SRD Stories

On January 31, 20102, a resident of Buck Creek, Alberta, was convicted in Drayton Valley Provincial Court of unlawfully killing a male sub-adult (two-year old) grizzly bear on September 10, 2010.

Alberta designated grizzly bear as a Threatened species in 2010, and there is not an open hunting season in Alberta.

The defence argued that the bear posed a danger because of its proximity to children and residences in the area. The argument was rejected by the court, and he was convicted by Provincial Court Judge H.W. Fuller under Alberta’s Wildlife Act.

The defendent was ordered to pay a fine of $7,500, of which $7,000 will be directed to be used for enforcement forensic DNA research and development. The defendant was also prohibited from possessing an Alberta hunting licence for a period of three years.

At this time of year, black bears are single-minded in their pursuit of food as they prepare for winter, only stopping when snow falls and temperatures drop.

This can lead to human-bear conflicts for those living and working in bear habitat, especially if people do not take the proper precautions to store and dispose of attractants. Proper storage of food, compost and even attractants such as chainsaw oil and other petroleum products is of utmost importance.

Sustainable Resource Development staff have reported greater than usual movement of bears searching for food. This increases the risk of human-bear conflicts in communities and work camps.

Public safety is our number-one concern. In human-bear conflicts, our officers assess the situation and may take preventative action, such as bear bangers and rubber bullets or relocation when feasible. In some cases, the public safety risk is too high and bears must, unfortunately, be euthanized.

In the past month, our officers have responded to an excessive number of human-bear conflicts in the cities of Cold Lake and Fort McMurray, and in work camps in northeast Alberta. In some cases, the bears were food-habituated, did not respond to our officer’s presence or preventative actions, and created too high a risk to the safety of the public, resulting in euthanization. Many of these conflicts could have been avoided.

Sustainable Resource Development has best-management strategies for work camps in bear habitat at bearsmart.alberta.ca. Strategies include:

• education components, such as teaching employees about proper use of bear spray;
• proper storage of attractants, such as food and petroleum products; and
• correct installation and use of electric fencing.

The best way to deal with human-bear conflicts is to prevent them in the first place.

Our officers will continue to discuss with stakeholders, including companies operating work camps, about the best strategies to reduce human-bear conflicts. However, our officers cannot be everywhere all the time. Everyone living, working and visiting bear habitat must play their role in protecting themselves, their community and the bears.

To learn more about how to reduce human-bear conflicts, see:

• Alberta BearSmart

If a bear is posing an immediate public risk, phone Report A Poacher, toll-free 24-hours a day, at 1-800-642-3800.

Walleye were fished out of Lake Wabamun over 100 years ago and did not re-establish. Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) would like to restore the walleye population in Lake Wabamun.

The proposal is to transfer fish from Lac Ste. Anne and Lake Isle into Lake Wabamun over a six-year period. Consultation with various stakeholders indicates considerable support for this project. TransAlta is also assisting with the project as part of their work to reclaim the Wabamun plant site.

In summer 2010, Sustainable Resource Development plans to move 500 mature walleye from Lac Ste. Anne and Lake Isle to Lake Wabamun. In the second year, walleye eggs from Lac Ste. Anne would be sent to the Cold Lake Fish Hatchery, and a portion of those fry would also be returned to Lac Ste. Anne to increase the walleye population.

Restoration work will re-establish a fishery larger than Lac Ste. Anne and Lake Isle combined. This will reduce fishing pressure on these overfished lakes while providing an additional fishery to Albertans.

Fishing in Lac Ste. Anne and Lake Isle will not change. Over the six years, adult walleye will be transferred from Lake Isle and Lac Ste. Anne, and the number of walleye transferred will not affect these fisheries (less than 0.5 per cent of the population will be transferred). Secondly, in years two through six (pending resources), we will be taking eggs and milt from spawning walleye. The fertilized eggs will be reared in a hatchery with a portion going to Lake Wabamun, and the remainder returned to the donor water body. As the hatchery can increase the survival of the eggs, there will be no loss to the donor water bodies.

Currently, Lac Ste. Anne and Lake Isle have no harvest for walleye (catch and release only) due to population status. All walleye must be released; however, regulations will be adjusted as numbers increase.

