Club History | Club History |
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 Founding member Mike Person & wife Linda The Alberta Falconry Association (AFA) was formed in 1965, but encountered a number of stumbling blocks. In 1978 the Alberta Raptor Association (ARA) was formed that recognized members' broader interest in birds of prey rather than falconry per se. However, ARA continued to lobby for legalized falconry. The Government of Alberta approved regulations permitting falconry in November 1981. In July 1982 the Alberta Falconry Association registered as a society. In August of that year AFA held its inaugural meeting and soon had 21 members. Falconry progressed slowly in the 1980's because harvest of wild raptors was not permitted (even injured birds from rehabilitation facilities were not available to falconers) and captive bred falcons were extremely expensive. In 1987, the Wildlife Act was amended and allowed a limited harvest of wild raptors. Injured birds also became available to AFA members. AFA membership has increased to approximately 35 members, of which, 25 actively participate in falconry. Club Objectives
The Association is governed by a Board of Directors and Officers elected from among the regular membership. The Board of Directors consists of President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. At the AGM a minimum of 3 and maximum of 7 directors will be elected and will serve for one year. The highlight of the year for AFA members is the annual field meet. This informal gathering is held in early October. Members attend from all over the province and we often host guests from other provinces and countries. |
