WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING PROJECT DIRECTORY - 2012
CURRENT WATER-RELATED RESEARCH AND MONITORING PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED
OLDMAN WATERSHED MAP
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 1
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
WELCOME TO THE OLDMAN WATERSHED COUNCIL RESEARCH AND MONITORING PROJECT DIRECTORY!
The Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) Watershed pesticides in the mountain Science Team is very excited to announce the second snowpack, to a national edition of the Research and Monitoring Project study to understand the Directory. This year, the focus includes both surface impact of hydropower and groundwater projects that are being conducted in generation on fish and fish the Oldman Watershed. habitat, to a project that uses citizen-science to This Directory promotes awareness about: monitor amphibians, to a WHO the organizations and individuals long-term groundwater conducting water–related projects are; monitoring project undertaken by Lethbridge WHAT the objectives (goals) of these projects College students and many are; more. Castle River. Photo—J. Smith. WHERE in the Oldman Watershed these projects are being conducted; Again this year, a diverse number of sectors participated WHEN these projects will be conducted (project in the Directory including academics, provincial and timeline); federal government agencies, municipalities, non- HOW these projects will be conducted government organizations, industry, consultants, First (experimental design); and Nations and recreational groups. WHY these research and monitoring projects are We would like to acknowledge the new and continued important to residents of the Oldman Watershed. support of all the project leads who volunteered their time From the Headwaters Region in the west to the and expertise for the Directory. Their dedication to this Irrigation Districts in the east, researchers across the project is the key to its success. We are inspired about Oldman Watershed are working on exciting projects to their commitment to educate others, learn more about better understand our watershed. Projects this year and care for our Watershed! vary from investigating the presence of agricultural The Watershed Science Team hopes that this Directory will not only increase awareness about these projects but WHO IS THE WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM? will also play an important role in future collaborations. We hope you enjoy learning more about the current work The Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) Watershed people are doing to better understand and manage our Science Team works to achieve OWC goals by focus- Watershed. ing on watershed science related initiatives. Our goal is to promote discussion among agencies and organiza- tions working on water-related research and monitoring project by encouraging collaboration on water-related issues in the Oldman Watershed.
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 2
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
WELCOME TO THE OLDMAN WATERSHED COUNCIL RESEARCH AND MONITORING PROJECT DIRECTORY!
HOW TO NAVIGATE THE DIRECTORY
Each project summary has a WATERSHED MAP that indicates where the research and/or monitoring project is taking place in the Oldman Watershed. These maps are located in the top right corner of each individual summary. Sub-Basins were referenced from the OWC State of the Watershed Report.
Upper Waterton Lake. Photo—J. Smith.
A TABLE OF CONTENTS on Page 4 has been Southern provided to easily navigate this Directory. Tributaries Prairie Summaries have been organized alphabetically by organization.
Projects are also indexed according to project KEYWORDS. For a list of projects categorized by keyword, see Page 73.
Foothills Mountain BE PART OF THE DIRECTORY!
PROJECT AREA DIVISIONS Are you part of any current or upcoming water- Oldman Watershed Sub-Basins related research and monitoring projects in the Old- man Basin? If so, we would love to learn about it. Please contact the OWC at [email protected] or (403) 381-5801. WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK For current research initiatives in Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/waterton/plan/ plan3.aspx
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 3
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEASONAL DIVERSITY OF PLANKTONIC PROTISTS IN THE OLDMAN RIVER OF SOUTHWESTERN ALBERTA, CANADA Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 9
THE ROLE OF WATER IN THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF CAMPYLOBACTERIOSIS IN SOUTHWESTERN ALBERTA Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 10
RIDGE RESERVOIR WATER QUALITY STUDY Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 11
WATERSHED EVALUATION OF BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (WEBS) IN THE LOWER LITTLE BOW RIVER WATERSHED Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 12
INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF AGRICULTURAL PESTICIDES IN HIGH-ALTITUDE PRECIPITATION OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA ROCKY MOUNTAINS Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 13
INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF MANURE-BORNE ESTROGEN IN SURFACE WATERS OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada ...... 14
LIVESTOCK MANURE IMPACTS ON GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN ALBERTA Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development ...... 15
WATER DIVERTED FOR IRRIGATION PURPOSES BY IRRIGATION DISTRICTS IN SOUTHERN ALBERTA Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development ...... 16
ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY IN ALBERTA'S IRRIGATION DISTRICTS Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development ...... 17
NUTRIENT BENEFICIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES EVALUATION PROJECT Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development ...... 18
WATERTON DRAINAGE BULL TROUT STATUS ASSESSMENT Alberta Conservation Association ...... 19
THE ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF MIGRATORY BULL TROUT IN THE CASTLE RIVER DRAINAGE Alberta Conservation Association ...... 20
ALBERTA VOLUNTEER AMPHIBIAN MONITORING PROJECT (AVAMP) Alberta Conservation Association ...... 21
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS—continued
SOUTH RIPARIAN CONSERVATION Alberta Conservation Association ...... 22
CROWSNEST RIVER ANGLER SURVEY Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 23
CROWSNEST RIVER MOUNTAIN WHITEFISH SNORKEL SURVEY AND ABUNDANCE ESTIMATE Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 24
FISH ABUNDANCE MONITORING AT FOUR INDEX SITES WITHIN THE LOST CREEK FIRE Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 25
MONITORING BULL TROUT SPAWNING ACTIVITY, DISTRIBUTION AND ABUNDANCE IN THE UPPER OLDMAN RIVER DRAINAGE Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 26
WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING IN WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT STREAMS Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 27
REMNANT WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT POPULATION INVENTORY FOR SOUTHERN ALBERTA Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 28
NUTRIENT ASSESSMENT – FRANK LAKE, TWIN VALLEY RESERVOIR Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 29
BASELINE WATER QUALITY DATA – SOUTHERN LAKES AND RESERVOIRS Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 30
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS – PHYSICAL CONDITIONS – SOUTHERN RIVERS Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 31
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS – UPPER OLDMAN TRIBUTARIES Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 32
LONG-TERM RIVER NETWORK – SOUTHERN ALBERTA RIVERS Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 33
TRIBUTARY MONITORING FOR WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES DEVELOPMENT – OLDMAN WATERSHED Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 34
WATERSHED PLANNING ADVISORY COUNCIL SUPPORT—OLDMAN WATERSHED COUNCIL—CASTLE RIVER WATER QUALITY SAMPLING Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 35
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS—continued
ALBERTA RIVER BASINS—HYDROMETRIC AND METEOROLOGICAL DATA MONITORING AND VALIDATION IN THE OLDMAN RIVER SUB BASIN Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development...... 36
LAKEWATCH Alberta Lakes Management Society ...... 37
AN EVALUATION OF THE RIPARIAN HEALTH OF PRIORITY WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT STREAMS IN ALBERTA’S SOUTH EASTERN SLOPES Cows and Fish ...... 38
STREAMKEEPERS PROGRAM: CROWSNEST PASS Crowsnest Conservation Society ...... 39
MOVEMENT AND HABITAT USE OF LAKE STURGEON IN THE SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER BASIN Department of Fisheries and Oceans ...... 40
FOOTHILLS STREAM CROSSINGS PROGRAM Devon Energy ...... 41
WATER QUALITY OF STORM WATER OUTFALLS IN THE CITY OF LETHBRIDGE Lethbridge College ...... 42
LONG-TERM GROUNDWATER MONITORING AT LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE Lethbridge College ...... 43
YEAR-ROUND MONITORING OF CHLORIDE CONCENTRATIONS IN OLDMAN RIVER BASIN WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON THE EFFECTS OF DE-ICING CHEMICALS ON SURFACE WATER QUALITY Lethbridge College ...... 44
WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY SAMPLING BY MUNICIPALITIES IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Municipalities ...... 45
CROWSNEST PASS RIPARIAN RESTORATION PROGRAM Municipality of Crowsnest Pass ...... 46
CROWSNEST WATERSHED AQUIFER MAPPING AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT PLANNING STUDY Oldman Watershed Council ...... 47
THE INVESTIGATION OF HIGH NITROGEN CONCENTRATIONS IN WATER WELLS NEAR FORT MACLEOD Oldman Watershed Council ...... 48
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS—continued
WILLOW CREEK WATERSHED AQUIFER MAPPING AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT PLANNING STUDY Oldman Watershed Council ...... 49
HEADWATERS INDICATORS PROJECT Oldman Watershed Council ...... 50
ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH AGRICULTURAL ORGANIC FERTILIZERS OF ANIMALS, POULTRY AND HUMAN ORIGIN Public Health Agency of Canada ...... 51
GREYWATER REUSE PILOT PROJECT SEGO Industries ...... 52
DRYWOOD CREEK WATERSHED RENEWAL PROGRAM Trout Unlimited ...... 53
SOUTHERN ROCKIES WATERSHED PROJECT: REGIONAL SOURCE WATER QUALITY AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DOWNSTREAM DRINKING WATER SUPPLIES FROM ROCKY MOUNTAIN HEADWATERS REGION University of Alberta ...... 54
SOUTHERN ROCKIES WATERSHED PROJECT: SOURCE WATER SUPPLY FROM THE HEADWATERS OF THE OLDMAN WATERSHED (PHASE I & II) University of Alberta ...... 55
EVOLUTIONARY RESPONSE OF LONGNOSE DACE TO CONTAMINANTS University of Calgary ...... 56
PARASITES IN FISH IN RESERVOIRS University of Lethbridge ...... 57
PARASITES OF FORAGE FISH IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED University of Lethbridge ...... 58
ROLE OF EMERGING DISEASES IN AQUATIC ANIMALS University of Lethbridge ...... 59
BEHAVIOURAL ECOTOXICOLOGY: THE USE OF FISH BEHAVIOUR AS AN INDICATOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS University of Lethbridge ...... 60
CREATING A HYDRO-CLIMATOLOGICAL ATLAS OF ALBERTA University of Lethbridge ...... 61
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS—continued
IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE WATER BALANCE IN THE OLDMAN RIVER BASIN University of Lethbridge ...... 62
STREAM TEMPERATURE RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE: IMPLICATIONS FOR NATIVE FISH SPECIES University of Lethbridge ...... 63
ADAPTATION AND CONSERVATION OF FLOODPLAIN FORESTS University of Lethbridge ...... 64
ALBERTA SPRINGS PROJECT University of Lethbridge ...... 65
RIVERS FOR LIFE University of Lethbridge ...... 66
WATER AND ENVIRONMENT HUB (WEHUB) University of Lethbridge ...... 67
PREDICTING BROOK TROUT INVASIVENESS IN BULL TROUT STREAMS OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES University of Lethbridge ...... 68
NSERC HYDRONET University of Montreal ...... 69
VULNERABILITY AND ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE EXTREMES University of Regina ...... 70
SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER BASIN ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE VARIABILITY PROJECT WaterSMART ...... 71
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2013
SEASONAL DIVERSITY OF PLANKTONIC Researchers at Agriculture and Agri-food Canada and PROTISTS IN THE OLDMAN RIVER OF University of Lethbridge are profiling how the seasonal distribution of planktonic protists (small drifting aquatic life SOUTHWESTERN ALBERTA, CANADA forms made up of only one cell) is linked to the Project Leads: occurrence of pathogenic bacteria (specifically Douglas Inglis (Agriculture and Agri-food Canada) Campylobacter jejuni) in the Oldman Watershed. Although Brent Selinger (University of Lethbridge) protists are extremely diverse, play critical roles in aquatic Matthew Thomas (University of Lethbridge) food webs, and may be used as indicator organisms, they are rarely studied. Furthermore, they have been known to Project Partner: host human pathogens. During periods of unfavourable Ed Topp (Agriculture and Agri-food Canada) environmental conditions, some protists encyst and are highly resistant to the water treatment process (e.g. Project Funding Sources: chlorination and ultraviolet irradiation). In this way, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada pathogenic bacteria persisting within protists may elude University of Lethbridge the water treatment process and pose a significant risk to human health. This project is collecting raw water samples along the Oldman River and its tributaries on a weekly basis for one year and applying molecular analyses to study protistan diversity. This data will be used to determine the seasonal distribution of protists as well as identify protists for future studies involving the protection of waterborne pathogens. Understanding the seasonal role protists play in harbouring pathogenic bacteria will allow for upgrades to the water treatment process. This work will help improve our understanding of protistan diversity in the Oldman Watershed and may also be used to enhance the quality of municipal drinking water, which is essential for public health and wellbeing in the Oldman Watershed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2013
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2015
THE ROLE OF WATER IN THE A research team led by Agriculture and Agri-Food EPIDEMIOLOGY OF CAMPYLOBACTERIOSIS Canada is investigating the role that water plays in the epidemiology (occurrence of disease among a group of IN SOUTHWESTERN ALBERTA people in space and time) of a common intestinal disease caused by bacteria within the genus Campylobacter (primarily Campylobacter jejuni, Acrobacter, and A. butzleri). ‘Campylobacteriosis’ is an acute inflammatory disease of the intestine caused by Campylobacter species. Southwestern Alberta is a ‘hot spot’ for campylobacteriosis in Canada. Disease occurs after an individual ingests a small number of Campylobacter cells, which subsequently infect tissues of their intestine. The bacterium then multiplies in the intestine where it induces an inflammatory response and diarrhea. Most mammals and birds including livestock are infected and shed Campylobacter species in their feces, although they may not exhibit signs of disease. The research team is sampling surface waters in the Oldman Watershed, and measuring the presence and quantity of Campylobacter Campylobacter cell. Photo – G.D.Inglis. species in water. The team is also working to isolate these bacteria from infected humans and drinking water Project Lead: in the same space and time. Specific and novel genetic G. Douglas Inglis (Agriculture and Agri-Food fingerprinting methods are being used to ascertain where Canada) Campylobacter species infecting humans come from, why Project Partners: there is such a high prevalence of campylobacteriosis in Matthew C. Thomas (University of Lethbridge) southwestern Alberta and the mechanisms of Valerie F. Boras (Chinook Regional Hospital) transmission (e.g. how the bacteria persist in water and Eduardo Taboada (Public Health Agency of Canada) are transmitted to humans and livestock). Preliminary C. Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and results have revealed that most infections occur in people Sustainable Resource Development) living in urban centres with water treatment, so the project Vivien Suttorp (Alberta Health Services) is also focusing on determining to what extent and how C. L. Brent Selinger (University of Lethbridge) jejuni survives the water treatment processes. This City of Lethbridge – Water Utility research will allow the team to assess the risk that City of Lethbridge – Wastewater Utility Campylobacter species in water pose to public health in southwestern Alberta and to develop effective mitigation Project Funding Source: strategies to reduce the burden of campylobacteriosis on Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency Ltd. Canadians.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2013
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2003 to Ongoing
RIDGE RESERVOIR WATER QUALITY STUDY Environment Canada has teamed up with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to collect water samples and develop a model to address water quality concerns affecting community water supply of the Ridge Reservoir in the Oldman Watershed. The Ridge Reservoir is an important water supply for livestock watering and municipal uses. Water entering the Ridge Reservoir is impacted by the surrounding landscape of agriculture and livestock operations. These land use activities are known to contribute to the increase of nutrients in streams and water bodies in these areas. Increased nutrients can lead to algal and cyanobacteria blooms, which reduce water quality and cause health risks if they occur in source areas for human and livestock drinking water. Water users of the Ridge Reservoir raised concerns about the taste and odour of their water, resulting in, this project being undertaken. During the summers and falls of 2003 Water sampling at Ridge Reservoir. Photo - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to 2007, water sampling collection programs were conducted to gather water quality and algal information at Project Leads: several sites along the shore of Ridge Reservoir. The Sue Watson (Environment Canada) samples were analysed for nutrient, physical and Bunny Mah (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) chemical water quality indicators. Using this data, researchers are currently working to develop a water Project Partners: quality model for the reservoir that will help predict Town of Raymond changes in the water quality. This study will assess Chinook Health Region nutrient loading from the surrounding agricultural areas, County of Warner inform appropriate management practices, develop and Health Canada deliver water quality workshops, and provide information University of Calgary to treatment designs. Understanding the impact of University of Alberta agriculture and animals operations on source water will Lethbridge Community College help managers encourage beneficial management practises in these areas and increase watershed protection in the Oldman Watershed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected]
Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2004 to 2013
WATERSHED EVALUATION OF BEST During a ten-year (2004 to 2013) research project, MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (WEBS) IN THE scientists at the Lethbridge Agriculture Research Centre are examining the use of best management practices LOWER LITTLE BOW RIVER WATERSHED (BMP’s) to improve water quality and the natural environment in the lower Little Bow River Watershed. The research project is also evaluating the economic implications (costs and benefits) of installing BMP’s. Hydrologic modelling is also being conducted to simulate ‘what-if” scenarios with BMPs and scale-up the findings to other and larger watersheds. Agriculture is tightly linked with water quality and environmental issues within Alberta. Surface water in agricultural areas can have higher sediment, nutrients and pathogens, which all reduce the quality of the water. Agriculture can also impact the health of riparian areas, range lands and soils. In the lower Little Bow River Watershed several different BMP’s have been implemented. These BMPs include off-stream watering with and without fencing, buffers, conversion of annual crops to forages, and manure management. Using a Water sampling in the lower Little Bow River. Photo - T. Curtis. combination of small and large replicated plots, producer fields, rivers, and watershed scale studies, researchers Project Lead: will measure the effects of these BMPs on water quality. In Jim Miller (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) addition, the effects of these BMPs on other environmental Project Partners: aspects such as soil, riparian and rangeland health, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada—Research aquatic insects, fish ecology, streambank erosion, and Branch greenhouse gas emissions will also be evaluated. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada—Agri- Economic analysis will then be used to determine the Environmental Services Branch costs and benefits of individual BMP’s. The most effective County of Lethbridge BMP’s are those that are both cost-effective and those University of Alberta that improve water quality the most or prevent water Alberta Sustainable Development pollution. Selecting the most effective BMP’s in agriculture Ducks Unlimited areas will maximize value for the producer, the natural Producers in the watershed environment and all other downstream users of the water. Understanding small-scale watershed processes will Project Funding Sources: increase our ability to model these processes for larger Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada areas and will help direct future watershed management Agri-Environmental Services Branch initiatives.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2015
INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF Researchers from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada are AGRICULTURAL PESTICIDES IN HIGH- leading an investigation of whether pesticides are present in high altitude precipitations (snow and rain) and ALTITUDE PRECIPITATION OF SOUTHERN snowpack and how this contributes to overall irrigation ALBERTA ROCKY MOUNTAINS water quality. Samples are collected in the Mountains and Southern Tributaries sub-basins in the Oldman Watershed. Water quality in the headwaters region has a direct link to the water quality downstream in the irrigation districts. The snowmelt derived from the annual snowpack is the single most important source of water for irrigation, recreation, consumption and livestock watering in the Oldman Watershed. Researchers are assessing the contribution of the annual snowpack to irrigation water quality. Each month, snow and water samples are collected at twelve sites throughout the study region and analyzed for the presence and absence of 100 pesticides. The impact of long-range atmospheric transport of pesticides is unknown at this time. By understanding the water quality of high-altitude precipitation and the snowpack in the headwaters, researchers will be able to Southern Alberta mountains. Photo—D. Nilsson. better predict water quality downstream for the remainder of the Oldman Watershed.