• View more photos on Flickr

Source: Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Fish and Wildlife Division

Alberta has established an independent committee to review the group of wildfires that struck the Slave Lake area in May 2011.

The committee will review the conditions and behaviour of the wildfires known as the Flat Top Complex, assess the province’s firefighting response and deliver its report to government before the end of 2011.

The committee is chaired by Bill Sweeney, former Senior Deputy Commissioner (retired) of the RCMP. Other members are Dr. Bonita McFarlane of Natural Resources Canada, former British Columbia Forest Protection Program Director (retired) Peter Fuglem and Municipal District of Greenview councillor Tom Burton.

The Flat Top Complex was one of the most destructive in Canadian history. More than 400 homes and other structures were burned or destroyed, residents of Slave Lake and surrounding communities were evacuated, nearly 22,000 hectares of forested land was burned and various industries were impacted.

Please see below for information about the Flat Top Complex Wildfire Review Committee - Terms of Reference, Timelines and Committee Members:

Terms of reference

The committee will:

• Review Sustainable Resource Development’s wildfire management program and budget, relevant policies and legislation.
• Assess information on the wildfire conditions and behaviour for the Flat Top Complex, and the encroachment of wildfire into nearby communities.
• Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Sustainable Resource Development’s wildfire operations for the Flat Top Complex.
• Assess Sustainable Resource Development’s response to the Chisholm Fire Review Committee Final Report dated October 2001.
• Make recommendations to the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development on how the department can improve its wildfire management program.
• Engage with Alberta government staff, external experts and relevant stakeholders in completing its review.
• Make recommendations consistent with the committee’s Terms of Reference.

Timelines

• The committee will provide its report, with recommendations, to the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development by the end of 2011.
• Sustainable Resource Development will response to the committee’s recommendations.

Committee Members

The committee is a group of independent, external members consisting of:

• Chairman Bill Sweeney, Senior Deputy Commissioner (retired) RCMP. Mr. Sweeney joined the RCMP in 1974 in Alberta and retired after more than 35 years of service. His diverse positions took him to various locations in Canada and included operations, investigations, emergency response, inspections and analytical responsibilities. He has also served in a variety of executive positions with numerous provincial and national professional associations, committees and boards.
• Bonita McFarlane, PhD. Dr. McFarlane is the Leader of Fire Social Science Research at National Resource Canada’s Canadian Forest Service office in Edmonton and adjunct professor in two departments at the University of Alberta. She is an associate editor for two international peer-reviewed journals, and is a member of the Board of Directors of Partners and Protection.
• Peter Fuglem, M.Sc., RPF (B.C.). Mr. Fuglem recently retired from a career of nearly 40 years in forestry, including more than 30 years in wildfire management. As Director of the Forest Protection Program in British Columbia, he was involved in the 2003 Filmon Firestorm review and implementation of recommendations. Mr Fuglem was co-lead on the development of the Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy.
• Tom Burton, Councillor, Municipal District of Greenview. Mr. Burton was first elected to council in 2001. He was elected Director of District 4 of the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties in 2008. A registered Emergency Medical Responder since 2001, his experience also includes serving as Chief of the DeBolt Fire and Rescue organization, President of Partners in Protection, and member of the provincial Forest Protection Advisory Committee and other forestry related committees.

The Government of Alberta invites the province to recognize National Forest Week as it celebrates Canada’s Forests!

In February, the United Nations officially declared 2011 as International Year of Forests. National Forest Week continues the ongoing promotion of this global event. The United Nation’s theme of “Forests for People” provided our province with something extra to celebrate during Alberta Forest Week earlier this year. The overarching theme reminds us of how closely forests and people are interconnected.

Canada’s forests provide an abundance of economic benefits and are the largest geographical feature of the country. Our forest scenery is filled with recreational parks, ecological reserves and a variety of flora and fauna. It offers a diversity of landscapes for hikers, nature enthusiasts, hunters, scientists and many other groups.

So where can you celebrate our forests? Wherever you live!

Here are some celebration ideas:

• You can go on a nature walk.
• You can learn more about our forest heritage and then share that knowledge with friends and family.
• You can spread the word about the benefits of forests through your social media avenues like Facebook and Twitter.
• You can find out more about the forest activities going on in our province at:
  • srd.alberta.ca

Did you know that this year marks the 100 year anniversary of the creation of forest reserves and parks in Alberta? Did you know that roughly 82 million trees are planted in Alberta each year? Did you know that four trees are regenerated for each tree harvested in our province?

