birding tours serve as cornerstone attractions. Beyond these highlights, collaborative efforts with local community members aim to expand tourism opportunities, allowing guests to engage with an authentic rural lifestyle. The region aspires to demonstrate the coexistence of people and nature, showcasing how conservation and sustainable development can work together as a driving force for building stronger, more resilient communities.

For further information, visit www.redberrylake.ca and www.tourismsaskatchewan.com.