THE ORIGINS FOUNDATION X Alberta Professional Outfitters Society
Location: Alberta, Canada
The Alberta Professional Outfitters Society (APOS) plays a central role in stewarding wildlife, supporting rural communities, and ensuring that regulated hunting continues to deliver meaningful conservation outcomes across the province. Through science‑driven decision‑making, strong governance, and deep community investment, APOS demonstrates what responsible outfitting can look like when it is rooted in transparency and long‑term sustainability.
Alberta’s outfitters were some of the earliest pioneers of the tourism industry in our province, with the first guided hunts taking clients into the Alberta wilderness in the late 1800s. Today our society represents 500 professional outfitters and nearly 1,600 hunting guides, generating a $327 million contribution to Alberta’s gross domestic product, and supporting rural jobs and economies throughout the province.
In 1997, the Alberta Professional Outfitters Society (APOS) was established as a delegated administrative organization (DAO) for the Government of Alberta. APOS’ delegated responsibilities include licensing the province’s guides and professional outfitters, managing the distribution of big game allocations and waterfowl privileges, and holding members accountable to a Code of Ethics. We provide members with access to liability insurance, a voice within government, and advocacy on key issues.
To learn more about the Alberta Professional Outfitters Society, visit below:
Science‑Driven Wildlife Stewardship
APOS invests heavily in research and evidence‑based management. From major contributions to mule deer science and urban coyote studies to innovative projects like grizzly bear hazing with drones and feral horse research, APOS ensures that wildlife decisions are grounded in the best available knowledge. Alberta’s regulated hunting system, supported by license revenue that flows directly into conservation, remains a cornerstone of this work.
Protecting Wildlife and Habitat
APOS is a trusted voice at provincial wildlife advisory tables, helping shape regulations and management plans that balance ecological needs with public values. The organization also supports habitat enhancement projects across Alberta, including waterfowl nesting structures, antelope‑friendly fencing, prescribed burns, and grassland restoration.
Transparent, Ethical, and Accountable
APOS operates under a strong governance framework, including an elected Board of Directors, the Carver model of policy governance, and a robust Code of Ethics. Conservation funds are publicly reported, audited, and overseen by multi‑stakeholder committees. Mandatory membership, bonding, and insurance requirements ensure high professional standards across the industry.
Strengthening People and Livelihoods
With more than 550 outfitters and 1,600 licensed guides, APOS supports thousands of families across rural Alberta by championing its members and wildlife. The organization invests in education through scholarships, school educational programs, and partnerships with post‑secondary institutions. Many member outfitters also contribute to food programs and community initiatives, including donations to First Nations communities.
Investing in Rural Communities
APOS’s Community Investment Fund provides $100,000 annually to local projects administered by outfitters in their own communities. These funds support everything from rodeo grounds and 4H clubs to youth sports teams in small rural communities, Indigenous food banks, and predator management programs that help ranching families.
Ethos
“Our diverse geography allows you to hunt 10 big game species and an astounding array of bird game across a broad range of habitats. From vast open prairies in the south, to the aspen parkland of central Alberta, the stunning Rocky Mountains to the west, and the boreal forest in the north – you’ll love the diversity of our landscape. Come and experience the hunt of a lifetime in Alberta, Canada!”