Take this opportunity to recognize the countless benefits that our forests provide. Learn more about our valuable natural resource and become involved in stewardship. Celebrate and connect with our forests!

A fresh Spring day – soft walking trails, scurrying squirrels, the scent of new greenery, flowing rivers that lead to lakes as blue as the open skies… now that’s something to celebrate!

Take the time during Alberta Forest Week to relax, explore, have fun and enjoy the beauty of our province’s forests. Whether you choose to go bird-watching, hiking, paddling, or even if you’re seeking peace and solitude, Alberta’s forests offer a diversity of landscapes for your outdoor passion.

Our amazing natural resources are part of our provincial identity. Use this opportunity to consider the many benefits provided to Albertans by our trees and forests and their connections to our lands, fish and wildlife.

This year, we have the opportunity to celebrate forests with the global community. 2011 has been declared the International Year of Forests. The goal is to raise awareness of the integral role forests play in the livelihoods of people worldwide.

The Government of Alberta is staging Alberta Forest Week activities in a number of communities across the province from May 1 to May 7. Activities around the province include tree planting, barbecues and pancake breakfasts as well as games, giveaways and fire prevention demonstrations.

The Alberta Government will also continue its tradition of recognizing a provincial Arbour Day and will distribute tree seedlings to participating Grade One classrooms.

More information

Alberta Forest Week

International Year of Forests

The United Nations General Assembly kicked off a year-long celebration to raise awareness of the vital role forests play in the livelihoods for people worldwide. The main theme of International Year of Forests is "Forests for People", which brings into focus the central role of people in the sustainable management, conservation and sustainable development of the world’s forests.

The UN is aiming to promote observance of International Year of Forests not as an isolated event, but as part of a continuing process of stewardship that encourages greater awareness and action towards sustainable forest management at all levels. In his address to the General Assembly, the Secretary-General called for people to build on the event so that present and future generations continue to benefit from the rich diversity of forests.

Here in our province, the Alberta Government works to promote those same stewardship values. Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) is committed to the conservation, stewardship, and sustainable development of Alberta’s renewable natural resources.

This year, SRD is teaming up with Alberta Environment to invite all Albertans to celebrate and connect with International Year of Forests. The event will be promoted in two of the province’s special weeks.

Alberta Forest Week, May 1-7, 2011 is a celebration of everything our forests have to offer us. Consider that forests provide habitat to many animals and plants; vital oxygen for our planet; places to go camping, walking and hiking; and provide jobs and materials that fuel our economy. Take the opportunity to make a personal connection with the forests that surround you.

Environment Week, June 5-11, 2011 is an opportunity to celebrate and take action to connect, protect and conserve our natural world. This year make a commitment to do something that will decrease your environmental footprint, celebrate with your community or participate in ways that make your community more sustainable.

In addition to these annual events, Albertans are encouraged to be on the lookout for other forestry related events and activities in your area that take place throughout the year.

Did you know…?

• This coming April marks the 100 Year Anniversary of the Forest Reserves and Parks Act of 1911. The Act added significant lands to existing forest reserves into Alberta and also defined expansion of the national parks.
• Alberta’s forest companies are required by law to reforest what they harvest.
• The Robert Bateman Get to Know Program has been inspiring connections between children and nature in the outdoors for over a decade.
• Arbour Day has been celebrated since 1884 and continues to inspire values of stewardship and conservation.

So take a walk in a local wooded area, enjoy the surroundings, learn more about forest activities happening around Alberta and discover the province’s forest heritage. Celebrate forests with the international community!

As the fall and winter months approach, wildfire remains a threat to Alberta’s forested areas. Although the hot and dry conditions of the summer months have passed, a wildfire can still ignite. If you live in or near a forested area, the best way to help protect your home and property is by using the principles in the FireSmart program.

There are several proactive FireSmart measures you can take around your property in the fall to decrease your fire hazard next year. Even small steps and commitments can greatly reduce your risk of loss, damage or injury to a wildfire.