Project Lead: Claudia Sheedy (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
Project Partners: Denise Nilsson (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Scott Campbell (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Annemieke Farenhorst (University of Manitoba) Shannon Frank (Oldman Watershed Council)
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2013 to 2016
INVESTIGATION OF THE PRESENCE OF Beginning in January 2013, Agriculture and Agri-Food MANURE-BORNE ESTROGEN IN SURFACE Canada will lead a three-year project to assess the potential impacts of manure applications on river water WATERS OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA quality with a focus on manure-borne estrogens 17β- estradiol, estriol and estrone. Throughout the Oldman Watershed, livestock manure is applied to agricultural land to increase crop productivity. The manure contributes both organic matter and nutrients to the soil. Through natural water cycle processes, manure components break-down and can enter surface water and groundwater. In this project, researchers are investigating the presence of natural estrogens in both surface and groundwater. Surface water samples from the Oldman River in Lethbridge and groundwater samples from the Battersea sub-basin will be collected during the summer months of 2015 and 2016. In the lab, the presence of natural estrogens in water samples will be determined by immuno-PCR, a novel, highly specific and sensitive detection method combining immunoassay Water sampling in winter. Photo–C. Sheedy. (antibody-based test used to detect and quantify a specific contaminant) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) (a biochemical technology in molecular biology Project Leads: that amplifies a piece of DNA). Researchers will analyze Claudia Sheedy (Agriculture and Agri-Food water samples for three manure- borne estrogens; estriol, Canada) estrone, and 17β-estradiol. The presence of estrogenic
compounds in the water cycle can affect wildlife and Project Partners: aquatic life quality. This project will allow a better Denise Nilsson (Agriculture and Agri-Food environmental monitoring of the impact of manure Canada) applications on water quality in southern Alberta. Daniel Gaudet (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Annemieke Farenhorst (University of Manitoba) Alice Hontela (University of Lethbridge)
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2008 to 2015
LIVESTOCK MANURE IMPACTS ON Livestock production and confined feeding operations are GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN ALBERTA a major industry and land user within the Oldman Watershed. It is important to understand potential impacts that agriculture has on natural resources, including groundwater, and to develop suitable management practices and planning strategies to minimize risk. Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD), in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Board, University of Saskatchewan, and the Alberta Irrigation Projects Association are studying the impact that manure field application and storage facilities have on groundwater quality in Alberta. From 2008 to 2015, ARD is monitoring 116 groundwater wells in the Battersea sub-basin in the prairie region of the Oldman Watershed. The Battersea region is an ideal location for this study for not only does it have the highest density of confined feeding operations in Alberta, much of the land is also irrigated. This project is part of a larger provincial initiative, which also includes Installation of a groundwater monitoring well in the Battersea study area. Photo - Alberta Agricul- ture and Rural Development. groundwater study sites in the Ponoka-Lacombe area. Researchers monitor groundwater quality parameters Project Leads: such as nitrogen, phosphorus, organic carbon, pH, salts, Alberta Agriculture and Rural and isotopes. Groundwater elevation and vertical and Development horizontal subsurface flow are also measured, as well as Project Partners: manure and soil characteristics. Results will be compared Producers in the study areas to previous work in the Battersea sub-basin completed ten Natural Resources Conservation Board years ago to understand changes, if any, to water quality University of Saskatchewan with time. This project will provide science-based Alberta Irrigation Projects Association information on the potential risks of livestock manure management on groundwater quality with time, provide a Project Funding Sources: better understanding of the processes affecting the fate Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource and transport of manure constituents in groundwater, and Development recommend solutions to mitigate potential risks. University of Alberta University of Kansas Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Canada Water Network
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Barry Olson at [email protected] or VISIT: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/irr14241 Summary Completed 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
WATER DIVERTED FOR IRRIGATION Irrigation districts are required to record the volume of PURPOSES BY IRRIGATION DISTRICTS IN water diverted from, consumed and returned to the reservoirs and river systems under their licensed SOUTHERN ALBERTA allocation regulated by the Water Act. In the prairie region of Oldman Watershed, most agricultural crops do not get enough moisture through natural rain and snowfall. In the early years of farming in this area, it was recognized that agricultural crops could be more successful if they were irrigated. Irrigation districts were formed and water licences were allocated to divert large volumes of water from the Oldman River. Currently, 83% of water allocations in the Oldman Watershed are held by irrigation districts. These allocations do not guarantee water supply; rather, they guarantee the right to take water if sufficient water is available. Irrigation districts manage these water allocations by measuring the volume of water diverted from off-stream storage reservoirs for agricultural irrigation purposes, industry, private users and urban areas. They then measure the return of water Irrigation canal. Photo—Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. back into the river systems. Some of the irrigation districts use automated equipment such as scientific instruments Project Lead: or weirs to measure the volume of water diverted, while Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development others use manual measurement techniques. Knowing the volume of water diverted for irrigation purposes by irrigation districts is important for water resource management in the Oldman Watershed. Each year, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, with the assistance of Alberta Environment, publish the amount of water diverted by irrigation districts titled, “Alberta Irrigation Information.” See link below to review the
document.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/irr7401, http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/ deptdocs.nsf/all/irr14080, or http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/irr14171 For a list of irrigation districts in Alberta visit http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/irr4475 Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2015
ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY IN Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development in partnership ALBERTA’S IRRIGATION DISTRICTS with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Irrigation Council of Alberta and the Alberta Irrigation Project Association are conducting a study to assess the quality of surface water used for irrigation of agricultural crops across southern Alberta, including the Oldman Watershed. Quality agriculture and agri-food production is dependent upon high quality, clean source water. The water quality monitoring program is looking for concentrations of nutrients, metals, pesticides, and physical & biological water quality parameters. From 2011 to 2015, over eighty sampling sites from eleven Alberta irrigation districts are sampled 4 times per season. In 2012, analysis for waterborne pathogens and microcystins of blue-green algea were added in collaboration with Alberta Health Services and Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. This monitoring program will assess the quality of source water used for irrigation from Irrigation district water sampling. Photo – D. Gross. a food production perspective. It will also assess the change in water quality as it travels through the irrigation districts’ infrastructure and the potential impact of irrigation Project Leads: returns on the water quality of the Oldman, Bow and South Jollin Charest (Alberta Agriculture and Rural Saskatchewan Rivers. The data collected will also help Development) determine if there are differences in water quality between Don Gross (Alberta Agriculture and Rural irrigation districts. Irrigation district water is primarily used Development) for irrigating crops; however, it also supports a variety of
users including livestock producers, municipalities, food Project Partner: processing industries and recreational users. This project Claudia Sheedy (Agriculture and Agri-Food will not only contribute to the understanding of irrigation Canada) water quality, but also help irrigators and other users to
minimize their impact on the water quality to promote Project Funding Sources: environmentally sustainable water management. Alberta Irrigation Council Alberta Irrigation Projects Association
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/irr14080 Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 17
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2007 to 2012
NUTRIENT BENEFICIAL MANAGEMENT During 2007 to 2012, Alberta Agriculture and Rural PRACTICES EVALUATION PROJECT Development is assessing the environmental effectiveness and economic implications of agricultural nutrient Beneficial Management Practises (BMP’s) at field and watershed scales in Alberta. Agriculture is one of the largest industries in southern Alberta and affects a large portion of the land base. Livestock manure and inorganic fertilizers can be used to provide nutrients to the soil for optimum crop production. The use of nutrients in agriculture, if not managed effectively, can be lost in runoff during spring snowmelt and large rainfall events and washed into streams and water bodies; thereby, reducing water quality. Additional concerns include the loss of nutrients from wintering sites and direct access of livestock to water bodies. It has been suggested that BMP’s can be effective in minimizing these impacts; however, only limited research on the environmental and economic effectiveness of BMP’s has been conducted in Controlling livestock assess to water bodies with the use of fencing and off-stream watering at one of the BMP sites in the Indianfarm Creek Watershed. Photo - Alberta Agriculture and Rural Alberta. This purpose of this project is to better understand Development. the effectiveness of individual BMP’s in reducing Project Leads: agricultural impacts on the environment at specific farms Andrea Kalischuk (Alberta Agriculture and Rural and to better model these impacts at the watershed scale. Development) The economic costs and benefits of individual BMP’s will Barry Olson (Alberta Agriculture and Rural also be determined. In the Oldman Watershed, the BMP’s Development) are located in Indianfarm Creek Watershed near Pincher Project Partners: Creek, Battersea Drain Watershed near Picture Butte, and Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund the Lower Little Bow River Watershed near Turin. Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Determining the BMP’s that can improve water quality and Development are cost effective, will direct management and policy Municipality of Pincher Creek decisions to ensure that the agriculture industry continues County of Lacombe to have the public license to operate while protecting University of Alberta environmental resources. University of Saskatchewan Project Funding Sources: - continued: Alberta Conservation Association Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Producers in study watersheds Development Project Funding Sources: Alberta Conservation Association Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: contact [email protected] or [email protected] or VISIT: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/epw11955 Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012 Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 18
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2014
WATERTON DRAINAGE BULL TROUT The distribution and abundance of Alberta’s provincial fish, STATUS ASSESSMENT Bull Trout, has declined substantially across the province. Overharvesting, habitat degradation, and competition from invasive species, such as Brook and Brown Trout, have led to Bull Trout being designated as a Species of Special Concern. Within the Waterton drainage, Bull Trout are considered at high risk of extirpation. While Bull Trout declines in the drainage are well known, data collection has been temporally and geographically sporadic to date. Current knowledge of Bull Trout distribution in the Waterton drainage is essential to identify and prioritize where remediation efforts should begin for recovery of the species. In 2012, the Alberta Conservation Association began a drainage-wide inventory to provide a baseline of the current extent of Bull Trout populations relative to thermal habitat range and historical distributions. Bull Trout and competitive invasive trout populations are inventoried using backpack and totebarge electrofishing Fisheries crew raft-electrofishing on the Waterton River. Photo—J. Blackburn. on major tributaries and jetboat and raft electrofishing on the Waterton River. Sampling is coordinated with Riparian Health Assessments conducted by the Nature Project Leads: Conservancy of Canada to correlate population changes Jason Blackburn (Alberta Conservation Association) with any changes to riparian health. In addition,
temperature loggers collect water temperatures to identify Project Partners: suitable thermal habitat and detect potential upstream Barb Johnston (Waterton Lakes National Park) temperature gradients relative to juvenile Bull Trout Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and tolerance ranges. Researchers are also documenting fish Sustainable Resource Development) communities that are established above and below Chelsea Jaeger (Nature Conservancy of Canada) physical barriers such as dams, waterfalls, subsurface Brian Meagher (Trout Unlimited Canada) reaches and high gradient areas to help delineate Will Warnock (University of Lethbridge) boundaries of physically isolated populations that might
benefit from habitat reconnection or contribute to drainage Project Funding Source: population health via genetic exchange. Eventual project Alberta Conservation Association outcomes will provide information to prioritize conservation projects and may include creation and enhancement of recreational angling opportunities, improvements to water quality and fish and wildlife habitats. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://www.ab-conservation.com/go/default/index.cfm/programs/fisheries/ Summary Completed 2013 Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 19
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2014
THE ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) is in their second MIGRATORY BULL TROUT IN THE CASTLE year of a four year comprehensive population assessment of Bull Trout in the Castle River drainage of RIVER DRAINAGE the Oldman Watershed. In the past, Bull Trout thrived in Alberta river systems flowing from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains to downstream reaches as far as the prairie and parkland areas. Today, Bull Trout distributions in the Oldman Watershed have declined to one third of their historical range. This drastic decline is the result of over-fishing, loss of habitat due to poor land management practices, construction of instream barriers and the introduction of non-native fish species. In the Oldman Watershed, Bull Trout are now found primarily in most headwater drainages. The Castle River drainage is an important refuge to the remaining Bull Trout. Increasing recreation, forestry and industrial pressures could potentially impact the Bull Trout population in this area. Starting in 2011, biologists began collecting baseline data to assess the current status of Bull Trout in Bull Trout. Photo - B.Hurkett. the Castle River drainage. This project focuses on important Bull Trout spawning tributaries including Mill Project Lead: Creek, Carbondale River, South Castle River, and West Brad Hurkett (Alberta Conservation Association) Castle River. ACA installed fish traps in each of these spawning tributaries to capture and tag post-spawn Bull Project Partner: Trout. Following four years of trapping efforts, fish mark- Jason Blackburn (Alberta Conservation recapture data will be analyzed to estimate the Association) abundance of the Castle River Bull Trout population. In addition to a detailed population assessment, a spawning Project Funding Sources: assessment will identify all Bull Trout spawning reaches Alberta Conservation Association throughout the Castle River drainage. Spawning Devon Canada Corporation assessments consist of redd surveys (trout nests) where biologist hike through a spawning stream to identify Bull Trout redds. Conducting a baseline population assessment, in important Bull Trout habitat, will help managers conserve current populations and protect important spawning tributaries for Alberta’s provincial fish, the Bull Trout.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 20
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
ALBERTA VOLUNTEER AMPHIBIAN To better understand the distribution and status of MONITORING PROGRAM (AVAMP) Alberta’s amphibian species, Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) has created a province-wide, amateur scientist program called the Alberta Volunteer Amphibian Monitoring Program (AVAMP). Using volunteers, such as individuals, families, schools, naturalist groups and organizations, frog, toad and salamander observations are collected and uploaded online, on the program’s web page. All data collected is then entered into Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development’s Fish and Wildlife Management Information System database where government staff, industry and public can store and access the data. Acquiring this fundamental information is an important first step to many amphibian conservation initiatives. ACA offers local volunteers ongoing support for amphibian identification and guidance in monitoring and submitting observations. Within the Oldman Watershed, organizations, such as Alberta Sometimes it can be difficult to spot amphibians, but that is not to say they haven’t seen you! Part Tourism, Parks, and Recreation are monitoring of the enjoyment of volunteering with AVAMP is being out in nature; not seeing amphibians is not necessarily a bad thing. Photo—K. Kendell. amphibians in Beauvais Lake Provincial Park and Crowsnest Conservation is focused in the Crowsnest Project Lead: Valley and Castle area. The AVAMP impacts conservation Kris Kendell (Alberta Conservation Association) in Alberta through increased public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Alberta’s biodiversity Project Partner: and ecosystems. Volunteer groups that are already Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resources recreating and observing their natural surroundings, can Development assist biologists with the detection of new amphibian populations that may otherwise go undetected, increasing our understanding of the distribution and general status of Alberta’s amphibian species. Actively managing your land and water for amphibians can save time and resources, improve animals and plant health, increase land value and increase returns from farming and ranching inputs. To learn more about amphibians and implementing habitat stewardship on your property, read “Amphibians on my land” available on the AVAMP web page. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or 1-877-777-FROG (3764) or VISIT: http://www.ab-conservation.com/avamp Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 21
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
SOUTH RIPARIAN CONSERVATION The Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) is dedicated to serving hunters, anglers, and recreationalists of Alberta. By conserving and enhancing fish and wildlife habitat, the ACA is able to protect fish and wildlife populations and provide opportunities for all Albertans. Within the Foothills Sub-basin of the Oldman Watershed, the ACA has been working with voluntary landowners and land managers to improve riparian health through their South Riparian Conservation Program. Riparian management and enhancement plays a strong role in habitat conservation, while also providing the benefits of improved water quality. ACA provides resources, such as discussing livestock management strategies, providing education and awareness on riparian ecosystems and offering funding for the implementation of on-the-ground solutions, to improve riparian health. Projects are created by maintaining contacts and building relationships with landowners, Todd Creek. Photo—M. Uchikura. watershed groups and partnering agencies. ACA participates in local watershed group meetings and meets Project Lead: with landowners one-on-one to discuss the program and Alberta Conservation Association opportunities for partnerships. These rural partnerships are a valuable program component that contribute to the Project Partners: program’s success. It is through the commitment of these Various watershed groups and individual landowners and land managers to improve riparian health, landowners that the health of the entire landscape benefits. Jeff Porter (Southwest Alberta Conservation Partnership)
