A Legacy of Hope: Alison’s Conservation Journey with CPAWS 

CPAWS News & Stories

November 11, 2025

FOR ALISON WOODLEY, conservation isn’t just a job. It’s a life’s calling. After two decades of dedication to CPAWS, Alison’s journey is marked by an unwavering passion for nature, a deep belief in the power of community, and a commitment to transformative, lasting conservation work. 

Growing up near a protected area outside Montreal, Alison’s earliest memories are of wandering woodlands, birdwatching with her parents, and learning the importance of the natural world. After studying forestry, she worked with forward-thinking conservationists at Parks Canada in Fundy National Park. Witnessing the power of National Parks in protecting the environment, she pursued a master’s degree in Parks and Protected Areas and travelled north to conduct her research. 

When the opportunity to join CPAWS came along, it felt like fate. “I had always admired the organization’s work,” she reflects. “After having kids, I wanted to return to conservation, where my heart lies. The role focusing on Northern issues and National Parks was a perfect fit. I was over the moon.” 

“Conservation is a team sport. It would be impossible to achieve what we’ve achieved without all my colleagues. Without you, the organization doesn’t thrive, and our work can’t be done.” 

Alison credits CPAWS’ unique structure, focus, and bold vision—protecting half of Canada’s land and water—as key to its success. Its network of local chapters drives change from the ground up, supported by national policy and advocacy. Once seen as unrealistic, CPAWS’s evidence-based vision is now echoing globally. 

Throughout her career, Alison’s deep respect for nature has always been paired with a belief in the power of community. “Conservation is a team sport,” she says, emphasizing the importance of relationships at every level. From colleagues at CPAWS to Indigenous communities, provincial or territorial governments, and the dedicated donors and supporters across the country, the work is never done alone. It’s these connections that have sustained her through every challenge. 

“The most transformational and positive shift over the course of my career in conservation has been the recognition and support of Indigenous leadership.” 

Indigenous Peoples’ efforts to protect ecologically and culturally significant lands are reshaping the future in Canada. Their knowledge is irreplaceable, and their role is critical in guiding the field forward. 

One of her proudest moments was the expansion of Nahanni National Park Reserve in the Northwest Territories. After almost a decade of advocacy and collaboration with Dehcho First Nations, the park’s expansion was celebrated in a fire-feeding ceremony in Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ (Fort Simpson.) “It was a true honor to witness that moment. It showed how much we can achieve when we persist and bring both our hearts and heads into this work.” 

Alison has been instrumental in securing historic federal investments for conservation. A turning point came during her work with the Green Budget Coalition, when she learned governments were spending $25 million to extend a highway by less than a kilometer—the same amount she had been advocating for to protect species at risk. The absurdity of asking for so little to save nature hit hard and sparked a bold new strategy. The next year, with Alison’s leadership, CPAWS and the Coalition pushed for more than a billion dollars for conservation. Thinking big proved successful and when the funding was secured, Alison got goosebumps. In 2018, the federal government allocated $1.3 billion, marking a defining victory. Soon after, Alison received a personal letter from the Prime Minister thanking her for her advocacy on environmental issues. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of believing in the impossible. 

“It was the honour of a lifetime to work for CPAWS for so long.” 

After over 20 years with CPAWS, she leaves a legacy of persistence, vision, and heart. She hopes her journey will inspire future conservationists to stay focused on ambitious long-term goals, no matter the obstacles. She encourages the CPAWS community to keep moving forward with optimism, to build strong partnerships, and to never lose hope in the face of adversity. 

As Alison looks toward the future, she feels both optimism and urgency. “The federal government has pledged to protect 30% of land and ocean by 2030, but funding runs out this year and must be urgently renewed. Investing in nature is investing in Canada’s well-being and economy. The future is bright, and it’s in our hands to shape.” 

“Hope is a powerful tool, and I’m an optimist. I believe, with persistence and focus, we can achieve our big vision.” 

Words from Alison’s colleagues

Alison has been a cornerstone of CPAWS for 20 years, always able to step back and see the broader vision, a gift that has propelled wilderness conservation forward in Canada. Her pivotal role in securing federal commitments to new protected areas in 2015 set the foundation for the many successes CPAWS has celebrated in the past decade. Alison’s leadership is defined by her creative problem-solving—she never gets stuck by barriers but finds ways to work around them, always with a calm, constructive approach that commands deep respect. A memorable moment was her staff connection day in Gatineau Park, where she not only shared her love for nature but also brought the team closer together with fun, nature-filled activities. Alison’s commitment to conservation is reflected in her personal life too, as she and her husband have raised two passionate, nature-loving daughters.  

– Eric Hebert-Daly, former Executive Director, CPAWS. 

Alison speaks with a rare honesty that bridges the gap between elected officials and the public, offering reliable, nuanced insights that help everyone envision a better future for nature. In her advocacy and leadership, Alison’s patience stands out—whether briefing an opposition MP or offering candid advice on complex issues, her perspectives are invaluable. Alison’s legacy will be one of advocating for nature with intelligence, integrity, and passion—qualities that have inspired and will continue to inspire countless others. 

– Megan Leslie, President and CEO, WWF Canada.