Start by keeping your lawn mowed and watered. Flames from a wildfire can distribute burning embers for several kilometres, which can quickly ignite cured grass. Also take time to clear away branches, leaves and other burnable material from your roof to prevent a stray ember from starting your home on fire.

"Simple steps like moving wood piles away from buildings will help significantly reduce the risk," said Driscoll.

Start with small changes around your home this fall and plan to take on larger FireSmart tasks in the future. Thinning trees, installing spark arrestors on your chimney and replacing exterior siding with less flammable materials like stucco, metal or brick will offer the highest form of protection from an advancing wildfire.

Driscoll noted the best protection against the threat of wildfires is prevention.

"About half of the wildfires Alberta records are sparked as a result of human activity," said Driscoll. "These wildfires are 100 per cent preventable."

Even during the winter months, it’s extremely important to take precautions when using fire. Always keep a watchful eye on any active burning, only burn when winds are calm and completely extinguish the fire before leaving the site.

A fire that is not completely extinguished can burn down into the organic layer of soil and smoulder for long periods. These holdover fires often resurface in the spring when the fire hazard is high.

Proper fire safety starts before you start burning. Clear away any excess soil and dirt from the burn site. Lighting the fire on a solid surface will reduce the risk of starting a smouldering holdover fire.

When finished burning, properly extinguish the fire by soaking the fire with water, stirring the ashes, and soaking it again. When the fire appears to be out, probe the area for any hidden hot spots.

"If you can feel any heat emanating from the ashes, then the fire is not completely out," said Driscoll.

By following safe burning practices year round, you can significantly reduce your risk of starting a devastating wildfire.

To order a FireSmart homeowners manual or to learn more about the FireSmart program, visit:

• FireSmart

The 60 hectare West Castle prescribed fire took place over the weekend as the weather conditions were favourable. The operation was south of the Castle Mountain Ski Resort on the east side of the West Castle river valley. Among other benefits, the prescribed fire created a fire break that will protect nearby homes and infrastructure from the threat of an uncontrollable wildfire.

The forested area surrounding the prescribed fire was closed during operations to ensure public safety. The general area of the closure stretched between West Castle River and Barnaby Ridge, between the two points where the gravel road south of Highway 774 crosses the river.

Updates on the status of the burning operations will be available by calling:

• 1-866-916-INFO(4636).

For additional information on prescribed fires in Alberta, visit:

• Prescribed Fires

The newly unveiled Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail gives a first hand glimpse of forest regeneration. The trail invites visitors to explore the effects of wildfire on plants and wildlife in a forest ecosystem. This interpretive trail was developed within the boundary of the recently completed 5,727 hectare Upper North Saskatchewan Prescribed Fire.

• Fire Facts: Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail
• Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail Brochure

The trail located on the north side of Highway 11, approximately 10 kilometres east of the Banff National Park boundary and 170 kilometres west of Rocky Mountain House.

Visitors have two options to venture through the fire trail:

• the short loop - an easy 400 metre walk
• the long loop - a slightly more challenging two kilometre walk with some hills

Interpretive signs along the trail provide visitors with information on forest succession, wildlife in the area and the important role fire plays in creating healthy and resilient forests.

Fire has sculpted the forest and mountain landscape for thousands of years, creating a number of plant communities of different ages and species. By excluding fire over the last century, the forest ecosystem is left with an abundance of evenly-aged coniferous forest with little biological diversity. This imbalance has increased the threat of uncontrollable wildfires and major insect outbreaks (like the mountain pine beetle).

Under the R11 Forest Management Plan, government agencies are teaming up to re-introduce fire on the landscape in a controlled manner. By working together with local businesses, industry, environmental groups, First Nations, municipal governments, adjacent land managers and recreation groups, several prescribed fires are now planned in the forests west of Rocky Mountain House.

Learn more about the controlled applications of fires in Alberta at:

• Precribed Fires

Source: Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Forestry Division

The Government of Alberta encourages you to celebrate National Forest Week. The theme for National Forest Week is Canada’s Forests – Branching Out, which is demonstrated in Alberta by the province’s requirements for reforestation and sustainable forest management.

National Forest Week is a challenge to individuals to learn more about their forest heritage and to promote the greater recognition of our valuable natural resource. So spend some time in our forests and enjoy the many pleasures Alberta’s forests have to offer!