Project Funding Sources: Penn West RBC Blue Water Grant
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 22
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to Ongoing
CROWSNEST RIVER ANGLER SURVEY In 2009, the Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) Fish and Wildlife Division conducted an angler survey to assess the use of the Crowsnest River recreational fishery. This survey is being used to help manage and maintain sustainable wild fish populations in the headwaters of the Oldman Watershed. Fisheries biologists are challenged with balancing harvest and catch-and release mortality with the need for maintaining sufficient numbers of mature spawning fish to ensure sustainable populations. Angling surveys are a common and efficient tool used to collect information on both the sport fishery and fish population itself. Along the entire Crowsnest River, the project team measured the use of the fishery by counting angler vehicles parked at access points and by interviewing anglers. The data collected included: total hours of fishing, total number of people fishing, total number of fish caught, released and Mountain Whitefish. Photo—K. Neufeld. harvested and the number of fish caught per hour. The project also collected data on the characteristics and Project Lead: opinions of the people fishing such as fish harvesting Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and opportunities, seasonal closure to the fishery, harvest Sustainable Resource Development) limits, size limits and bait restrictions. This survey will be compared to previous surveys conducted on the river, Project Funding Source: which could indicate changes over time to the Crowsnest Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource River fish populations and/or recreational fishery. This Development angler survey will help fisheries biologists make important management decisions and help preserve the overall ecological integrity of the Oldman Watershed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 23
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to Ongoing
CROWSNEST RIVER MOUNTAIN WHITEFISH In 2012, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource SNORKEL SURVEY AND ABUNDANCE Development undertook a snorkel survey of spawning Mountain Whitefish in the Crowsnest River in response to ESTIMATE anglers’ concerns about a perceived decline in the population in recent years. A population survey done by the Alberta Conservation Association in 2010 provided a rough population estimate of 16,517 Mountain Whitefish over 77 mm, but confidence intervals were large and the survey took extensive amounts of electrofishing effort, making it difficult to replicate. The survey did suggest however, that whitefish populations were lower than expected. Snorkel surveys can provide a good estimate of mature population size because whitefish congregate in large schools in the fall prior to spawning. These congregations can be spotted and the number of individuals present can be estimated quickly and accurately by snorkelers. The effort required for the survey is minimal and if repeated in subsequent years, the results can be easily compared from one year to the Mountain Whitefish survey in the Crowsnest River. Photo—M. Coombs. next. Individuals with TERA Environmental Consultants and Golder Associates Ltd. who are experienced in Project Lead: conducting snorkel surveys for Mountain Whitefish were Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and contracted to perform the survey. They snorkeled the Sustainable Resource Development) entire Crowsnest River from Crowsnest Lake to the Oldman Reservoir, noting congregations of whitefish and Project Partner: counting individuals over 20 cm. Approximately 3000 Greg Eisler (TERA Environmental Consultants) whitefish were observed, although the data is still being Ryan Popowich (Golder Associates Ltd.) complied and summarized in a report. This survey will provide a valuable baseline to compare subsequent Project Funding Source: snorkel surveys to and will allow fisheries biologists to Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource monitor Mountain Whitefish population changes over Development time.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 24
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2000 to Ongoing
FISH ABUNDANCE MONITORING AT FOUR Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource INDEX SITES WITHIN THE LOST CREEK FIRE Development, Fish and Wildlife Division is monitoring changes in fish abundance and size in the headwaters of the Oldman Watershed in an area affected by wildfire. In 2003, the Lost Creek fire in the Crowsnest Pass region burned the headwater regions of both the Castle and Crowsnest Rivers. Following the fire, changes to water quantity and quality were expected, but biologists also wanted to monitor whether changes to fish populations were also occurring. Interestingly, this project began in 2000 with one site on Lost Creek as a preliminary investigation into the status of cutthroat and bull trout. After the 2003 fire, additional sites were established on the Carbondale River, Lynx Creek and Lyons Creek. Since then, fish from these sites are sampled as often as possible (every 1-3 years) to monitor any changes to fish abundance and size. The goal is to monitor how fish populations change over time in streams impacted by Fish abundance index site on Lost Creek. Photo—K. Neufeld. wildfire. The project will help determine how wildfire may affect fish species such as Cutthroat, Bull and Rainbow Project Lead: Trout residing in these headwater streams of the Oldman Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and Watershed. Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Partner: Alberta Conservation Association
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 25
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to Ongoing
MONITORING BULL TROUT SPAWNING In 2012, biologists with Alberta Environment and ACTIVITY, DISTRIBUTION AND ABUNDANCE Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD) continued monitoring spawning activity of Bull Trout in the upper IN THE UPPER OLDMAN RIVER DRAINAGE Oldman River drainage. Bull Trout abundance and distribution were assessed by using a combination of trapping, mark-recapture and spawning surveys in a comprehensive project by the Alberta Conservation Association from 2007-2010. During this time period, traps were installed on the four main spawning tributaries Bull Trout use in this drainage: Racehorse Creek, Dutch Creek, Hidden Creek and the Livingstone River. 292 migratory Bull Trout were trapped and tagged, 78% of which were caught in the Hidden Creek trap. Spawning surveys revealed that most redds (trout nests) were built in Hidden Creek, and confirmed that Hidden Creek is the primary spawning tributary used by Bull Trout and is significant for this species’ survival. In 2011, ESRD implemented a long-term project that continued to monitor spawning activity in the drainage, and focused Spawning Bull Trout in the Upper Livingstone River. Photo—W. Warnock. trapping efforts on Hidden Creek. Results continue to show that the majority of migratory Bull Trout use Hidden Project Lead: Creek as the primary spawning tributary in the Upper Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and Oldman River drainage; however, Bull Trout spawning Sustainable Resource Development) activity in other nearby streams has also been observed, and redds built by smaller, non-migratory Bull Trout have Project Partner: been found in the Livingstone River. Bull Trout Alberta Conservation Association distribution and abundance continue to be monitored by ESRD and volunteer anglers by tagging and recapturing Project Funding Source: tagged fish throughout the watershed. This work has also Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource documented long distance movements of these fish Development within and between the three major rivers upstream of the Oldman Reservoir. This long-term monitoring project will collect data on the health of the Bull Trout population in the Oldman River drainage, and aid in management of the species.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 26
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to Ongoing
WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING IN In 2011, Alberta Environmental and Sustainable WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT Resource Development began monitoring water temperature in streams inhabited by genetically pure STREAMS Westslope Cutthroat Trout. Water temperature is likely a factor influencing the invasion of non-native Rainbow Trout in Westslope Cutthroat Trout streams. Ten temperature loggers were placed in 5 streams in 2011 and 18 loggers were placed in 16 streams in 2012. Loggers were strategically placed to capture temperature differences between stream segments known to contain pure cutthroat populations and zones of hybridization located downstream of the pure sites. Data was collected only during the summer and fall months with the goal of identifying maximum water temperatures and maximum daily average water temperatures. Initial observations indicate streams with pure populations are typically cooler and several appeared to be highly influenced by groundwater input. Given that many of the genetically pure populations are not protected by any physical barrier Stream temperature monitoring site on Gardiner Creek. Photo—K. Neufeld. to upstream fish movement, the continued monitoring of both water temperature and the genetic integrity of the Project Lead: population will provide valuable insight into the role water Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and temperature plays in Rainbow Trout invasion in Sustainable Resource Development) Westslope Cutthroat Trout streams.
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 27
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2006 to Ongoing
REMNANT WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT Since 2006, Alberta Environment and Sustainable TROUT POPULATION INVENTORY FOR Resource Development, Fish and Wildlife Division has been taking the first steps towards recovery of native SOUTHERN ALBERTA Westslope Cutthroat Trout populations by determining the location, distribution and abundance of pure fish in the headwaters of the South Saskatchewan River Basin. Westslope Cutthroat Trout are listed as a threatened species under the provincial Wildlife Act and are recommended for a similar listing under the federal Species at Risk Act. The trout are a highly regarded sportfish because of their surface feeding tendencies and willingness to take flies. This species commonly mates with Rainbow Trout, an exotic species that is not native to most of Alberta, including the Oldman Watershed. The resulting hybrid offspring go on to mate with pure fish in subsequent generations, further reducing the abundance of pure fish populations. The first phase of this project involved a pre-field literature and map review to identify steams lacking current fisheries data. Specific sites were Electrofishing in Allison Creek. Photo – K. Neufeld. then selected and prioritized based on where stream conditions were suitable for Westslope Cutthroat Trout. At Project Leads: these sites, fish were sampled using a backpack Jennifer Earle (Alberta Environment and electrofisher to determine species composition, Sustainable Resource Development) abundance, and tissue samples were collected to Matthew Coombs (Alberta Environment and genetically determine whether cutthroat trout populations Sustainable Resource Development) are pure or hybridized. A broader regional study was Project Partners: conducted to gather information on fish population Interior Reforestation Co. Ltd (Cranbrook, BC) estimates, abundance and population distribution and Eric Taylor (University of British Columbia) conduct barrier surveys. This project has collected Parks Canada Agency important data that has been used to create a recovery Sean Rogers and John Mee (University of Calgary) plan for Westslope Cutthroat Trout and has resulted catch- Alberta Conservation Association and-release angling regulation changes being Project Funding Sources: implemented for 2013 in areas of the watershed where Trout Unlimited Canada genetically pure Westslope Cutthroat Trout occur. This will Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada help conserve this precious southern Albertan trout Devon Canada Corporation species for future generations. Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 28
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
NUTRIENT ASSESSMENT – FRANK LAKE, In 2012, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource TWIN VALLEY RESERVOIR Development Southern Region sampled water discharging from Frank Lake. The discharge flows into the Little Bow River and then further downstream into the Twin Valley Reservoir. The purpose was to determine whether this discharged water is affecting water supplies for downstream communities. Nutrient rich water may cause excessive growth of algae and photosynthetic bacteria (cyanobacteria). In some situations these plants and bacteria grow quickly and congregate, taking over the surface of the water and creating a phenomenon called blooms. When the Frank Lake project was planned in the 1980’s as an effluent treatment option for Cargill and the Town of High River, it was assumed that it would discharge infrequently. With rainfall patterns in recent decades and increased discharge of treated wastewater from the various sources, Frank Lake now discharges in the Twin Valley Reservoir, during May-Aug most years. Sampling the Frank Lake outflow into the Little Bow River. Photo – Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. This may be affecting water supplies for downstream users. In 2013 as per in 2012, ESRD are collecting biweekly to monthly (April to September) samples of Project Leads: Frank Lake outflow from each of Basins 1, 2 and 3 and Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and combined influent. Samples in 2013 will be analyzed for Sustainable Resource Development) nutrients, major ions, physical conditions, pathogens and Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and mercury. Some sediment analysis will also occur. This Sustainable Resource Development) sampling will provide a better understanding of the impact
of discharge water from Frank Lake downstream and help Project Partner: managers manage the Frank Lake, Little Bow system. Cathy Ryan (University of Calgary) The intent is to find ways to improve water quality
treatment within Frank Lake. Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 29
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
BASELINE WATER QUALITY DATA- Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource SOUTHERN LAKES AND RESERVOIRS Development (ESRD) is collecting water quality data in lakes and reservoirs in southern Alberta. Many lakes and reservoirs in this area have not been sampled for 10 to 30 years. ESRD is working to update this data and have a better understanding of water quality in these water bodies. Every year ESRD prioritizes which water bodies will be sampled. The goals of this sampling are to either solely collect baseline data or evaluate whether a change in water quality has occurred in the water body. Each year ESRD monitors approximately 6 locations (selected each year in the spring), 3 to 4 times each during the summer months. At each location, a composite sample is taken, as well as a depth profile for temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity and pH. This allows ESRD to generate data for key indicators in the reservoirs such as nutrients, major ions, physical conditions, productivity, pathogens and cyanobacteria. This monitoring is Collecting water quality data on the Oldman Reservoir. Photo - Alberta Environment and Sustain- able Resource Development important because it provides knowledge about southern Alberta’s water supply, which benefits informed decision making to conserve and protect healthy aquatic Project Leads: ecosystems and safe drinking water supplies. Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 30
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS – PHYSICAL Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource CONDITIONS – SOUTHERN RIVERS Development is monitoring physical conditions of the southern Rivers in Alberta (Bow, Red Deer, Oldman and Milk rivers) to establish baseline data, assess trends and contribute to cumulative effects management. Monitoring varies from year to year but includes continuous water temperature, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity and pH at select locations. This project also monitors macrophyte abundance at 8 sites on the Oldman River. The Southern Region, Science and Planning Team of Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development has undertaken significant efforts to pursue water quality modelling and this data supports their modelling work. In addition, water temperature data is collected for fisheries managers of the Government of Alberta and Non-governmental organizations to better understand East Slopes streams that experience sport fishing pressure during the summer. Sampling physical conditions during the winter. Photo – Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.
Project Leads: Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 31
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2008 to Ongoing
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS – UPPER OLDMAN Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource TRIBUTARIES Development (ESRD) has expanded its water quality sampling into the upper tributaries of the Oldman Watershed. The upper tributaries are critical headwater areas in the Oldman Watershed. These upper tributaries generate the majority of downstream stream flow and provide water to low lying semi-arid regions of the watershed. Water quality in many tributaries of the Oldman Watershed is unknown and there is a need for basin wide data in order to support Cumulative Effects initiatives. Baseline water quality data is needed for the protection of these headwater areas, especially with proposed land use activities (e.g. magnetite mine) in these areas. ESRD collected monthly water samples in Connelly, Todd, Cow, Trout, Dutch, Racehorse, Drywood and Yarrow creek and the Livingston River from April 2008 to March 2009, and resumed again April 2011. The key indicators that are monitored include nutrients, major Oldman River above Livingstone River looking downstream. Photo – Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. ions, physical conditions, productivity, pathogens and metals. This data will help contribute to developing Water Quality Objectives for the upper Oldman tributaries, as Project Leads: well as initiate a baseline for a tributary that may be Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and subject to impacts from land use activities Sustainable Resource Development) Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 32
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
LONG-TERM RIVER NETWORK – SOUTHERN Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource ALBERTA RIVERS Development (ESRD) is responsible for monitoring and archiving river water quality of Alberta Rivers. River systems provide diverse habitat and water supply for aquatic life, wildlife and humans. Human activities such as urban and rural development, resource extraction, industry, agriculture and recreation all influence water quality in Alberta’s river systems. In the mid 1900’s, Environment Canada established components of the Long-Term River Network (LTRN), as a means of monitoring changes in river water quality over time. In 1987, ESRD assumed responsibility for all LTRN monitoring stations in the Province. Since that time, the network has expanded to include 29 stations on 11 rivers. The southern Alberta component of the LTRN includes stations on the Bow, Elbow, Oldman, South Saskatchewan and Milk Rivers. There are three LTRN sites on the Oldman River, namely, the Oldman River Ray Walker at the Highway 3, Oldman River Long-Term River Network site. Photo - Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. near Brocket, the Oldman River at Hwy 3 in Lethbridge, and the Oldman River at Hwy 36 by Taber. ESRD sample these rivers monthly for a variety of variables such as Project Leads: physical parameters, nutrients, major ions, metals, Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and pesticides and bacteria. Although many of these Sustainable Resource Development) parameters naturally influence surface waters, several Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and may be impacted by human activities. Monitoring stations Sustainable Resource Development) are generally situated upstream and downstream of areas
of significant human activity. Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 33
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to Ongoing
TRIBUTARY MONITORING FOR WATER Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource QUALITY OBJECTIVES DEVELOPMENT – Development started a monitoring project in 2011 to develop Water Quality Objectives (WQO’s) for the main OLDMAN WATERSHED tributaries of major rivers in southern Alberta. Within the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan under the Land-use Framework, a major initiative was to create a Water Quality Management Framework and in this framework develop Water Quality Objectives for the mainstem reaches of the major rivers in the south. WQO's may be needed for upper reaches and tributaries of our mainstem rivers in the future. Monitoring is taking place in the Oldman River above the Oldman reservoir, the lower Crowsnest, Castle, Belly and St. Mary Rivers. Water quality parameters include nutrients, major ions, bacteria, physical conditions and productivity.
