SASKATOON — The Diefenbaker Canada Centre (DCC) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is currently showcasing Hunt. Gather. Fish. Explore., an original exhibit celebrating Saskatchewan’s legacy of hunting, fishing, sustainable sustenance practices, and outdoor leisure.
Curated by Helanna Gessner, the DCC’s curatorial, collections, and exhibits manager, the exhibit features artefacts from John Diefenbaker’s collection, objects loaned by community members, and interactive components for visitors of all ages. Highlighting Saskatchewan’s unique natural resources, the exhibit explores both Indigenous and settler land practices throughout history.
“Conservation and resource management have been practised by Indigenous peoples in Saskatchewan, who maintained a balanced relationship with the land and its inhabitants,” Gessner writes in her land acknowledgement for the exhibit. “When the first fur traders and settlers arrived, they shared this knowledge with the newcomers.”
“While some settlers used this knowledge and honoured the ways of life that preserved the biodiversity and strength of the land, others driven by greed for the resources and disregard for long-term impacts, disrupted the ecosystem’s delicate balance,” she said.
Throughout the exhibit, visitors will learn about the evolution of conservation efforts and contemporary practices to protect and preserve the province’s natural history. A highlight of the exhibit is the return of the Diefenbaker’s fishing collection housed at the Diefenbaker House Museum in Prince Albert since 1982.
“It’s exciting to bring these items back to the DCC for the first time in over four decades,” Gessner shared. Visitors will be able to view this selection of artefacts as part of the exhibit until April 30, 2025.
The DCC is also offering guided tours to community and school groups, with an educational program that delves deeper into the connection between people and nature and offers students practical knowledge of these Saskatchewan activities.
“Our education program for schools focuses on the importance of conservation while having fun outdoors,” said Dr. Kirsten Falzarano (PhD), DCC’s programs and outreach co-ordinator.
Themed photo booths within the exhibit also add an interactive and family-friendly touch. Visitors are encouraged to submit their photos of outdoor Saskatchewan adventures by submitting them to the DCC for display in the exhibit and social media.
In addition to the funds put into this project by the DCC, this exhibit was made possible with support from two platinum sponsors: the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, and Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Outdoor Fund. These groups’ support for wildlife and habitat conservation is crucial in ensuring the continued enjoyment of delicate ecosystems.
“This exhibit is a great way for newcomers to Saskatchewan to learn about the province’s outdoor activities and for long-time residents to celebrate the activities they participate in,” said Gessner.
Hunt. Gather. Fish. Explore., can be visited noon to 4:30 pm Wednesday to Saturday.
