Student Poster Presentation Session

The Alberta Chapter of the Canadian Land Reclamation Association (CLRA) is pleased to sponsor a student poster session at 2025 CLRA National and Alberta Conference and AGM Meetings.

Call for Posters:

The CLRA Student Poster Committee invites submission of abstracts for posters that outline creative and innovative student submissions in the fields of environmental science or studies related to the CLRA Vision and Mission statements and the conference broad theme of Canadian Reclamation – Growing since 1975. Posters will provide participants with a forum to present and discuss their posters while meeting participants at the CLRA conference.

This poster session is a value-added feature with a prominent focus on student participation at the CLRA conference. All student posters are welcomed as a vital contribution to the conference program. All accepted submissions will be highlighted throughout the conference and featured in a student poster area.

Student Poster Session Objectives:

1. Engage conference attendees interested in your environmental science studies, program, project experiences and/or research.
2. Advocate for the CLRA Vision and Mission statements.
3. Receive constructive feedback to expand your educational journey and/or enhance your research work.
4. Network with potential collaborators, advisors and prospective employers.

Poster Content Requirements:

Submissions must include a poster title, author(s) information and any affiliations. The title should briefly convey an interest in the issue and/or education program. Posters should include the following sections:

• Introduction – Information about post-secondary institution and educational program
• Project or research Intro/Background
• Methods
• Results
• Discussion
• Conclusion
• References and Acknowledgements
• Contact Information

Poster questions, considerations and/or content:

• Why did you decide to pursue a career as an environmental specialist
• What was the most important thing learned/learned during your program?
• What are the long-term goals in the environmental field
• What has been your most rewarding experience so far?
• Why is the job of an environmental specialist important?
• How are innovation and creativity incorporated into your studies? What does this mean for you
• What does the future of environmental work look like? (e.g. Artificial intelligence, social aspect, Indigenous relations/knowledge)
• How do you help protect the environment through your studies, research and/or work
• Incorporation of essential environmental terms, relevant laws and regulations designed to protect the environment.
• What does “environment” mean to you, and what message are you trying to convey?

Poster Format Specifications and Design:

Please reference the following webpage for format specifications, templates and recommendations.

Judging

Judges will assess posters based on the following equally weighted criteria.

1. Relevance to CLRA Mandate and Content: Clarity, depth of discussion, and alignment with the CLRA mission and program perspectives.
2. Excellence through Program of Study: Demonstrated understanding of reclamation/remediation, applicability, and future potential.
3. Abstract and Content Quality: Coherence, logical flow, grammar, spelling, and overall poster appearance.
4. Demonstrated Student Understanding: Awareness of program and research context; welcoming and engaging.
5. Special Merit: Innovative and novel approaches or research projects.

Note: The poster must stand on its own merit and not require additional verbal explanation. Posters will be judged with students present (attendance mandatory) by three judges during appointed times at the conference. Presenters will have four minutes for presentation and one minute for questions (timelines may vary at the judges’ discretion).

Awards:

Two winning presenters will each receive $1,000, to be awarded during the conference closing session. Winners will also have opportunities to:

• Engage in discussions with prospective employers and industry leaders.
• Participate in resume reviews, mentoring, and personal development sessions.
• Receive guidance on certifications and skills to accelerate career growth.

To be considered for the competition, submit your abstract via this link by February 1, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered. Selected posters will be confirmed by February 5, 2025.

Poster session winners will be announced during the conference closing session, where awards will be presented by a CLRA board member or designate, and photographs will be taken.