Belly River. Photo - Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.
Project Leads: Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 34
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to Ongoing
WATERSHED PLANNING ADVISORY This project is the result of the recognition of a knowledge COUNCIL SUPPORT—OLDMAN gap after the release of the Oldman State of the Watershed Report in 2010 and coincides with the 2010 WATERSHED COUNCIL—CASTLE RIVER approval of the C5 Forest Management Plan. To better WATER QUALITY SAMPLING understand the effects of recreational use and forestry practices in the Oldman Watershed Headwaters, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD) are working towards developing a water quality baseline in the Castle River area. Three monitoring locations on the Castle River (below it’s confluences with; the West Castle River, Carbondale River, and Beaver Mines Creek) have been chosen. Each monitoring site is sampled monthly for nutrients, major ions, physical conditions, pathogens, and metals by the ESRD monitoring staff. The Castle River Water Quality Sampling Project also coincides with the Upper Oldman Tributary Project (see Directory: Kromrey). Together, these projects will provide an enhanced understanding of non-point source impacts on water quality allowing better implementation of a cumulative effects management Castle River. Photo—Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. approach. This project will produce water quality information in an area where there has not been previous Project Lead: studies. Study results will be made available to the public Natalie Kromrey (Alberta Environment and and can be used to make future land use management Sustainable Resource Development) decisions.
Project Partner: Katie Burles (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 35
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
ALBERTA RIVER BASINS - HYDROMETRIC The Monitoring, Data, and Validation Branch of Alberta AND METEOROLOGICAL DATA Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD) are responsible for monitoring and validating MONITORING AND VALIDATION IN THE hydrometric (water) and meteorological (weather) data in OLDMAN RIVER SUB BASIN the Oldman River sub basin of the South Saskatchewan River Basin. ESRD has a variety of data networks that collect detailed measurements of river flows and levels, precipitation data, lake and reservoir levels, snow data and meteorological data. A large portion of this data is available online in near real-time. The long term data set is managed by the Monitoring, Data, and Validation Branch who have procedures for collecting, reporting, and validating this data in order to ensure consistency. This data set is used by a variety of organizations to make important management decisions about water related issues in the Oldman Watershed. The data set is important for managing water storage in reservoirs and ensuring enough water for agriculture and healthy aquatic environments in the Oldman Watershed. Having a long term hydrometric and meteorological data monitoring Snow surveys in the Oldman Watershed headwaters. Photo - Alberta Environment and Sustaina- ble Resource Development program in Alberta is also very important to predict and manage extreme weather events to better prepare Project Leads: Albertans for conditions such as flooding and drought. Salina Perry (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Scott Campbell (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Project Funding Source: Mark Potvin (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Resource Development) Development Katie Burles (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) Project Partners: Water Survey of Canada Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development - Water Management Operations Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Waterton Lakes and Glacier National Park United States Department of Agriculture
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://environment.alberta.ca/apps/basins/default.aspx?Basin=10 Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected]
36
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2008 to 2015
LAKEWATCH A number of Alberta’s most popular and heavily used lakes are regularly monitored as part of the provincial LakeWatch Program. Contracted by the provincial government, the Alberta Lake Management Society (ALMS) samples twenty different provincial park lakes on a 4 year cycle, which generates long-term water quality data. Beauvais Lake, which is located in the Foothills sub basin in the Oldman Watershed, is part of this ongoing monitoring program. With some of the oldest Douglas Firs in the province, stunning montane landscapes, and great fishing opportunities, Beauvais Lake Provincial Park is a popular recreation destination in southwestern Alberta. First sampled in 1984 as part of the Provincial Parks Lakes Monitoring Program, Beauvais Lake’s water quality continues to be monitored to collect data which may be used to evaluate and identify trends in water quality and alert stakeholders of impacts to Beauvais Lake. From Beauvais Lake 2012. Photo—E. Rodger. June through September 2012, ALMS with the assistance of park staff, sampled water quality parameters in Beauvais Lake. Sampling included a profile of the lake at Project Lead: its deepest point which measured dissolved oxygen, Bradley Peter (The Alberta Lake Management temperature, conductivity, redox potential, and pH; as well Society) as physical water samples obtained from ten sites around the lake which were sent to a lab for analysis of nutrients, Project Partners: metals, ions, and toxins. The goal of the program is to Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource collect data which will help describe the current ecological Development health of Beauvais Lake. As lake water quality and Alberta Tourism, Parks, and Recreation watershed health are closely linked, observing changes in the health of Beauvais Lake with time may be indicative of, Project Funding Sources: and help inform, practices occurring in the watershed. In Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource addition, recreational enjoyment of lakes is directly Development influenced by their water quality. Monitoring water quality at Beauvais Lake helps to ensure residents will continue to enjoy the lake and promote a healthy watershed for the future. The lake is scheduled to be sampled again in 2016. To learn more about monitoring your lake or reservoir, contact ALMS.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www.alms.ca Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 37
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to Ongoing
AN EVALUATION OF THE RIPARIAN HEALTH Reduced to less than 20% of its historic range, Westslope Cutthroat Trout, a Threatened species, are now confined OF PRIORITY WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT to a few, isolated headwater reaches in Alberta’s eastern TROUT STREAMS IN ALBERTA’S SOUTH slopes. A key component for maintaining suitable habitat EASTERN SLOPES for this species is the protection of healthy riparian areas. When in a properly functioning condition, riparian areas provide many ecological functions that are beneficial to Westslope Cutthroat Trout. Healthy riparian areas and native riparian vegetation help to stabilize the streambank; create and maintain deep, narrow channels with undercut banks; provide a source of instream woody debris; filter stormwater runoff; provide stream shading and overhead cover from predators; absorb and store water; and provide inputs of terrestrial insects, a food source for trout. Given the importance of riparian areas to this species, maintaining riparian health is a priority for the conservation of Westslope Cutthroat Trout. In 2011 and 2012 Cows and Fish conducted 32 Riparian Health Inventories in foothill and montane streams within the Oldman and Bow River basins. Sites were selected with the assistance of provincial fisheries biologists to determine locations of priority reaches with genetically pure native stocks of Westslope Cutthroat Trout. This baseline riparian health
Westslope Cutthroat Trout Riparian Health Project Photos—(Clockwise from top left): Flat Creek; data will be used to help broaden awareness among Westslope Cutthroat Trout; Oct 18, 2012 Field Day, Todd Creek Headwaters; Feb 29, 2012 various land user groups and land managers about Westslope Cutthroat Trout Stakeholders Workshop, Chain Lakes Provincial Park. Photo—Cows Westslope Cutthroat Trout habitat requirements and and Fish. threats. This study will lend support for the protection of Project Leads: biodiversity and native fisheries in the Oldman watershed. Norine Ambrose (Cows and Fish: Alberta Riparian Improved knowledge of baseline riparian health in priority Habitat Management Society) Westslope Cutthroat Trout habitat is an important first step Project Partners: in driving forward habitat protection and species recovery Matthew Coombs, Jennifer Earle, Jim Stelfox, and efforts. Healthy headwater riparian areas are also Mike Alexander (Alberta Environment and important for helping to protect overall ecological Sustainable Resource Development) functions, including maintaining water quality and quantity Brian Meagher (Trout Unlimited Canada) for downstream users. Mike Uchikura (Alberta Conservation Association) Shane Petry and Sherry Nugent (Fisheries and Oceans Canada) Project Funding Sources—continued: Shelley Humphries (Parks Canada) Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Project Funding Sources: Development Environment Canada Habitat Stewardship Program Cows and Fish Members and Supporters Alberta Conservation Association
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www.cowsandfish.org Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 38
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to Ongoing
STREAMKEEPERS PROGRAM: CROWSNEST Located in the Mountains sub-basin of the Oldman PASS Watershed, Crowsnest River and its tributaries are an important Headwaters river network contributing water to the rest of the Oldman region. Unfortunately, development along the river, increased recreational pressures, and upland disturbances (logging and fire) have contributed to increased sedimentation within the river, spread of invasive plants in riparian areas, reduced water quality, and a change in water supply. To track any changes to river and riparian health, Crowsnest Conservation Society members began the Crowsnest Pass Streamkeepers Program in 2012. The Streamkeepers Program originated in 1995 in British Columbia with the Pacific Streamkeepers Foundation to assist volunteers with stream enhancement projects and provide citizen-science guidelines to track aquatic health. Currently, there are over 150 volunteer Streamkeeper groups across British Columbia and the Yukon. Partnering with Living Lakes Canada, Crowsnest Crowsnest River. Photo—J. Smith. Conservation initiated the first Streamkeepers program in Alberta. Each year, trained volunteers use standardized monitoring protocols and compare the health of the Project Lead: watershed in different areas. Collected information can Crowsnest Conservation Society then be passed to stakeholders, local government and
provincial agencies to direct resources to specific stream Project Partners: enhancement projects in areas of high concern. Ongoing Living Lakes Canada monitoring will be important to gather the information Department of Fisheries and Oceans required to protect and restore local aquatic habitat in
Crowsnest River and its tributaries. Project Funding Source: Alberta Eco-Trust
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www.crowsnestconservation.ca/programs.php?prgm=engage or www.pskf.ca Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 39
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2010 to 2015
MOVEMENT AND HABITAT USE OF LAKE Lake Sturgeon is a unique species present in the Oldman STURGEON IN THE SOUTH Watershed. Their large size and distinctive appearance makes the species a favourite for anglers. Unfortunately, SASKATCHEWAN RIVER BASIN Lake Sturgeon in the Saskatchewan River Basin have been identified as Endangered by the Committee for the Status of Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) and are under consideration for listing under the federal Species at Risk Act. In Alberta, Lake Sturgeon are classified as Threatened under the Wildlife Act and At Risk in the General Status of Alberta Wild Species Report. To increase knowledge and conservation efforts for this species, Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, are currently gathering information on Lake Sturgeon population size, seasonal movement patterns, and the identification of critical habitat, such as spawning grounds, feeding areas, and overwintering sites. Using acoustic telemetry, coded tags have been implanted into 123 Lake Sturgeon from parts of the Oldman River from between the Oldman Dam to where the Oldman River Lake Sturgeon caught in the Oldman River at Lethbridge in May of 2011. The movement patterns of Lake Sturgeon in the South Saskatchewan River Basin, including the Oldman River, are being joins the Bow River to form the South Saskatchewan studied in order to aid conservation of this threatened species. Pictured: Eztiaan Groenewald River. This portion of the Oldman River flows through Fort (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) and Christine Lacho (University of Lethbridge). Photo—T. Clayton. Macleod, Lethbridge and Taber. In order to track the fish, receivers have been placed in the Oldman, Belly, St. Project Leads: Mary, Bow, Red Deer and South Saskatchewan Rivers. Shane Petry (Department of Fisheries and Oceans When a fish is in the vicinity of a receiver, the date, time Canada) and tag number are recorded. Some receivers remain in Terry Clayton (Alberta Environment and Sustainable the river year-round, while others are removed for the Resource Development) winter in order to avoid damage by ice. In addition, in Project Partners: order to study habitat use, a portion of the Oldman, Bow Doug Watkinson (Department of Fisheries and and South Saskatchewan Rivers were mapped using Oceans Canada) sonar in the summer of 2012 in order to determine Christine Lacho (University of Lethbridge) underwater depth and bottom substrate type. Through Project Funding Sources: understanding Lake Sturgeon movement patterns and the Canadian Wildlife Federation location of critical habitat, researchers will be able to Natural Sciences and Engineering Research identify areas that require protection to assist in the Council of Canada conservation of this Endangered species.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 40
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2007 to Ongoing
FOOTHILLS STREAM CROSSINGS The headwaters of the Oldman Watershed are home to PROGRAM many stream systems that contain sensitive aquatic habitat for fish species, particularly threatened native fish species such as the Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout. Devon recognized the sensitivity of these stream systems and developed a way for the company to improve the overall quality of aquatic habitat in their operating areas, while reducing operational risk. Since 2007, Devon Canada Corporation initiated a collaborative aquatic protection program to improve the company’s stream crossings in the headwaters of the Oldman Watershed. Beginning with creating an inventory of Devon’s stream crossings (e.g. roads, pipelines, phone lines), Devon developed a crossing database and map. Each crossing was then prioritized according to a risk matrix. Crossings that were defined as high-priority were enhanced and rehabilitated to improve aquatic habitat. Stream crossings are dynamic and are regularly re- Erosion control measures downstream of habitat enhancement work. Bottom R. shows a bridge that replaced a culvert to improve movement of cutthroat trout. Photo - R. Boyce. assessed to confirm their condition. Devon chose to use the Foothills Stream Crossing Partnership (FSCP) to Project Lead: complete the stream crossing reassessment in 2012. Robert Boyce (Devon Canada Corporation) Devon has been involved with the FSCP since its inception and felt that this multi stakeholder group Project Partners: provides an excellent service in this regard by involving Foothills Stream Crossing Partnership various industries and government agencies. The Alberta Conservation Association Partnership is an independent, industry driven program Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource focused primarily on improving the management of Development stream crossings in the foothills. Through crossing Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada inspections, regional issues linked to sedimentation, Trout Unlimited Canada safety and fish movement are documented for the Crowsnest Conservation Society purposes of maintaining crossings.
