: This fonds contains the personal records of an extended family, including photographs, correspondence, and diaries. It documents their interests, careers, and family life predominantly two generations – the Ratcliffes and McConnells. The first accrual documents the interests, careers and family of John and Doreen McConnell and their daughter, Mary Ann. It includes materials related to McConnell’s work in communications, his work for the Canadian and Saskatchewan governments, together with materials relating to his interest in the environment and social and international development issues. It also includes materials relating to his wife, Doreen, who predeceased him. The second accrual adds the records of Doreen’s parents, the Ratcliffes, which includes documents related to their personal life and interests, Elma’s travel, James’ World War I service, and family life.

Documents in the fonds relate to the National Research Council - International Biological Program Natural Area Survey - Conservation Terrestrial Saskatchewan Region. Most regions of Canada had an IBP Committee working toward the establishment of a Natural Area system. The Sask. provincial program started in 1968. Fieldwork began in 1969 with 95 areas were selected for the inventory.

This fonds contains a history of the Soils department written in 1942, lecture notes, and speeches and addresses given by Professor Mitchell between 1932-1955.