Our bi-annual business meetings are opportunities for representatives from our member municipalities, invited guests and our partner organizations to share conservation and stewardship success stories and challenges. The meetings are also a chance to network and partner with other SAM communities on your next Stewardship project! Attendance is highly encouraged.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and following feedback from our members, we have decided to hold the Fall meeting virtually this year. While we are disappointed to be unable to proceed in person, the safety and comfort of our attendees is our top priority. We thank the Town of Deer Lake for volunteering to host this year, and circumstances permitting hope to see you all in person in the spring. 

SAM Meeting Background

You may not yet have become aware of THE STEWARDSHIP ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES INC, otherwise affectionately known as “SAM”. SAM is an incorporated non-profit organization (1994) comprised of NL municipalities interested in wildlife habitat conservation.

SAM is part of the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (EHJV) whose mission is to conserve landscapes in Eastern Canada to sustain bird populations while providing ecological, social and economic benefits to society.

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Your town became involved with SAM upon the signing of a Municipal Habitat Stewardship Agreement with the province. This agreement, as a tangible public step taken by your council, serves to proactively conserve habitat for wildlife, often wetlands for waterfowl and other birds, found within your municipal planning boundaries. Since taking that initial step many towns have become involved in restoring and enhancing wildlife habitat while educating and engaging residents in sustainable land use actions. Since 1989, 42 municipalities in NL have signed such agreements and incorporated them into their municipal planning documents and development regulations.

Who can attend a SAM meeting?

Invitations are emailed to SAM communities with an online registration form. Town councils appoint a representative to attend the meetings and they can be either:

A) A member of council

B) A member of staff or

C) A member of a council committee or interested town resident.

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