Project Funding Source: Devon Canada Corporation
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 41
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2013
WATER QUALITY OF STORM WATER The City of Lethbridge is the largest, urban centre located OUTFALLS IN THE CITY OF LETHBRIDGE in the Oldman Watershed on the banks of the Oldman River. With over 100,000 people accessing water resources and living in this region, there are concerns that contaminants from urban areas are flowing into the Oldman River via storm water outfalls. Researchers from Lethbridge College and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada are investigating the presence of pesticides, bacteria and nutrients in storm water outfalls to assess the urban contribution to the overall water quality of the Oldman River. A number of pesticides are used for residential, recreational, and commercial use to maintain aesthetic, green spaces. With each precipitation event, surface run- off easily picks up existing contaminants, such as pesticides/herbicides, fecal bacteria and fertilizers (nutrients), which enter the storm sewer system and discharge into the river. From April to September 2012, researchers began analyzing water samples collected City of Lethbridge storm sewer located along the Oldman River greenspace. Photo—J. Derksen. monthly at nine storm water outfalls throughout the city for the presence of 100 pesticides, select bacteria, and nutrients. This research will bring more awareness on the Project Leads: types and amounts of pesticides and fertilizers that are John Derksen (Lethbridge College) used in the city and help decision-makers and community
members understand how these and fecal contaminants Project Partner: can influence downstream river water quality. Claudia Sheedy (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Denise Nilsson (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Doug Inglis (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
Project Funding Sources: Oldman Watershed Council
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 42
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 1999 to Ongoing
LONG-TERM GROUNDWATER MONITORING Since 1999, researchers and students from Lethbridge AT LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE College have developed a detailed groundwater monitoring study to assess the spatial and temporal relationship between groundwater levels and quality in response to precipitation, temperature, and air pressure. Beginning as a field supplement to the College’s Environmental Assessment and Restoration Program, hydrogeology students have contributed to this ongoing intensive, small-scale study located within the upper glacial tills on the Lethbridge College campus. Alberta Environment installed the first campus water monitoring wells in 1988. Since then, the program has expanded to seventeen wells and continues to grow each year. Every fall, students gain hands-on, groundwater monitoring experience by drilling and installing an additional observation well as part of the their field studies using the college’s portable rotary drilling equipment. Water level measurements, water quality sampling, and aquifer (bail) Lethbridge College Environmental Assessment and Restoration students drilling a new observa- tests are performed regularly on the expanding network of tion well on campus using the college’s portable rotary drill rig, as part of their hydrogeology studies. Photo - Lethbridge College. on-campus monitoring wells to provide a long-term database of groundwater fluctuations. In addition to point Project Lead: measurements and well sampling, a pressure transducer Brian Meller (Lethbridge College) and data logger on one of the monitoring wells records water levels every two hours. This data is then paired with Project Funding Source: simultaneous weather data from Environment Canada to Lethbridge College monitor correlations between measured water quantity and real-time weather events. Researchers also assess the spatial distribution of ions within the groundwater and identify patterns and changes to those patterns through time. Since the project’s inception, this initiative has provided the opportunity for practical groundwater monitoring training for college students and the shared data has been valuable for local government, provincial government agencies and consultants studying water table fluctuations, development planning and drainage management.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 43
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2010 to 2015
YEAR-ROUND MONITORING OF CHLORIDE From 2010 to 2015, a researcher at the Lethbridge CONCENTRATIONS IN THE OLDMAN RIVER College is attempting to figure out to what extent the application of de-icing chemicals affect the Oldman River BASIN WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON THE water quality, particularly the section of the river that EFFECTS OF DE-ICING CHEMICALS ON passes through the municipal section of Lethbridge. SURFACE WATER QUALITY Canada experiences long winter seasons, which can result in dangerous roads. Applying road de-icers (salt) is a quick and effective way to deal with icy road conditions through site- and event-specific combinations with other approaches such as sanding and plowing. When the snow melts during Chinook events (warm winds) or in the spring, road salts could potentially be carried with the melted water to the rivers. Very few studies have looked at chloride (salt) concentrations in natural rivers as a result of using de-icing chemicals on roadways. In the field, water samples are collected at four locations along the Oldman River that drain municipal and roadway effluent. Water pooling in roadside areas are also sampled during mid- winter melting events. In the lab, samples are analysed for several chemical and physical parameters. The researcher then uses statistical analyses to examine the spatial and temporal pattern in chloride concentrations in the Justin Loran (left) and Blaine Laqua (right) are making some in situ measurements of chemical water quality parameters. Photo - N.Liu. municipal district of Oldman River. Preliminary results have revealed that the addition of road salts during Project Lead: snowing events, followed by snowmelt, have contributed Neil Liu (Lethbridge College) to a pattern of higher chloride concentrations at sample locations during the winter season. This research could Project Funding Source: shed a light on short and long-term impacts of de-icing Lethbridge College salts from urbanized corridors on water quality of chloride- receiving water bodies. The researchers believe that providing a scientific basis for decision-makers to implement good management practices could reduce the impact of road salt application on the Oldman Watershed while maintaining safe driving conditions for its road users.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected]
Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 44
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY Municipalities in Alberta sample the quantity and quality of SAMPLING BY MUNICIPALITIES IN THE raw water entering drinking water treatment facilities and water released back into the river from wastewater OLDMAN WATERSHED treatment facilities. Water use in Alberta is regulated by FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: your local Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource municipalities water and wastewater treatment facility Development under the Water Act and the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA). Under the Water OR VISIT: Government of Alberta, Environment and Act, every municipality is required to monitor, measure and Sustainable Resource Development, Authorization/ report the volume of raw water diverted from the river for Approvals viewer for approvals, licences, registrations the drinking water treatment plant, and the volume of and permits issued under the Water Act and domestic wastewater returned back to the river via the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act: wastewater treatment plant. EPEA approves drinking water http://environment.alberta.ca/01519.html and wastewater treatment facilities and outlines the water quality monitoring requirements of each individual facility. Public access to Approvals and Codes of Practice information for each municipal facility in Alberta (including the Oldman Watershed) is available online on the Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Authorization and Approval viewer website. The water quality monitoring, measuring and reporting varies for each individual municipality depending on the requirements of their EPEA approval. Most drinking water treatment facilities will sample raw water entering the treatment process and measure parameters such as turbidity (cloudiness of a fluid caused by individual particles), pH and temperature. Wastewater treatment facilities, prior to discharging treated water into the river, are required to measure water quality parameters. The City of Lethbridge, for example, tests treated wastewater for parameters such as carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (used as an indicator of the pollutant removal from wastewater), total suspended solids, phosphorus, ammonia, nitrogen, total coliforms, faecal coliforms, electric conductivity, sodium absorption ration and pH. Water quantity and quality sampling by municipalities not only satisfies their regulatory requirements, it helps to ensure residents have quality drinking water and enforce the protection, enhancement and wise use of the aquatic environment. Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012 Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected]
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to Ongoing
CROWSNEST PASS RIPARIAN A unique partnership between the Municipality of RESTORATION PROGRAM Crowsnest Pass and a local conservation group, Crowsnest Conservation Society, has formed to restore riparian health along waterbodies in the Crowsnest River sub basin. Located in the headwaters region of the Oldman Watershed, project partners have developed a non-chemical approach to managing invasive plants in riparian areas due to the sensitive nature of the land adjacent to waterways. Healthy riparian areas provide nesting cover and foraging opportunities for wildlife, support aquatic species biodiversity, increase water quality, offer recreation and tourism opportunities, reduce erosion and sediment-load, and minimize flood damage. Riparian invasive plant distribution was first quantified in 2011 through an unbiased sampling method developed by Cows & Fish to create a detailed baseline. In subsequent years, invasive plant infestations are tracked to monitor project successes and to identify priority zones. Each Transplanting event in Flumerfelt Park in Coleman, AB. October 18, 2012. Photo—K. Lutz. year, the Municipality focuses resources to these priority areas through hand pulling weeds, transplanting native Project Lead: shrubs and trees and seeding native grasses with the Kim Lutz (Municipality of Crowsnest Pass) assistance of their Riparian Restoration Technicians. A Project Partners: large component of this program is enabling the Judy Cooke (Crowsnest Conservation Society) community to participate in caring for their riparian areas. Merilyn Liddell (Crowsnest Conservation Society) Workshops provide invasive plant identification training, Norine Ambrose (Cows & Fish) techniques for effective weed extraction, and bio- Kristi Adair (Cows & Fish) engineering practice. In addition, the community Kelly Cooley (Southern Alberta Weed Coordinator) participates in regular weed-pulling events. Not only do the Oldman Watershed Council weed-pull events reduce the amount of chemical that enter Trout Unlimited the waterways, they remove large amounts of invasive Project Funding Sources: plants and educate citizens on the need to promote Alberta Conservation Association riparian health. Removing invasive plants and Oldman Watershed Council transplanting native cover along the rivers and creeks in Land Stewardship Center Crowsnest Pass will increase riparian health not only in Cows & Fish the Crowsnest Pass sub basin, but also further downstream in the Oldman Watershed. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] or VISIT: http://www.town.crowsnestpass.ab.ca/protective-a-community-services/weed- control or http://www.crowsnestconservation.ca/programs.php?prgm=engage Summary Completed 2012 Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 46
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2013
CROWSNEST WATERSHED AQUIFER The Oldman Watershed Council is leading a groundwater MAPPING AND GROUNDWATER study in the Crowsnest River Sub-basin to better understand groundwater and its connection to surface MANAGEMENT PLANNING STUDY water. This one-year project is similar to the Willow Creek Aquifer Mapping and Groundwater Management Planning Study (see Directory: Oldman Watershed Council) that was completed in 2012 by Waterline Resources Inc. All available groundwater data for the area is being compiled and analyzed. Limited field work has been completed to verify water levels in wells, complete a routine chemical analyses and take a GPS location of wells. Aquifers will be mapped and characterized, groundwater quantity and recharge will be estimated and groundwater quality will be summarized. Groundwater data gaps will be identified and a monitoring plan will be suggested. Many towns and rural residents rely on groundwater for their daily needs and the demand for groundwater is likely to increase in the Oldman Watershed as the population and development expands. In order to manage groundwater effectively and Crowsnest River Sub-basin Map. Image—Government of Alberta. address potential risks to watershed health, an understanding of groundwater and its connection to Project Lead: surface water is critical. Oldman Watershed Council Project Partners: Waterline Resources Inc. Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Alberta Health Alberta Health Services Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Lethbridge College Community volunteers Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Alberta Irrigation Projects Association
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://oldmanbasin.org/index.php/publications/ Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 47
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2013 to 2014
THE INVESTIGATION OF HIGH NITROGEN Rural well owners throughout the Oldman Watershed can CONCENTRATIONS IN WATER WELLS NEAR have a chemical analysis done on their drinking water through local health centers. A number of well owners FORT MACLEOD south of Fort Macleod noticed their well water had nitrate levels that exceed the Maximum Acceptable Concentrations for drinking water as outlined in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. Drinking water with elevated nitrates is a well-defined health risk, especially for infants, and pregnant women. After an initial survey by Alberta Health Services (AHS) staff confirmed that the problem was not a localized septic system or manure storage issue, they requested the Oldman Watershed Science Team investigate the groundwater nitrate issues further. The Oldman Watershed Council is overseeing a project to further study groundwater nitrate levels in the area, to determine potential nitrate sources and if applicable, recommend strategies to improve water quality for local residents. Results and methodology will be shared with local residents, other stakeholders and Improper well construction. Photo—Oldman Watershed Council. watershed councils. It is important to understand and monitor groundwater so that it can be managed well for Project Lead: multiple uses. Oldman Watershed Council
Project Partners: Landwise Inc. (Consultant) Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Alberta Health Services Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Community Volunteers Lethbridge College University of Calgary
Project Funding Source: Alberta Health through the Water for Life Strategy
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: oldmanbasin.org Summary Completed 2013
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2012
WILLOW CREEK WATERSHED AQUIFER Groundwater is an important resource. Many towns and MAPPING AND GROUNDWATER rural residents within the Oldman Watershed rely on groundwater from wells for drinking water and daily needs. MANAGEMENT PLANNING STUDY The Oldman Watershed Council and Waterline Resources Inc. recently completed a study of the Willow Creek watershed, to better understand groundwater aquifers and their connection to surface water. Researchers compiled existing information to paint a preliminary picture of what groundwater resources exist, what is the groundwater quality, what is the geology of the region, how is groundwater connected to surface water and how much groundwater is being used. Through mapping the geological formations that form underground aquifers, the study showed that estimated recharge is greater than current use. In addition to understanding groundwater quantity, researchers focused on groundwater quality by identifying potential sources for groundwater contamination. Located in a transition zone between mountains and agricultural lands, the Willow Creek region Willow Creek watershed map. Image—Government of Alberta. has many land uses including ranching, crop production, irrigation reservoirs, oil and gas development, confined Project Lead: feeding operations and recreation. In recent years, Oldman Watershed Council concern has risen that nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal coliforms and total suspended solids exceed guidelines Project Partners: some of the time. Research results indicated that the Waterline Resources Inc. quality of groundwater varies depending on the geology of Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource the region and the relationship to adjacent surface water Development quality. To further understand groundwater supply and Alberta Health Services eliminate groundwater knowledge gaps, Waterline Lethbridge College recommended a long-term monitoring plan, changes to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada how groundwater wells are tracked by the Government of Community volunteers Alberta and an education program. These results are the Project Funding Source: first step to understanding and managing this critical Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource resource. Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://oldmanbasin.org/index.php/publications/ Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 49
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2013
HEADWATERS INDICATORS PROJECT Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) and project partners have recently completed a 5 month study focused on evaluating and reporting key indicators of watershed integrity for the Headwaters area of the Oldman Watershed. Project outcomes will be used by the OWC to assess current watershed integrity of the headwaters; show where stewardship action and protection is needed; educate the public about the health of headwaters; and provide a scientific foundation for the development of the Headwaters Action Plan – a collaborative stewardship initiative with key stakeholders to maintain and protect source waters and headwaters in the Oldman watershed. Using a Criteria & Indicators conceptual framework, researchers assessed current conditions in the watershed based on watershed integrity, biological diversity, surface water quality, and water levels and flows. Project results indicate that there are varying levels of risk across the Headwaters Region. In many Headwaters sub-watersheds there is a Moderate to High Risk due to linear features. Stream-flow indicators demonstrated that there is general pattern of declining total flow magnitude and the initial Headwaters Indicators Project area. Image—Oldman Watershed Council. date of spring melt is occurring earlier in the year in many sub-watersheds. Overall, the project provides a Project Leads: preliminary large-scale overview of the hydrological Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) condition and various human land-use factors that impacts OWC Integrated Watershed Management Plan the ecological condition of the watershed. Note: the Team and Indicators Team Headwaters Indicators Project should not be considered a Project Consultant: definitive statement on the condition of the Headwater Fiera Biological Consulting Ltd. region, but rather, a starting point for further management, research and monitoring action. Project Partner: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
Project Funding Source: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www.oldmanwatershedpriorities.org Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 50
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2013
ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF This is a multi-agency project, led by Dr. Ed Topp of ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS ASSOCIATED Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) that has been funded under the SAGES (Sustainable Agri- WITH AGRICULTURAL ORGANIC Environmental Systems) Initiative. The Laboratory for FERTILIZERS OF ANIMALS, POULTRY AND Foodborne Zoonoses in Lethbridge is working with AAFC HUMAN ORIGIN and its partners to determine the relative significance of agriculture versus other sources (wildlife, human) of fecal Project Leads: water pollution at the watershed scale in the Oldman Ed Topp (Agricultural and Agri-Food Canada) Watershed. Southwestern Alberta has very intensive Vic Gannon (Public Health Agency of Canada) livestock and poultry operations in close proximity to Wendell Koning (Alberta Environment) rivers and water bodies. Pathogens from these