You can also participate by learning more about the forest activities going on in the province:

• Discover how Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) maintains forest values – such as clean water, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities and the growth of strong, resilient forests.
• Learn how trees lost to Mountain Pine Beetle are being replaced.
  • ReLeaf Program
• Discover how prescribed fires can help reduce the size and intensity of future wildfires.
  • Prescribed Fires
• Learn about harvesting and reforestation practices within Alberta.
  • Forest Harvest Operations
• Find out how Alberta’s health program monitors key biological, physiological, and environmental factors to help maintain forest health.
  • Forest Pests
• Learn about the prevention of forest fires in our province.
  • Preventing & Fighting Wildfire

Take this opportunity to consider the countless benefits that our forests provide. Rediscover and connect with the beauty that surrounds us. Get involved in conservation and stewardship - branch out!

National Forest Week events near you

Location	Date	Events and Activities
Peace River	September 23, 2010	What’s happening? Alberta Sustainable Resource Development if offering free evening tours at the Normand Boucher Arboretum. A free cup of hot chocolate and snacks will be provided during the 30-minute tour. Where? Normand Boucher Arboretum When? 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. More Information Normand Boucher Arboretum Tours
Rocky Mountain House	September 17, 2010	What’s happening? Alberta Sustainable Resource Development is pleased to announce the opening of the Landslide Lake Fire Ecology Trail in time for National Forest Week. Where? The trail is located on the north side of Highway 11, approximately 10 kilometres east of the Banff National Park boundary and 170 kilometres west of Rocky Mountain House. More Information Fire Facts: Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail Brochure
Upper Hay Area	September 20 to 24, 2010	What’s happening? The Upper Hay Area is celebrating National Forest Week with Arboretum Tours for the local schools. The tours are planned all week for Grades 3 and up. The students will learn more about species diversity, sustainability and the re-invention of the forest industry.

Related Information

Alberta Junior Forest Rangers
Canadian Forestry Association: National Forest Week
Canadian Forest Service
Forest Health
Forest History Association of Alberta
Land-Use Framework
Mountain Pine Beetle In Alberta
Recreation on Public Land

Posted: September 16, 2010

Two Alberta firefighters sit waiting to load a helicopter for fire fighting duties in B.C.

One-hundred-and-fifty-five firefighters from Alberta are joining the 38 firefighters Alberta has already sent to British Columbia to help battle a number of wildfires burning in that province.

First-year firefighter Carleen Born is part of the Alberta contingent headed across the border.

The firefighters will work in B.C. for up to three weeks, but can be called back to Alberta sooner if the wildfire situation here changes.

This exchange of firefighting resources is made possible through resource-sharing agreements Alberta has in place with jurisdictions across North America. Alberta is an active participant in these agreements and has benefitted in the past from the assistance received from other firefighting agencies. Earlier this year Alberta dispatched firefighting resources to Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan and the Yukon.

Source: Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Forestry Division

Alberta Sustainable Resource Development has approved the Forest Management Plan for the C5 area of southwest Alberta, near Crowsnest Pass.

"The C5 plan incorporates a tremendous amount of hard work, community input and sound science, and Im pleased to see it put into practice," SRD Minister Mel Knight said.

Approval follows stakeholder input, public consultation and scientific review of potential resource development impacts in the region.

The new C5 Forest Management Plan:

• updates the initial plan developed in 1986, and
• was prepared with input from stakeholders and residents.

The new plan meets the Canadian Standards Associations internationally accepted standards for sustainable forest management:

• Public consultation
• Conservation of biological diversity
• Forest ecosystem condition and function
• Conservation of soil and water resources
• Forest ecosystem contribution to global ecological cycles
• Multiple benefits of forests to society
• Accepting societys responsibility for sustainable development

The C5 forest management plan applies timber harvesting as a tool to support forest health in a region dominated by large, connected stands of over-mature trees at risk to catastrophic wildfire and insect attack.

Deferring harvest in these areas exposes the rest of the regions forest to threat of large-scale beetle infestations.

