Spring 2011

SEARCHING FOR ARCTIC EDEN
Explore Canada’s High Arctic with adventurer Jerry Kobalenko

In his presentation on April 27, Kobalenko will share his love of ice caps and glaciers, fossil forests, and the flora and fauna at the top of the world, from endangered Peary caribou to herds of thousands of arctic hare. He'll recount close encounters with polar bears, explore the meaning of adventure and our connection to the North, and give a traveller’s insights into infamous Arctic tragedies and controversies. And he’ll introduce us to the subtleties of a misunderstood Eden.

A frequent traveller to Canada’s national parks, Kobalenko is based in Canmore, Alta., on the edge of Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park. To mark the centennial of the creation of Canada’s national parks service, The Royal Canadian Geographical Society is pleased to welcome Jerry Kobalenko, a Fellow of the Society and intrepid explorer of Canada’s national parks, to talk about his experiences in the High Arctic, including Canada’s northernmost national park, Quttinirpaaq, on Ellesmere Island.

Kobalenko’s most recent book, Arctic Eden, features stories and photographs from this remote corner of Canada. He will be available for book signing after his presentation. Copies of Arctic Eden will be for sale, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Society’s educational programs.