operations can enter the water of these rivers and water Project Partners: bodies and create water quality issues. This five year Julie Brassard (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) project is working to better understand the human health Alain Houde (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) risk from pathogens (namely, Salmonella ssp. and E. coli David Lapen (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) O157:H7) from Canadian livestock and poultry production Martin Lanthier (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) systems in the Oldman Watershed. Researchers are Tineke Jones (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) collecting bi weekly water samples throughout the spring, Doug Inglis (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) summer and fall from 10 different sites within the Oldman Tim McAllister (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Watershed. Samples will be filtered and analyzed for the Eduardo Taboada (Public Health Agency of presence of these pathogens. If pathogens are present in Canada) any of the samples, the research team will determine the Katerina Pintar (Public Health Agency of Canada) concentration of these pathogens so that this information Tom Edge (Environment Canada) may be used to help assess the level of risk to human Norm Neumann (Alberta Health) health in these water bodies. The researchers will also Luke Masson (National Research Council) use advanced genetic methods to try and identify the Cecily Flemming (Ontario Ministry of the sources and determine the public health significance of Environment) these pathogens. In addition, the relationship between
pathogen content and land use, climate and hydrological Project Funding Sources: drivers will be evaluated. This data will be used to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - Sustainable develop a more robust pathogen risk model to predict risk Agriculture Environmental Systems (SAGES) to human health from fecal water pollution from human Collaborating Laboratories and animal waste. This research project will be useful for developing management strategies to reduce the risk of fecal contamination of water in the Oldman Watershed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 51
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2013
GREYWATER REUSE PILOT PROJECT Throughout the Oldman Watershed, potable water is used everyday for drinking water, washing, and flushing toilets. If greywater was collected from hand-washing basins and showers, cleaned on-site, and reused for flushing toilets and irrigation, water consumption could be reduced by 30%. By conserving water, the impact is reduced on the watershed: potable drinking water is saved and the cost to municipalities for drinking water treatment and waste water treatment is lowered. Sego Industries and project partners are working on a new Alberta technology to promote the reuse of greywater in buildings through an on- site project demonstration. Located at Southern Alberta Bible Camp, Sego Industries has designed, built and installed an online monitored treatment facility that collects and reuses greywater. A multi-media filter, ultra-filter, ultraviolet (UV) phase and chlorination system treats greywater collected from camp hand-washing basins and Greywater treatment system. Photo – B. Watson. showers and monitors near real-time water quality parameters. After treatment, the greywater is pumped Project Lead: back into the waste stream until sufficient water quality Becky Watson (Sego Industries) data is attained to demonstrate that the technology works and to assure human health is not at risk. Currently, Project Partners: Alberta Municipal Affairs and the Alberta Plumbing Codes Sego Industries do not allow treated greywater to be brought back into Southern Alberta Bible Camp buildings for reuse. Researchers are working with these Canadian Clear Water Technologies Inc. stakeholders to demonstrate that successful technology is Stakeholders Group available and safe to obtain a deviation of code. If a Water Shield Inc. deviation is obtained, greywater reuse plants could be installed throughout the province to allow greywater to be Project Funding Sources: reused for toilet and urinal flushing and potable drinking Sego Industries water can be conserved. National Research Council
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 52
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2008 to Ongoing
DRYWOOD CREEK WATERSHED RENEWAL Trout Unlimited Canada (TUC) and local partners have PROGRAM developed the Drywood Creek Watershed Renewal Program to restore habitat and connectivity for fish within the watershed. The primary aim of this project is to assess if it is feasible to enable native bull trout to migrate past dam structures into important spawning grounds. The Drywood Creek Watershed includes three main tributaries: Yarrow Creek, Spionkop Creek and South Drywood Creek, which drain into the Waterton Reservoir, located in the Oldman Watershed. Land use within this watershed includes oil and gas development and agriculture. Two dams that were built for these industries are located on Drywood Creek, which restrict native bull trout migration routes to headwater spawning areas. This project is working to collect fisheries data, engage the local community and work with landowners to protect and conserve riparian areas (vegetated areas along the creek edge). Since 2008, TUC has been working with the Drywood/Yarrow Conservation Program Education Day 2012. Photo—Trout Unlimited. Drywood/Yarrow Conservation Partnership on education and awareness programs in the watershed. These Project Leads: programs include involving local school groups, Brian Meagher (Trout Unlimited Canada) landowners and families in sampling fish and providing Lesley Peterson (Trout Unlimited Canada) riparian fencing and off-stream watering systems. Involving local communities is essential to conserve, Project Partners: protect and restore fisheries and healthy river systems for Local landowners current and future generations in the Oldman Watershed. Drywood/Yarrow Conservation Partnership Research and local awareness will increase options for Alberta Conservation Association maintaining and improving connectivity within the Oldman Southwestern Alberta Conservation Partnership Watershed helping to protect native bull trout populations. Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Project Funding Sources: Development – Fish and Wildlife Division Trout Unlimited Canada - Oldman Chapter Cows and Fish Alberta Conservation Association – Grant Eligible Waterton Lakes National Park Conservation Fund University of Lethbridge RBC Blue Water Fund Lethbridge College Trout Unlimited Canada - Oldman Chapter
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected]
Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 53
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2004 to Ongoing
SOUTHERN ROCKIES WATERSHED The same national / international research team working PROJECT: REGIONAL SOURCE WATER in the headwaters of the Oldman river basin is QUALITY AND IMPLICATIONS FOR researching regional cumulative effects of changes in DOWNSTREAM DRINKING WATER SUPPLIES water quality on downstream including transport of FROM ROCKY MOUNTAIN HEADWATERS contaminants and the impacts of these contaminants on REGIONS drinking water treatment operations in the Oldman river basin and other regional basins that rely on source waters from Alberta’s Rocky Mountain regions. This program is developing regional assessment procedures including regional models in the Oldman river basin and the Elbow R. watershed to enable tracking contaminants such as sediments, nutrients, and metals to enable predicting the effects of land disturbance or land use changes on the downstream transport of important water quality parameters at large river basin scales. The downstream impacts of these contaminants on water treatability (treatment system responsiveness, treatment cost and technology requirements) of drinking water treatment facilities to provide safe drinking water supplies in smaller and larger communities is a major focus of this work. This research is providing important information
Prairie landscape looking towards the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. Photo – Southern and assessment tools needed to assess large basin scale Rockies Watershed Project. cumulative water quality effects and their implications on Project Leads: a crucial water use for the public in downstream Uldis Silins (University of Alberta) communities. Micheal Stone (University of Waterloo) Monica Emelko (University of Waterloo) Kevin Bladon (Thompson Rivers University) Sarah Boon (University of Lethbridge) Axel Anderson (Foothills Research Institute Adrian Collins (ADAS) Project Funding Sources: Bommanna Krishnappan (Environment Canada) Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Project Partners: Development Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Alberta Innovates Energy and Environment Solutions Development City of Calgary City of Calgary , City of Lethbridge Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Town of Cardston, Town of Pincher Creek Canada Municipality of Crowsnest Pass FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 54
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2004 to Ongoing
SOUTHERN ROCKIES WATERSHED This large national and international research team has PROJECT: SOURCE WATER SUPPLY FROM been researching the linkage between landscape condition in the forested Rocky Mountain headwaters of THE HEADWATERS OF THE OLDMAN the Oldman river basin with regulation water quantity and WATERSHED (PHASE I & II) quality produced by this region since early 2004. Phase I of this research has been focused on how severe natural disturbance from the 2003 Lost Creek wildfire affected snowpacks, production of water, timing of flows, water quality, and stream health in the Castle river and Crowsnest river sub-basins. A large network of instrumented research watersheds in this headwaters region is being used to track how the post-disturbance recovery of the landscape after fire (and including management activities such as salvage logging) is affecting water quantity, quality, and stream health. A second major phase of the research (Phase II) is focused on exploring the impact of several alternative forest management strategies including patch cutting, partial-cut harvesting, and conventional green-tree retention harvests on hydrology, water quality, stream health, and
The 2003 Lost Creek Wildfire. Photo – Southern Rockies Watershed Project downstream effects including implications for drinking water. This research program is addressing information needs for forest and water resource managers to make Project Leads: informed management decisions in the headwaters of the Uldis Silins, Chris Williams, Michael Wagner Oldman river basin to ensure the long term security of (University of Alberta) water production and healthy streams in this critical Kevin Bladon (Thompson Rivers University) headwaters region the Oldman Watershed. Sarah Boon (University of Lethbridge) Micheal Stone, Monica Emelko (University of Project Funding Sources: Waterloo) Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Axel Anderson (Foothills Research Institute) Development Adrian Collins (ADAS) Alberta Innovates Energy and Environment Bommanna Krishnappan (Environment Canada) Solutions Deborah Martin (U.S. Geological Survey) Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Project Partner: Council of Canada Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Oldman Watershed Council Development Others
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 55
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2013
EVOLUTIONARY RESPONSE OF LONGNOSE Researchers at the University of Calgary are studying the DACE TO CONTAMINANTS long-term viability of Longnose dace populations that are subject to contaminants in the Oldman Mainstem. In a region with many agricultural activities, researchers are investigating how contaminants that run-off from livestock fields skew sex ratios. Scientists are working to determine if there is any evidence of evolution or if the fish have adapted genetically to exposure to contaminants. Secondly, researchers are looking to see if populations are mixing between sub-basins. Longnose dace have small home ranges and by studying this species, researchers are able to correlate cumulative impacts along the river to the corresponding Longnose dace sex ratio. Researchers use electrofishing to collect fish from the river and then use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify genetic markers. The fish allele frequency is compared to estimate the number and size of populations. Initial findings have identified that Longnose dace in the Oldman Hayley Tunna holding a Longnose dace during field sampling. Photo—L. Jackson. River have a severely female biased population with a 90- 95% female sex ratio at some sites. Female biased sex ratios are more common downstream of Lethbridge and Project Leads: heavy agriculture. In comparison with the Red Deer River Leland Jackson (University of Calgary) (50-65% female) and the Bow River (higher masculine Haley Tunna (University of Calgary) population), the Oldman River has a very high female Sean Rogers (University of Calgary) bias. This skewed population is linked to estrogen-like
endocrine disrupting compounds that are widespread in Project Funding Source: the watershed from agricultural and municipal sources. Alberta Conservation Association This study will not only help researchers understand the
relationship between contaminants and the feminization of Longnose dace, but also increase the understanding of contaminants present in our watershed and how it could impact Oldman Watershed residents.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected] Summary Completed 2013
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 56
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2010 to Ongoing
PARASITES IN FISH IN RESERVOIRS Since 2010, biologists at the University of Lethbridge have been working to determine the types and numbers of parasites (organism living in, with, or on another organism) within fish species in southern Alberta reservoirs. Biologists have determined that some reservoirs contain fish that are very heavily infected, while others contain fish that are lightly infected. There is still no concrete answer as to why this is occurring. One possibility is that parasites are transferred between reservoirs via certain irrigation canals. Another is that certain characteristics of individual reservoirs (e.g. depth, age, size, productivity) provide ideal conditions for the transmission of certain parasites. In collaboration with researchers collecting data related to fisheries projects, whitefish samples are collected from several reservoirs throughout the Oldman Watershed. Biologists evaluate the numbers and kinds of parasites living in, or on each Sampling for fish and parasites on Keho Lake, Alberta. Photo—M. Campen. sample to determine which reservoirs have higher occurrences of parasites. Understanding the occurrence Project Lead: of parasites among whitefish within reservoirs located in Cam Goater (University of Lethbridge) the Oldman Watershed will be important for future management initiatives. This research may also provide Project Partner: insight into the potential role the agricultural industry Joseph Rasmussen (University of Lethbridge) plays in distributing parasites to reservoirs.
Project Funding Source: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 57
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 1998 to Ongoing
PARASITES OF FORAGE FISH IN THE Since 1998, biologists at the University of Lethbridge OLDMAN WATERSHED have been developing an understanding of the role that parasites of forage fish (fish that serve as an important food source for larger predators and sport fish) play in aquatic ecosystems in the Oldman Watershed. Forage fish are an important part of the aquatic food web. In the Oldman Watershed, fathead minnows are one of the most common forage fish, and several species of parasite can infect them. One common minnow parasite creates small cysts that sit on the top of the brain, particularly the optic lobes (part of the brain that controls vision). Although almost every fathead minnow in Alberta is infected with hundreds of these parasites, little is known about how they affect the minnow’s biology. Using experimental laboratory studies, this research team infects minnows with parasites and then measures the impact they have on the minnow’s reproductive ability, behavioural traits, physical features and immune system. Fathead minnows are a common forage fish within the Oldman Watershed. These fish are typical- If the health of fathead minnows is compromised due to ly infected with large numbers of the larval stage of a brain-encysting fluke (insert). Photo—C. Goater parasites, the survival rate of these important forage fish could be reduced, which could go on to have cascading Project Lead: effects on the food web. Pinpointing the impacts of these Cam Goater (University of Lethbridge) parasites on forage fish will contribute to our
understanding of the role of parasites in aquatic Project Funding Source: ecosystems. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Alberta Conservation Association
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2002 to Ongoing
ROLE OF EMERGING DISEASES IN AQUATIC Since 2002, biologists at the University of Lethbridge ANIMALS have been working to understand recent amphibian (aquatic species such as frogs and salamanders) declines. Local declines have largely been attributed to diseases introduced into lakes located in the headwaters of the Oldman Watershed. Amphibians are critical components to both aquatic and terrestrial food webs, playing roles as predators of smaller species, and prey of larger animals. One specific virus, Ambystoma tigrinum virus (ATV), has been introduced into tiger salamander populations across most of Alberta. In some years, the virus can kill 40-100% of larval salamanders within a population. Yet in the same population, mortality in other years is undetectable. This research program seeks to identify the occurrence of ATV in tiger salamander populations in Southern Alberta, and the environmental triggers leading to mass mortalities. Salamander populations are censused with live traps at selected sites Tiger salamanders (insert) are common in Livingston Lake, Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. Photo—C. Goater in the Oldman Watershed. Prior to release, a small tissue sample is removed from the tail of each individual, fixed, Project Lead: and then assessed for the presence of ATV in the Cam Goater (University of Lethbridge) laboratory. Understanding where and when the outbreak of diseases is occurring will help determine what Project Partners: combination of environmental factors causes mass Stephanie Crowshoe (University of Lethbridge) mortalities. Although introduced parasites and diseases Oliver Lung (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) are on the rise within many aquatic environments, there is still very little known about the consequences they pose Project Funding Sources: for aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the factors that University of Lethbridge lead to mass mortalities within salamander populations Natural Sciences and Engineering Research could help prevent future outbreaks of the disease. Council of Canada Alberta Conservation Association
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2010 to Ongoing
BEHAVIOURAL ECOTOXICOLOGY: THE USE Biologists at the University of Lethbridge are exploring the OF FISH BEHAVIOUR AS AN INDICATOR OF behavioural effects of toxins in aquatic ecosystems on individuals and populations of fathead minnows. Fathead ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS minnows are a common aquatic species in rivers, lakes, reservoirs and irrigation canals located within the Oldman Watershed. These water bodies can be contaminated with potential toxins such as pesticides, heavy metals or endocrine disruptors from agricultural, industrial or urban sources. Although it is common to study the physiological and reproductive effects of toxins on minnows, less is known about how toxins impact the way the fish behave in their natural environment. This research is working to develop sensitive techniques to detect the effects of potential toxins in the water. In the lab, fathead minnows are exposed to candidate chemicals and then observed in a controlled space. For example, biologists are looking to see if these toxins influence the minnow’s ability to learn and remember places and routes in its environment. Another example would be testing if the minnow’s ability Fathead minnows. Photo - A.Hurly to respond to a predator model is compromised. If individual fathead minnow behaviour is impaired due to Project Lead: toxins, such impairment could affect the minnow Andy Hurly (University of Lethbridge) population and the populations of species that eat, and are eaten by, the minnows. Fathead minnows are Project Partner: essential to the aquatic food web in the Oldman Alice Hontela (University of Lethbridge) Watershed, and are common prey for many bird and sport fish species. Behavioural toxicology can help us to Project Funding Source: better understand which chemicals in our environment University of Lethbridge require our immediate attention and which chemicals are relatively safe.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 60
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2013
CREATING A HYDRO-CLIMATOLOGICAL Researchers at the University of Lethbridge are working to ATLAS OF ALBERTA create an atlas of the distribution and amount of water (hydrology) and climate (called the hydro-climatological atlas) for the entire province of Alberta, including the Oldman Watershed. Both hydrology and climate of Alberta vary dramatically across the province. Although Alberta has a large amount of information about its watersheds, soils, and land suitability for agriculture, important hydrological and climate data are not available at the provincial and regional scale. Since 2011, researchers have gathered available climate and hydrology data from the National Land and Water Information Systems from between 1950 and 2010 and are processing it using geographic information system (GIS) and modelling tools. Using these methods, researchers are able to create mean monthly detailed maps focused on a number of climate trends: sunshine hours, wind speed, relative humidity, number of frost days, annual precipitation, number of consecutive days with or without rainfall, length of growing season and many more. The hydro- climatological atlas of Alberta will present where water
Proportion of water yield in the Oldman Watershed within each of the smaller sub basins is pro- comes from within the Oldman Watershed and present duced where. It shows which areas of the Oldman Watershed are the most water producing. trend maps. Municipalities, ranchers, and farmers will be Figure – S. Kienzle able to access these maps online and be able to better Project Lead: understand anticipated changes in water supply due to Stefan Kienzle (University of Lethbridge) climate change and adapt their practices, as required.