Objectives of the C5 forest management plan include:

• Managing the timber resources for sustainability while minimizing the impacts of forestry operations on non-timber resource values, land uses and human activities
• Ensuring that all forest industry practices are conducted in a manner that places priority on the protection of water resources
• Addressing the forest health issues associated with the threat of mountain pine beetle

The plan also supports Albertas Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan – access management will reflect priority areas for bears and replace, reclaim and manage for reduced traffic. Access management uses science-based road density thresholds, which guide setting of priority areas as recommended in the Recovery Plan.

The plan was developed from 2002-06 but final approval was deferred in 2007 pending completion of the Oldman Watershed Councils State of the Watershed Report. That report was released in March 2010 and ranks the health of the C5 watershed as "good."

"Review of the State of the Watershed Report confirmed that the C5 Forest Management Plan will protect the regions core natural values while promoting sustainable forest management in southwest Alberta," Minister Mel Knight said.

The new C5 forest management plan sets aside streamside buffers (based on Alberta Timber Harvest Planning and Operating Ground Rules, and the Alberta Forest Management Planning Standard).

Road and crossing development has the largest potential for impacts on water quality and was addressed under ground rules. Additional precautions were taken by deferring harvest in a number of upper headwaters areas to allow for prolonged "green up."

The C5 Area of Southwest Alberta

C5 is a multiple-use zone that has seen commercial activity for more than a century, including timber harvesting, oil and gas development and cattle grazing.

C5 covers 351,823 hectares – an area six times the size of the City of Edmonton – from the northern boundary of Waterton Lakes National Park to Pekisko Creek in southern Kananaskis Country

Timber harvesting is limited to one-third of C5 and occurs each year on less than one per cent of the 114,000 hectares available for commercial forestry.

The C5 area is in the Land-use Frameworks South Saskatchewan regional area.

Government continues to make day-to-day decisions about the appropriate use of public land in the C5 area while the South Saskatchewan region plan is being developed under the Land-use Framework. These decisions are consistent with existing management plans, such as the Castle River Sub-regional Integrated Resource Plan.

Once completed, the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan may require changes to the C5 Forest Management Plan.

• C5 Forest Management Plan
• Map: FMU C5 Timber Harvesting Landbase(1 page)

Grass fires are a dangerous reality for many people living on Albertas prairies. Travelling at speeds in excess of 10 kilometres per hour, these fast-burning wildfires can quickly threaten homes, property and livestock.

To reduce the risk of large uncontrollable wildfire, Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) carries out hazard reduction burning to remove the dangerous build up of dry grass that is prominent around many communities in the early spring.

Warm dry weather this spring allowed experienced fire managers with SRD to successfully complete many hazard reduction burns in central and northern Alberta. Nearly 800 hectares of dry grass were burned off in March.

Wildfire plays an important role in maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems. Prescribed fire recycles nutrients, helps plants reproduce, and encourages a wide variety of new habitat for several animals in the area. Applying fire in a controlled manner helps maintain that healthy balance while protecting the safety of nearby developments.

There are several new prescribed fires planned for Alberta this year, which vary in size from a few hectares to over 1,000 hectares.

Related information

For prescribed fire and forest management practices in Alberta, visit:

• Preventing & Fighting Wildfire
• Prescribed Fires

Source: Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Forestry Division

Alberta is sending 22 highly trained Type 1 firefighters to help battle wildfires burning in Quebec. The deployment of these firefighters is in addition to the five aircraft recently sent to aid firefighting efforts in Ontario.

The exchange of firefighting personnel and equipment is made possible through resource-sharing agreements Alberta has in place with firefighting agencies across North America. Alberta is an active participant in these agreements and has sent firefighters and equipment to other parts of the Canada in past fire seasons.

Recent rain and cooler temperatures throughout Alberta have reduced the wildfire hazard to the point where these firefighters can be sent to work in other parts of the country. Albertas fire hazard is continually monitored, and a sufficient number of firefighters are on hand to quickly respond to any new wildfires detected in the Forest Protection Area. These exported firefighters can be recalled very quickly, should the wildfire situation in Alberta change unexpectedly.

Alberta currently has seven active wildfires, all of which have been contained. Since April 1, 2010 Alberta has recorded 694 wildfires, which is 30 per cent more wildfires than would normally be recorded at this point in the fire season.

Related information

For more wildfire information across the province, visit:

• Wildfire Status
• Fire Danger Forecasts

Source: Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Forestry Division

Buffalo Lake, located about 40 kilometres northeast of Red Deer, is unique. It’s a managed water body where water levels are maintained within a specified range to minimize water level fluctuations. A strip of public land surrounds the lake so that Alberta Environment can undertake water stabilization work.