Project Partners: Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development National Hydrology Research Centre
Project Funding Source: Alberta Water and Environment Hub (WeHub)
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: The Alberta Waterportal website at www.albertawater.com Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2015
IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE As climate changes over time, researchers at the WATER BALANCE IN THE OLDMAN RIVER University of Lethbridge are working to understand what changes to water availability will take place within the BASIN Oldman Watershed and how the watershed is going to react. All residents and farmers rely on water resources to sustain their way of life. Irrigation farmers rely on water from the mountains for sustained yields and dryland farms, farmers who don’t use irrigation, rely only on precipitation that falls on their land. Researchers are using the ACRU agro-hydrological modelling system (emphasis on soil water and plant water use) to simulate how much water is available in an average year in the Castle Headwaters and applying their research to the rest of the Oldman Watershed. Their findings will create a baseline and quantify ranges of future water availability, soil moisture availability, evaporation rates and crop yields in wet years and dry years. As climate change is related to extreme weather, this project will quantify how the watershed will react to extreme levels of water production. This project is Growing Season Length Trend (in days/decade) —1950-2010. Image –S. Kienzle. an important component of the Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Extremes Project (see Directory: Project Lead: Sauchyn) and the Hydo-climatological Atlas of Alberta Stefan Kienzle (University of Lethbridge) (see Directory: Kienzle). Through understanding current water resources and applying various climate scenarios, Project Partners: this project will assist those living in the Oldman Tim Anderson (University of Lethbridge) Watershed to adapt and plan ahead for climate David Sauchyn (University of Regina) uncertainties. Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Oldman Watershed Council
Project Funding Sources: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: www.parc.ca/vacea Summary Completed 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2013
STREAM TEMPERATURE RESPONSE TO Scientists at the University of Lethbridge are developing a ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE: IMPLICATIONS further understanding of the processes that control water temperature in mountain streams. Water temperature FOR NATIVE FISH SPECIES influences water quality, ecosystem function and the health of fish species. Changes in water temperature due to environmental change (e.g. climate change, land-use change and wildfire) are of large concern in mountain streams. This five year research project (2009 to 2013) is taking place within the Oldman Watershed sub-basin, particularly the tributaries of the Crowsnest and Castle Rivers. These mountain streams in southern Alberta have some of the most desired sport fisheries in Canada. They also provide important habitat for native cutthroat trout and bull trout, both of which are at risk. An improved understanding of the impact of environmental change on stream temperature will help preserve native fisheries in the Oldman Watershed. To help in achieving this goal, this research is using measurements collected in the field to design a modelling tool that can be used to predict Weather station on Star Creek. Photo - R.MacDonald stream temperature in mountain systems. The final objective of this project involves using this modelling tool Project Lead: for watershed management in Alberta and increasing our Ryan MacDonald (University of Lethbridge) knowledge of the potential effects of environmental change on the thermal habitat of native salmonids. Project Partners: Sarah Boon (University of Lethbridge) Jim Byrne (University of Lethbridge)
Project Funding Sources: Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada Alberta Conservation Association Trout Unlimited Canada Prairie Adaptive Research Collaborative Alberta Sustainable Resource Development – Forest Management Branch Alberta Water Resource Institute Southern Alberta Water and Environment Hub
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected]
Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED Ongoing
ADAPTATION AND CONSERVATION OF During a long-term research project, scientists at the FLOODPLAIN FORESTS University of Lethbridge have been studying the ecology of river valleys, particularly how trees have adapted to living in floodplain forests and how sensitive they are to changing environments. The Lethbridge area within the Oldman Watershed has been described as the global centre for diversity of riparian cottonwood forests. These forests are composed almost exclusively of native cottonwood trees, and include four species and a vast range of interspecific hybrids. Healthy floodplain forests not only contain rich wildlife habitat, but also are important to river environments, as they provide riverbank stability, and riparian vegetation that provides primary production inputs to the aquatic ecosystems. Surface water in the rivers of the Oldman Watershed are highly regulated by dams. Restricting flow downstream has resulted in collapse of many floodplain forests, which rely on seasonally-dynamic stream flow patterns. In order to Flooded floodplain – Oldman River at Cottonwood Park, Lethbridge. Photo—S. Rood. successfully protect and conserve these areas in the future, it is important to understand how these forests Project Leads: currently function and how they will adapt to changes in Stewart Rood (University of Lethbridge) land use and climate. Using field and lab studies, this Matthew Letts (University of Lethbridge) research team is working to catalogue and better David Pearce (University of Lethbridge) understand these important flood plain ecosystems, from the physiological functioning of the individual tree, to the Project Partners: function of the entire forest. In the prairies where trees Steven Strauss (Oregon State) are scarce, the conservation of cottonwood forests will be Mel Tyree (University of Alberta) essential in sustaining not only flood plain ecosystems, Tom Witham (Northern Arizona University) but also healthy river environments. Kevin Floate (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) John Mahoney (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development)
Project Funding Source: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 64
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2012
ALBERTA SPRINGS PROJECT Scientists at the University of Lethbridge and Northern Arizona University are developing strategies to study and Project Leads: inventory springs in Southern Alberta. Springs are Stewart Rood (University of Lethbridge) openings where water flows to the earth’s surface from Abe Springer (Northern Arizona University) underground. These surface water sources are unique because the surface water is actually recently exposed Project Partner: groundwater. Springs provide an opportunity to study the Larry Stevens (Museum of Northern Arizona) interaction between ground and surface water. Although ranchers and farmers have recognized springs as reliable Project Funding Sources: high quality water sources, many springs in southern Imperial Oil Foundation Alberta are underutilized and underappreciated. University of Lethbridge Following examples of work done in the United States, Northern Arizona University this project will start a spring inventory for southern Government of Alberta Alberta, as well as provide the framework for adding future springs to the inventory. At each spring, water chemistry measurements will be taken to pinpoint the underground source. Measurements of streamflow, aquatic ecology and vegetation will help to characterize the individual springs. The research team will interview the landowners and First Nations to collect valuable information about the history of springs and the value they currently have to humans. This inventory is important to the management of springs in the Oldman Watershed, particularly with current and future surface (e.g. agricultural) and underground (e.g. oil and gas operations) industrial activities and predictions of climate change. Promoting awareness about springs will allow
southern Albertans to properly manage and utilize these important water resources.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 65
PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2012
RIVERS FOR LIFE A research team of biologists and lawyers at the Universities of Lethbridge, Calgary and Alberta are working to develop recommendations for managing dam and reservoir operations that will conserve and restore natural riverine ecosystems in the South Saskatchewan River Basin (SSRB). Stream flow in the SSRB is highly manipulated by a network of reservoirs and hydroelectric dams. Under many circumstances, irrigation, industry and municipal uses drive the amount of water that dams store and/or release into the streams. Defining the appropriate amount of water for the conservation and restoration of the natural environment is extremely difficult, because it varies seasonally and yearly. Traditionally policies have identified instream flow needs as a minimum stream flow value; however, research indicates that current flow guidelines are insufficient or inappropriate for proper ecosystem function. Using field and laboratory studies, Crowsnest River. Photo - S.Rood researchers are working to understand the role that water quantity and quality, and the timing of seasonal flow patterns, play in sustaining healthy aquatic and terrestrial Project Leads: ecosystems. The research team will then use this Stewart Rood (University of Lethbridge) information to develop recommendations for Joseph Rasmussen (University of Lethbridge) management strategies and policies for dam and Alice Hontela (University of Lethbridge) reservoir operations. This four year (2009 to 2012) project John Post (University of Calgary) will provide management recommendations for a Leland Jackson (University of Calgary) harmonious balance between water use and ecosystem Nigel Bankes (University of Calgary) sustainability in the SSRB, which includes the Oldman Arlene Kwasniak (University of Calgary) Watershed.
Project Funding Sources: Alberta Water Research Institute Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2016
WATER AND ENVIRONMENT HUB (WEHUB) The Waters and Environment Hub (WEHUB), a project involving Explorus, the University of Lethbridge, Cybera, Project Leads: and the Alberta WaterPortal is developing a cooperative Stewart Rood (University of Lethbridge) online software program for public access to water and Sarah Boon (University of Lethbridge) environmental data. Within Alberta, many agencies such Stefan Kienzle (University of Lethbridge) as academic institutions, government and non- Explorus government organizations and consulting firms are gathering important and useful data. Without a committed Project Partner: and simplified process to maintain these water and Michael Nemeth (Water and Environment Hub) environmental data, a large portion of it is lost or under- utilized for future studies. The WEHUB initiative is Project Funding Sources: currently in the construction and design phase of an Western Economic Diversification online software program to ‘let the data flow’ in Alberta. University of Lethbridge This project will establish common data procedures, units Alberta CyberInfrastructure for Innovation and organization to allow water and environmental data (CYBERA) to be transparent and accessible to scientists studying Alberta WaterPortal water and the environment. Engaging the scientists to share their data will be a challenging task, but it is one the WEHUB is willing to explore and develop. This project could help scientists and resource managers support future water management, research, education, innovation and economic diversification in the Oldman Watershed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or VISIT: http://www.cybera.ca/project/water-and-environmental-hub Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2012
PREDICTING BROOK TROUT INVASIVENESS Biologists at the University of Lethbridge have completed IN BULL TROUT STREAMS OF THE a four year study to better understand the factors that make introduced exotic (non-native) fish species displace CANADIAN ROCKIES native fish species in the streams of the Canadian Rockies, including headwater streams of the Oldman Watershed. Bull Trout, a native fish from streams within Alberta and specifically the Oldman Watershed, has seen its population greatly decline. This decline is a result of poor management practices in the past and competition with exotic fish species. Using both field observations and lab experiments, researchers determined some of the underlying factors that cause brook trout to become invasive in bull trout streams. At the project’s end, biologists determined that brook trout invasion into bull trout streams is variable and likely influenced by a suite of factors. Field observations revealed that brook trout dominated the fish community over bull trout in warmer sites that had undercut banks; in contrast, bull trout dominated in colder sites that had a high amount of large Juvenile Bull Trout (left) and Brook Trout (right) in an artificial stream. Photo—W. Warnock. substrate cover. Laboratory studies of competition between the two species revealed that bull trout outcompeted brook trout when fish density was low and Project Leads: habitat complexity was high, as this scenario reduced the Will Warnock (University of Lethbridge) effectiveness of the aggressive territorial foraging strategy Joseph Rasmussen (University of Lethbridge) of brook trout. In addition, bull trout from a migratory
population competed more successfully against brook Project Funding Sources: trout than those from a resident population. Aquatic Alberta Conservation Association invasive species are a major threat to populations of Natural Sciences and Engineering Research native species. Better understanding the role brook trout Council of Canada play in the decline in bull trout may help to predict and to Trout Unlimited Canada manage the spread of such invasive species in the future.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2009 to 2014
NSERC HYDRONET Since 2009, researchers from across the country have been involved in a national study to strengthen the scientific basis of decisions regarding hydropower generation effects on the environment. Through establishing a large network of scientists to compare and share information, there is an increase in understanding and development of new tools to better assess, minimize, and mitigate the effects of hydropower on fish and their habitats. Researchers are using a comparative design where both natural and regulated rivers are sampled and contrasted for instance, in terms of habitat characteristics and fish productivity. Since the creation of the network, forty-six regulated and natural rivers have been sampled across Canada. Within the Oldman Watershed, the Waterton River (regulated river) below the Waterton Dam and the Castle River (natural river) adjacent to Beaver
Researchers electrofish Waterton River. Photo—NSERC HydroNet. Mines have been sampled. This collaborative study is aimed to promote sustainable hydropower and healthy Project Lead: aquatic ecosystems locally, in the Oldman Watershed, and Dr. Daniel Boisclair (Université de Montréal) nationally, across Canada. Project Partners: Continued—Project Partners: Academic scientists, graduate students, and post-doctoral Managers and Scientists from: researchers from: Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Manitoba Hydro, BC Université de Montréal Hydro, Brookfield Renewable Power, Énergie NB Memorial University of Newfoundland-Labrador Power, TransAlta, Canadian Hydropower University of New-Brunswick Association, Canadian Electricity Association, Canadian River Institute Ontario Waterpower Association, Manitoba Water Institut National de Recherche Scientifique-Eau, Stewardship, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Terre, Environment Ministère des Richesses Naturelles et de la Faune McGill University de Québec Carlton University Project Funding Sources: University of Waterloo Fisheries and Ocean Canada University of Alberta Manitoba Hydro Lethbridge University BC Hydro University of British-Columbia Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] or VISIT: www.hydronet.umontreal.ca/ Summary Completed 2013
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2011 to 2016
VULNERABILITY AND ADAPTATION TO An interdisciplinary and international project based out of CLIMATE EXTREMES the University of Regina is developing an advanced understanding of the forecasted impacts of extreme weather events (such as summer drought and excessive precipitation events) associated with climate change in dryland environments and the impacts these extreme events will have on local communities. Historical data records and global climate change models predict significant changes in future climates. Some climate change predictions such as a warming climate could be advantageous to some groups in society and some environments; however, some predictions such as higher occurrence of extreme summer drought and excessive precipitation events could be very costly natural hazards, especially in dryland areas. This project will be combining the social and physical sciences in five different countries including Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia and Canada. In Canada, the Oldman Watershed has been selected as Collecting tree-ring samples in the Whalebacks (Waldron Grazing Cooperative) in the Oldman a target area because this watershed is primarily dryland Basin. Photo - D. Sauchyn and is one of the most water stressed areas of the Project Leads: country. The research team plans to call upon local Dave Sauchyn (University of Regina) watershed stewardship groups (e.g. Oldman Watershed Fernanado Santibanez (University of Chile) Council) and government agencies to involve Project Partners: communities to discuss the social and economic Oldman Watershed Council implications of these extreme weather events on Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development - residents and stakeholder groups. The research team will Irrigation Branch recreate past climate records using tree ring data and Alberta Environment then use computer modelling to predict the climate in the Blood Tribe future. After conducting a community vulnerability Environment Canada - Trans-Boundary Waters Unit assessment and predicting climate conditions in the Project Funding Sources: future, a risk assessment will be completed to identify the International Development Research Centre areas of potential risk in the study areas and propose Natural Sciences and Engineering Research adaptation strategies for communities in both South and Council of Canada North America. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] Original Summary Completed 2011, Updated 2012
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PROJECT AREA
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
RESEARCH AND MONITORING DIRECTORY: TIMELINE: CURRENT WATER-RELATED PROJECTS IN THE OLDMAN WATERSHED 2012 to 2014
SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER BASIN WaterSMART Solutions Ltd. and Alberta Innovates – ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE VARIABILITY Energy and Environmental Solutions are working towards improving the understanding of climate variability and PROJECT potential adaptation strategies in the South Saskatchewan Project Leads: River Basin (SSRB). The SSRB is comprised of four sub- Megan Van Ham (WaterSMART Solutions Ltd.) basins, including the Oldman Watershed. Researchers will Mike Kelly (WaterSMART Solutions Ltd.) use a comprehensive river system model to facilitate a Jon Sweetman (Alberta Innovates—Energy and collaborative modelling process with a working group of Environmental Solutions) informed stakeholders to advance climate adaptation and Project Partners: resilience in the SSRB. Inviting stakeholders, such as Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource provincial government agencies, local government, Development irrigation districts, university groups, industry and water Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development stewardship groups, to participate in this modeling process Alberta Tourism, Parks, and Recreation City of Lethbridge, City of Medicine Hat is key to the success of this project. Through harnessing Town of Pincher Creek the efforts and intelligence of the people who value water Municipality of Crowsnest Pass resources in their communities, researchers are able to SouthGrow work together with the stakeholders to create a shared Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District future with a common understanding of future water St. Mary River Irrigation District resources given the uncertainties of climate variability and Taber Irrigation District change. Existing analytical and fit-for-purpose decision United Irrigation District tools will be used to develop an adaptive management Raymond Irrigation District approach to water resource management. This approach University of Lethbridge Trout Unlimited will enable organizations, communities and individuals to Ducks Unlimited be resilient to climate variability, within the physical Spray Lakes Sawmills realities of the SSRB river flows, requirements and Cattle Industry infrastructure. As water supply in the Oldman Watershed Oldman Watershed Council is highly variable with intensive demands across all water South East Alberta Watershed Alliance using sectors, it is important to assess the use of this Upper Little Bow Basin Water Users resource from a climate change perspective to promote Project Funding Sources: sustainable water resource management in our Climate Change Emissions Management watershed. Corporation Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected] or VISIT: http://www.albertawater.com/index.php/projects-research/ssrb-adaptation-project or http://www.albertawatersmart.com/expertise/featured-projects/south-saskatchewan-river-basin.html Summary Completed 2012
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
PROJECTS ORGANIZED BY KEYWORDS
AGRICULTURE AQUATIC ECOLOGY-continued Assessment and Management of Environmental Risks Associated Stream Temperature Response to Environmental Change: with Agricultural Organic Fertilizers of Animals, Poultry and Implications for Native Fish Species ...... 63 Human Origin ...... 17 The Abundance and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Castle River Evolutionary Response in Longnose Dace to Contaminants ... 56 Drainage ...... 20 Impact of Climate Change on the Water Balance in the Oldman Water and Environment Hub ...... 67 River Basin ...... 62 Waterton Drainage Bull Trout Assessment...... 19 Investigation of the Presence of Agricultural Pesticides in High- Altitude Precipitation of Southern Alberta Rocky Mountains AQUATIC HABITAT ...... 13 Foothills Stream Crossings Program ...... 41 Investigation of the Presence of Manure-Borne Estrogen in LakeWatch ...... 37 Surface Waters of Southern Alberta ...... 14 Monitoring Bull Trout Spawning Activity, Distribution and Livestock Manure Impacts on Groundwater Quality in Alberta . 15 Abundance in the Upper Oldman River Drainage ...... 26 Nutrient Beneficial Management Practices Evaluation Project . 18 Movement and Habitat Use of Lake Sturgeon in the South The Role of Water in the Epidemiology of Campylobacteriosis in Saskatchewan River Basin ...... 40 Southwestern Alberta ...... 10 Parasites of Forage Fish in the Oldman Watershed ...... 58 Water Diverted for Irrigation Purposes by Irrigation Districts in Predicting Brook Trout Invasiveness in Bull Trout Streams of the Southern Alberta ...... 16 Canadian Rockies ...... 68 Watershed Evaluation of Best Management Practices (in the Remnant Westslope Cutthroat Trout Population Inventory for Lower Little Bow River Watershed ...... 12 Southern Alberta ...... 28 Role of Emerging Diseases in Aquatic Animals ...... 59 AQUATIC ECOLOGY Adaptation and Conservation of Floodplain Forests ...... 64 BENEFICIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMP’S) Alberta Springs Project ...... 65 Assessment and Management of Environmental Risks Associated Alberta Volunteer Amphibian Monitoring Project ...... 21 with Agricultural Organic Fertilizers of Animals, Poultry and Behavioural Ecotoxicoloy: The Use of Fish Behaviour as an Human Origin ...... 17 Indicator of Environmental Impacts ...... 61 Nutrient Beneficial Management Practices Evaluation Project 18 Crowsnest River Angler Survey ...... 23 Ridge Reservoir Water Quality Study ...... 11 Drywood Creek Watershed Renewal Program ...... 53 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Extremes ...... 70 Evolutionary Response in Longnose Dace to Contaminants ... 56 Watershed Evaluation of Best Management Practices in the Investigation of the Presence of Manure-Borne Estrogen in Lower Little Bow River Watershed ...... 12 Surface Waters of Southern Alberta ...... 14 LakeWatch ...... 37 CLIMATE CHANGE Movement and Habitat Use of Lake Sturgeon in the South Alberta Springs Project ...... 65 Saskatchewan River Basin ...... 40 Impact of Climate Change on the Water Balance in the Oldman NSERC HydroNet ...... 69 River Basin ...... 62 Parasites in Fish in Reservoirs ...... 57 Creating a Hydro-climatological Atlas of Alberta ...... 61 Parasites of Forage Fish in the Oldman Watershed ...... 58 South Saskatchewan River Basin Adaptation to Climate Predicting Brook Trout Invasiveness in Bull Trout Streams of the Variability Project ...... 71 Canadian Rockies ...... 68 Stream Temperature Response to Environmental Change: Remnant Westslope Cutthroat Trout Population Inventory for Implications for Native Fish Species ...... 63 Southern Alberta ...... 28 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Extremes ...... 70 Rivers for Life ...... 66 Water Temperature Monitoring in Westslope Cutthroat Trout Role of Emerging Diseases in Aquatic Animals ...... 59 Streams ...... 27 Seasonal Diversity of Planktonic Protists in the Oldman River of Southwestern Alberta, Canada ...... 9 DAMS AND INSTREAM INFRASTRUCTURE Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Source Water Supply from Adaptation and Conservation of Floodplain Forests ...... 64 the Headwaters of the Oldman Watershed ...... 55 Drywood Creek Renewal Program ...... 53
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
PROJECTS ORGANIZED BY KEYWORDS—continued
DAMS AND INSTREAM INFRASTRUCTURE-continued GROUNDWATER NSERC HydroNet ...... 69 Alberta Springs Project ...... 65 Rivers For Life ...... 66 Crowsnest Watershed Aquifer Mapping and Groundwater South Saskatchewan River Basin Adaptation to Climate Management Planning Study ...... 47 Variability Project ...... 71 Livestock Manure Impacts on Groundwater Quality in Alberta . 15 Water Diverted for Irrigation Purposes by Irrigation Districts in Long-term Groundwater Monitoring at Lethbridge College ...... 43 Southern Alberta ...... 16 The Investigation of High Nitrogen Concentrations in Water Wells Near Fort MacLeod ...... 48 DRINKING WATER AND WATER TREATMENT Willow Creek Aquifer Mapping and Groundwater Management Greywater Reuse Pilot Project ...... 52 Planning Study ...... 49 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Regional Source Water Quality and Implications for Downstream Drinking Water HEADWATERS Supplies from Rocky Mountain Headwaters Region ...... 54 Alberta River Basins—Hydrometric and Meteorological Data The Role of Water in the Epidemiology of Campylobacteriosis in Monitoring and Validation in the Oldman River Sub-Basin.. 36 Southwestern Alberta ...... 10 An Evaluation of the Riparian Health of Priority Westslope Water Quantity and Quality Sampling by Municipalities in the Cutthroat Trout Streams in Alberta’s South Eastern Slopes Oldman Watershed ...... 45 ...... 38 Castle River Water Quality Sampling ...... 35 FISHERIES Crowsnest Pass Riparian Restoration Program ...... 46 An Evaluation of the Riparian Health of Priority Westslope Crowsnest Watershed Aquifer Mapping and Groundwater Cutthroat Trout Streams in Alberta’s South Eastern Slopes Management Planning Study ...... 47 ...... 38 Fish Abundance Monitoring at Four Index Sites Within the Lost Crowsnest River Angler Survey ...... 23 Creek Fire ...... 25 Crowsnest River Mountain Whitefish Snorkel Survey and Foothills Stream Crossings Program ...... 41 Abundance Estimate ...... 24 Headwaters Indicators Project ...... 50 Drywood Creek Renewal Program ...... 53 Investigation of the Presence of Agricultural Pesticides in High- Evolutionary Response in Longnose Dace to Contaminants ... 56 Altitude Precipitation of Southern Alberta Rocky Mountains13 Fish Abundance Monitoring at Four Index Sites Within the Lost Monitoring Bull Trout Spawning Activity, Distribution and Creek Fire ...... 25 Abundance in the Upper Oldman River Drainage ...... 26 Foothills Stream Crossings Program ...... 41 Predicting Brook Trout Invasiveness in Bull Trout Streams of the Monitoring Bull Trout Spawning Activity, Distribution and Canadian Rockies ...... 68 Abundance in the Upper Oldman River Drainage ...... 26 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Source Water Supply from Movement and Habitat Use of Lake Sturgeon in the South the Headwaters of the Oldman Watershed ...... 55 Saskatchewan River Basin ...... 40 Streamkeepers Program: Crowsnest Pass...... 39 Predicting Brook Trout Invasiveness in Bull Trout Streams of the Stream Temperature Response to Environmental Change: Canadian Rockies ...... 68 Implications for Native Fish Species ...... 63 Remnant Westslope Cutthroat Trout Population Inventory for The Abundance and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Castle River Southern Alberta ...... 28 Drainage ...... 20 The Abundance and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Castle River Water Temperature Monitoring in Westslope Cutthroat Trout Drainage ...... 20 Streams ...... 27 Water Temperature Monitoring in Westslope Cutthroat Trout Waterton Drainage Bull Trout Assessment...... 19 Streams ...... 27 Waterton Drainage Bull Trout Assessment ...... 19
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
PROJECTS ORGANIZED BY KEYWORDS—continued
HUMAN HEALTH LAND USE CHANGE Assessment and Management of Environmental Risks Associated Adaptation and Conservation of Floodplain Forests ...... 64 with Agricultural Organic Fertilizers of Animals, Poultry and Alberta Springs Project ...... 65 Human Origin ...... 17 Drywood Creek Watershed Renewal Program ...... 53 Greywater Reuse Pilot Project ...... 52 Headwaters Indicators Project ...... 50 Seasonal Diversity of Planktonic Protists in the Oldman River of Stream Temperature Response to Environmental Change: Southwestern Alberta, Canada ...... 9 Implications for Native Fish Species ...... 63 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Regional Source Water Quality and Implications for Downstream Drinking Water RECREATION Supplies from Rocky Mountain Headwaters Region ...... 54 Alberta Volunteer Amphibian Monitoring Project ...... 21 The Investigation of High Nitrogen Concentrations in Water Wells Crowsnest River Angler Survey ...... 23 near Fort Macleod ...... 48 LakeWatch ...... 37 The Role of Water in the Epidemiology of Campylobacteriosis in South Riparian Conservation ...... 22 Southwestern Alberta ...... 10 Water Quality of Storm Water Outfalls in the City of Lethbridge RESERVOIRS ...... 42 Alberta River Basins—Hydrometric and Meteorological Data Water Quantity and Quality Sampling by Municipalities in the Monitoring and Validation in the Oldman River Sub-Basin.. 36 Oldman Watershed ...... 45 Baseline Water Quality Data—Southern Lakes and Reservoirs ...... 30 INSTREAM FLOW NEEDS Parasites in Fish in Reservoirs ...... 57 Rivers for Life ...... 66 Ridge Reservoir Water Quality Study ...... 11
IRRIGATION RIPARIAN AREAS Assessment of Water Quality in Alberta’s Irrigation Districts .... 17 Adaptation and Conservation of Floodplain Forests ...... 64 Investigation of the Presence of Agricultural Pesticides in High- An Evaluation of the Riparian Health of Priority Westslope Altitude Precipitation of Southern Alberta Rocky Mountains Cutthroat Trout Streams in Alberta’s South Eastern Slopes ...... 13 ...... 38 Livestock Manure Impacts on Groundwater Quality in Alberta . 15 Crowsnest Pass Riparian Restoration Program ...... 46 Nutrient Beneficial Management Practices Evaluation Project . 18 Southern Riparian Conservation ...... 22 Parasites in Fish in Reservoirs ...... 57 Streamkeepers Program: Crowsnest Pass...... 39 Water Diverted for Irrigation Purposes by Irrigation Districts in Southern Alberta ...... 16 RIVERS Water Quality of Storm Water Outfalls in the City of Lethbridge Castle River Water Quality Sampling ...... 35 ...... 42 Crowsnest Pass Riparian Restoration Program ...... 46 Crowsnest River Angler Survey ...... 23 LAKES Crowsnest River Mountain Whitefish Snorkel Survey and Alberta River Basins—Hydrometric and Meteorological Data Abundance Estimate ...... 24 Monitoring and Validation in the Oldman River Sub-Basin . 36 Cumulative Effects—Physical Conditions—Southern Rivers .... 31 Baseline Water Quality Data—Southern Lakes and Reservoirs Cumulative Effects—Upper Oldman Tributaries ...... 32 ...... 30 Evolutionary Response in Longnose Dace to Contaminants ... 56 Cumulative Effects—Physical Conditions—Southern Rivers ... 31 Investigation of the Presence of Agricultural Pesticides in High- LakeWatch ...... 37 Altitude Precipitation of Southern Alberta Rocky Mountains Nutrient Assessment—Frank Lake, Twin Valley Reservoir ...... 29 ...... 13 Tributary Monitoring for Water Quality Objectives Development— Investigation of the Presence of Manure-Borne Estrogen in Southern Region Watershed ...... 34 Surface Waters of Southern Alberta ...... 14 Long-term River Network—Southern Alberta Rivers ...... 33
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WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
PROJECTS ORGANIZED BY KEYWORDS—continued
RIVERS-continued WATER QUALITY-continued Movement and Habitat Use of Lake Sturgeon in the South Seasonal Diversity of Planktonic Protists in the Oldman River of Saskatchewan River Basin ...... 40 Southwestern Alberta, Canada ...... 9 Nutrient Assessment—Frank Lake, Twin Valley Reservoir ...... 29 South Riparian Conservation ...... 22 Tributary Monitoring for Water Quality Objectives Development— Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Regional Source Water Southern Region Watershed ...... 34 Quality and Implications for Downstream Drinking Water Waterton Drainage Bull Trout Assessment ...... 19 Supplies from Rocky Mountain Headwaters Region ...... 54 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Source Water Supply from SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT the Headwaters of the Oldman Watershed ...... 55 Water Quality of Storm Water Outfalls in the City of Lethbridge Stream Temperature Response to Environmental Change: ...... 42 Implications for Native Fish Species ...... 63 Watershed Evaluation of Best Management Practices in the The Role of Water in the Epidemiology of Campylobacteriosis in Lower Little Bow River Watershed ...... 12 Southwestern Alberta ...... 10 Tributary Monitoring for Water Quality Objectives Development— WATER POLICY Southern Region Watershed ...... 34 Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Extremes ...... 70 Water and Environment Hub ...... 67 Water Quality of Storm Water Outfalls in the City of Lethbridge WATER QUALITY ...... 42 Assessment and Management of Environmental Risks Associated Water Quantity and Quality Sampling by Municipalities in the with Agricultural Organic Fertilizers of Animals, Poultry and Oldman Watershed ...... 45 Human Origin ...... 51 Water Temperature Monitoring in Westslope Cutthroat Trout Assessment of Water Quality in Alberta’s Irrigation Districts .... 17 Streams ...... 27 Baseline Water Quality Data—Southern Lakes and Reservoirs Watershed Evaluation of Best Management Practices in the ...... 30 Lower Little Bow River Watershed ...... 12 Behavioural Ecotoxicoloy: The Use of Fish Behaviour as an Year-round Monitoring of Chloride Concentrations in Oldman Indicator of Environmental Impacts ...... 60 River Basin with Special Emphasis on the Effects of De-icing Castle River Water Quality Sampling ...... 35 Chemicals on Surface Water Quality ...... 44 Cumulative Effects—Physical Conditions—Southern Rivers ... 33 Cumulative Effects—Upper Oldman Tributaries ...... 32 WATER QUANTITY Evolutionary Response in Longnose Dace to Contaminants ... 56 Alberta River Basins—Hydrometric and Meteorological Data Fish Abundance Monitoring at Four Index Sites Within the Lost Monitoring and Validation in the Oldman River Sub-Basin.. Creek Fire ...... 25 Alberta Springs Project ...... 36 Greywater Reuse Pilot Project ...... 52 Creating a Hydro-climatological Atlas of Alberta ...... 61 Headwaters Indicators Project ...... 50 Greywater Reuse Pilot Project ...... 52 Investigation of the Presence of Agricultural Pesticides in High- Headwaters Indicators Project ...... 50 Altitude Precipitation of Southern Alberta Rocky Mountains Impact of Climate Change on the Water Balance in the Oldman ...... 13 River Basin ...... 62 Investigation of the Presence of Manure-Borne Estrogen in Nutrient Assessment—Frank Lake, Twin Valley Reservoir ...... 29 Surface Waters of Southern Alberta ...... 14 Rivers for Life ...... 66 LakeWatch ...... 37 South Saskatchewan River Basin Adaptation to Climate Livestock Manure Impacts on Groundwater Quality in Alberta . 15 Variability Project ...... 71 Long-term Groundwater Monitoring at Lethbridge College ...... 43 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Regional Source Water Long-term River Network—Southern Alberta Rivers ...... 33 Quality and Implications for Downstream Drinking Water Nutrient Assessment—Frank Lake, Twin Valley Reservoir ...... 29 Supplies from Rocky Mountain Headwaters Region ...... 54 Ridge Reservoir Water Quality Study ...... 11 Southern Rockies Watershed Project: Source Water Supply from Rivers for Life ...... 66 the Headwaters of the Oldman Watershed ...... 55
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 75
WATERSHED SCIENCE TEAM
PROJECTS ORGANIZED BY KEYWORDS—continued
WATER QUANTITY-continued Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Extremes ...... 70 Water and Environment Hub ...... 67 Water Diverted for Irrigation Purposes by Irrigation Districts in Southern Alberta ...... 16 Water Quantity and Quality Sampling by Municipalities in the Oldman Watershed ...... 45
WATERSHED MANAGEMENT Alberta River Basins—Hydrometric and Meteorological Data Monitoring and Validation in the Oldman River Sub-Basin . 36 An Evaluation of the Riparian Health of Priority Westslope Cutthroat Trout Streams in Alberta’s South Eastern Slopes ...... 38 Creating a Hydro-climatological Atlas of Alberta ...... 61 Crowsnest Pass Riparian Restoration Program ...... 46 Foothills Stream Crossings Program ...... 41 Headwaters Indicators Project ...... 50 Impact of Climate Change on the Water Balance in the Oldman River Basin ...... 62 LakeWatch ...... 37 Nutrient Beneficial Management Practices Evaluation Project . Ridge Reservoir Water Quality Study ...... 11 South Riparian Conservation ...... 22 South Saskatchewan River Basin Adaptation to Climate Variability Project ...... 71 Streamkeepers Program: Crowsnest Pass ...... 39 Watershed Evaluation of Best Management Practices in the Lower Little Bow River Watershed ...... 12 Water and Environment Hub ...... 67 Waterton Drainage Bull Trout Assessment ...... 19 Year-round Monitoring of Chloride Concentrations in Oldman River Basin with Special Emphasis on the Effects of De-icing Chemicals on Surface Water Quality ...... 44
WETLANDS Alberta Volunteer Amphibian Monitoring Project ...... 21
Contact the OWC: www.oldmanbasin.org • 403.382.4239 • [email protected] 76