More visitors, lake residents and developers are discovering the many recreational opportunities at Buffalo Lake, placing pressure on the sensitive shorelands within the strip of public land. There is now a plan to ensure lake users tread lightly on Buffalo Lake’s shorelands.

The Buffalo Lake Integrated Shoreland Management Plan will maintain biodiversity and help safeguard shorelands within the strip of public land surrounding the lake. The plan puts aside some shorelands for recreation while other shorelands will be undisturbed. Landowners, residents, lake users, municipalities and other stakeholders will then have certainty on what activities can and cannot occur on the public land and within the first 100 metres of the lake.

The plan was developed through the cooperation of:

• Alberta Environment
• Alberta Sustainable Resource Development
• Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation
• Buffalo Lake Inter-municipal Development Plan Steering Committee
• Buffalo Lake Management Team
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada

For more information and to view the plan, visit:

• Buffalo Lake Management Team

More Information

To request a DVD about the health of Buffalo Lake’s shoreline and an accompanying brochure, contact:

Sustainable Resource Development Red Deer Office
First Red Deer Place
#404, 4911-51 Street
Red Deer, AB T4N 6V4
403-340-5451

When we say harmful species, we mean invasive species that are not native to Alberta and threaten Alberta’s ecosystems and biodiversity. You’ve likely come across invasive species walking or hiking, gardening, boating or fishing. While a pretty, white plant like oxeye daisy seems innocent, it actually invades pastures and natural areas, which can reduce hay production and affect the taste of milk from dairy cattle. Even a goldfish can create problems if released into a water body or down a storm drain or toilet.

Government, business and industry, stewardship groups and the public all have a role to play in controlling invasive species. A perfect example of the cooperative action everyone can take on invasive species was the garlic mustard weed pull on June 11 at Mill Creek Ravine organized by the City of Edmonton and Edmonton Naturalization Group (ENG).

Garlic mustard escapes from gardens and invades natural habitats, making it a weed that must be controlled under Alberta’s Weed Control Act.

"Garlic mustard is a prohibited weed, and we don’t want it spreading in our ravines," said Chris Saunders of the City of Edmonton’s parks department.

"We’re working to nip garlic mustard the bud," said Diana Baragar of the Edmonton Naturalization Group.

A couple days later, Mel Knight, Minister of Sustainable Resource Development, visited the weed pull site with Alberta government staff to pick the remaining garlic mustard plants. Jim Hole of Hole’s Greenhouse and Gardens and representatives from the City of Edmonton, ENG and the Alberta Invasive Plants Council also attended.

• View event photos

Pulling invasive weeds is only one example of simple things Albertans can do to prevent the spread of invasive species. Albertans can also:

• Clean vegetation and soil off agricultural, recreational (off-highway vehicles, boats, gear), construction and industrial equipment. Wash and dry them before moving to another area.
• Never transfer live fish from one water body to another and do not release aquarium fish or plants into water bodies, storm drains or down the toilet.
• Learn about invasive plants before going to gardening stores.
• Avoid buying packets of wildflower seeds as they often contain invasive plant seeds. Use local seed mixes or buy packets of individual flowers.
• Use Certified #1 seed and request a seed certificate analysis from the supplier or grower to ensure the seed is weed-free.

• More tips for controlling invasive species
• Learn more about invasive species

If you are looking for online geographic information about Alberta’s watersheds administrative boundaries, utilities, highways, mineral agreements and parks and protected areas, look no further than the GeoDiscover Alberta portal.

All sectors—government, industry, land managers, researchers, non-government groups, consultants and professional bodies—need geospatial data and services to make informed decisions. GeoDiscover Alberta brings together more than 150 layers of geospatial data and services from various government departments and agencies so that Albertans can search and find the credible, up-to-date information they need. The information and services are shared via the portal, which means users don’t have to search in multiple places for information.

This is just the beginning for GeoDiscover Alberta. As more ministries and agencies join GeoDiscover Alberta, more information and tools will become available.

In the meantime, we are looking for your feedback on the portal. Please try it out and take the short survey to help us make this portal even better.

• GeoDiscover Alberta

In 2002, members of the Convention on Biological Diversity agreed to achieve a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010. This year is the International Year for Biological Diversity, and countries are reporting on progress toward the 2010 target and what further efforts are needed.

Canada’s biodiversity reports are posted on a new site featuring the results of all federal/territorial/provincial biodiversity projects. Visit:

• biodivcanada.ca

Alberta’s Actions on Biodiversity

Alberta is taking action to reduce biodiversity loss in various categories outlined by the Convention on Biological Diversity:

• Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI)

  The Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI) provides credible, independent information for sound decision-making to achieve sustainable management of the environment.

  The institute collects data and reports on thousands of species, habitats and human footprint activities at 1,656 sites across the province. From the data it collects, the institute prepares reports to establish baselines for the status or health of biodiversity in regions.

  The Alberta government will provide $3.2 million in funding for the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute’s work in 2010-11.

•  Alberta Invasive Alien Species Management Framework

  The Alberta Invasive Alien Species Management Framework aims to coordinate invasive species management across jurisdictions.

  A key component of the framework is an online risk assessment tool that evaluates an invasive species’ likelihood to establish and spread and its possible effects. Results provide focus for appropriate management options.

• Alberta North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) Partnership

  Various government departments and non-government organizations are managing Alberta’s waterfowl and wetland habitats through a broad mix of directed, science-based conservation activities.

• Land-use Framework

  The Land-use Framework addresses the cumulative impacts of multiple industrial developments on the province’s ecosystems. Regional plans facilitated by the Alberta Land Stewardship Act will create new conservation and stewardship tools to protect heritage landscapes.

• Species at Risk

  Alberta’s Species at Risk program is built on science and collaboration with stakeholders. Management decisions are based on detailed status assessments and advice from a multi-stakeholder committee.

  Alberta also develops realistic and viable recovery strategies in consultation with species experts, wildlife and land managers, researchers and stakeholders.

  Sixteen species are designated as Endangered and 13 are considered Threatened in Alberta and assessment is ongoing under the Species at Risk program.

  • Success Stories
    
    The swift fox was once considered to have disappeared (extirpated) from Alberta, but a reintroduction program in the southern prairies has helped to re-establish their presence. Although still considered an Endangered species, they are on the path to becoming a population that is self-sustaining.
    
    The population level for peregrine falcon reached a low of five birds, but after a successful reintroduction program, Alberta now hosts 68 nesting pairs and a population that is exhibiting concrete signs of recovery. This recovery resulted in improving the peregrine falcon’s status from Endangered to Threatened.

• Water for Life-Healthy Aquatic Ecosystems

  The Water for Life strategy outlines commitments to manage and safeguard Alberta’s water. Sustainable Resource Development is working toward healthy aquatic ecosystems by developing monitoring tools that assess the health of individual fish populations and whole fish communities.

  • Wetland Policy
    
    The Water for Life action plan calls for the implementation of a wetland policy. Alberta Environment, Sustainable Resource Development and the Energy Resources Conservation Board are developing a wetland policy based on recommendations from the Alberta Water Council. The policy will focus on wetland protection and restoration and mitigation of impacts.

Related Information

• About Biodiversity
• Convention on Biological Diversity

In 2007, Sustainable Resource Development kicked off a pilot project called the Mobile Office Initiative to increase the accessibility of information for field employees. This allows project field staff to spend less time in the office and more time in the field. The project was conducted in the Woodlands, Prairies, Upper Hay and Foothills areas with selected Lands Division field staff receiving a rugged laptop computer, capable of withstanding weather, rough use and the day-to-day wear and tear of field operations.

At the end of the pilot project, the Lands officers involved reported improved efficiency and effectiveness. The Mobile Office improved access to data such as geo-referencing, up-to-date maps, forms and documents. With the ability to access applications and programs and transmit information from the field, employees can do tasks they used to do from their desks, without traveling to and from the office, or sitting in the field with little to no contact with the office. The response from staff was very positive.

The Mobile Office program has been such a success that the 64-member Initiative team received the Premier’s Award of Excellence in 2009 for superior client service and business excellence.

The department is working to expand the program across the province. In 2010, Sustainable Resource Development will have more than 250 rugged laptops in use across the province.