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5.2.9.4 Predator / Prey Interactions Predation and wildlife-vehicle or wildlife-train collisions are the most important factors affecting wildlife populations in the RSA in JNP and MRPP. It is noteworthy that other common limiting factors such as hunting and habitat loss due to logging, road construction and other developments are considered to be less important in the RSA in JNP and MRPP than outside the parks since these activities are either not permitted or are highly regulated.

Numerous predator-prey interactions occur in the RSA and range from top predators, such as cougar and wolves preying on ungulates, to owls preying on small mammals, fish feeding on frogs and invertebrates preying on one another. Wolves typically follow key prey species to and from winter ranges and congregate at certain sensitive habitats, such as lambing/calving areas. Ungulate prey distribution in the RSA and LSA during winter is directly related to snow accumulation. Habitat selection and use patterns, and condition and health of the prey species are also considered to be important considerations in the analysis of predator-prey interactions. Other ecological factors may include ease of prey location, time and energy required to subdue and kill the prey species, the “risk-of-injury” factor, whether prey species occur as individuals or in groups, snow conditions, ability of prey species to detect predators at a distance and escape, and diversity and abundance of available prey.

Several predator and prey species use the existing Trans Mountain alignment and other linear corridors year-round. These animals are believed to be foraging along the corridors but are also likely to use the cleared areas as movement corridors. A comparative representation of several predator and prey species’ use of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is presented in Table 5.37. This table is based on the results of winter tracking field work and summer habitat use surveys.

TABLE 5.37

PREDATOR AND PREY USE* OF THE EXISTING TRANS MOUNTAIN ALIGNMENT

Relative Use1 Predators Low Moderate High Unknown Wolf Cougar Lynx Fisher Coyote Owls Hawks Bats Prey Elk Moose Deer Bighorn sheep Snowshoe hare Mice, shrews, voles Squirrels Muskrat/Beaver Note: 1 shading indicates relative use of alignment

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5.2.9.5 Wildlife Mortality Wildlife mortality resulting from collisions with motor vehicles and trains in the LSA is one of the most challenging wildlife management issues facing Parks Canada and BC Parks, and wildlife managers in Alberta and BC. The transportation corridor within or adjacent to the LSA is used in every season of the year by numerous wildlife species. This trans-provincial corridor is used around the clock by freight and passenger trains, transport trucks, recreational vehicles, passenger cars and light trucks. The trend in wildlife-vehicle collisions is generally increasing despite the implementation of driver awareness programs, imposing reduced speed limits along Highway 16 and the implementation of measures to reduce wildlife-train collisions by CN Railway. Both JNP and MRPP have established restricted speed zones along Highway 16. The speed zones correspond to locations with a history of wildlife-vehicle collisions, key seasonal habitats and wildlife movement corridors. Locations in the LSA with high wildlife- vehicle collision potential are presented in Table 5.38.

Wildlife-vehicle collisions occur year-round; however, the peak mortality period appears to be in the fall and early winter months (September, October, November and December) and in the spring to early summer (April, May and June). These peak mortality periods correspond to seasons of the year when many wildlife species are moving to or from seasonal ranges, moving for breeding purposes or are attracted to the transportation corridors for road salt and fresh spring food sources such as roadside grasses and dandelions, which are a preferred spring food for grizzly bears in the LSA. Highways and rail lines in this LSA are used as movement corridors for several ungulates and carnivores during winter months because the snow depth is often lower in the transportation corridors than in adjacent, unploughed areas.

The highway and railway mortality information within JNP and MRPP is described below. This information is not available for the Alberta and BC segments of the Proposed Route. The number of wildlife-vehicle collisions reported represent only a fraction of the total number of animals killed within the transportation corridor annually.

Jasper National Park A summary of highway and railway mortality information for JNP is presented in Table 5.39. Within JNP, ungulates are most frequently killed in vehicle-wildlife and train-wildlife collisions followed by bears and wolves. Elk and bighorn sheep are most often killed along the highway and rail line east of Jasper townsite (KP/KL 380.0). Moose and wintering bull elk in the upper Miette River valley and moose in the Yellowhead Pass area appear to be the most vulnerable species west of Jasper townsite. Road salt is found to attract ungulates to the highway and bighorn sheep feeding on road salt were observed east of Jasper townsite (KP/KL 370.0 to KP/KL 372.0). Wildlife-vehicle collisions involving elk and deer occur year-round in JNP.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Within MRPP, moose and deer are most frequently killed in highway collisions, followed by bears (Table 5.40). Generally, the highest rate of highway mortality occurs during the winter months during times when moose use winter ranges within the valley bottom / transportation corridor, which is located in the LSA. Most highway and railway moose kills occur east of Red Pass (KL 449.0). Road kills of deer are more frequent in summer, which is probably related to the restrictive snow depth for deer in MRPP during winter months. Highway and railway deer kills most commonly occur west of Moose Lake (west of KL 449.0). Highway and railway collisions with elk occur most often in the Yellowhead Lake area (approximately KL 409.0 to KP/KL 414.0). Road kills within MRPP occur less frequently in fall and the fewest occur in spring.

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TABLE 5.38

LOCATIONS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA WITH HIGH WILDLIFE-VEHICLE COLLISION POTENTIAL

Restricted Speed Location Movement Zone on (KP/KL) Corridor Name Highway 16 Comments Alberta None None N/A N/A Jasper National Park KL 325.7 to KL 329.0 Fiddle River No Corridor from Fiddle River across Athabasca River. Used by elk and wolves. KL 336.0 to KL 337.5 Rocky River Yes (70 km) Corridor from Rocky River watershed across Athabasca River. Used by elk and wolves. KL/KP 365.0 to KP/KL 370.0 Palisades - No Movement corridor year-round use by elk, Athabasca River wolves and bighorn sheep. KP/KL 370.5 to KP/KL 372.0 Transfer Station Yes (70 km) High collision area-elk and bighorn sheep. KP/KL 374.0 to KP/KL 375.0 Cottonwood Yes (70 km) Deer, elk and bears. KP/KL 380.0 to KL 381.5 Whistlers Yes (70 km) Movement by wolves and elk. KP/KL 380.0 to KP/KL 405.9 Upper Miette Yes (70 km) Movement of elk, moose and wolves along Valley Miette valley west of the Jasper townsite to and from valley bottom winter ranges. Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 410.0 Yellowhead Pass Yes (80 km) High winter moose kill area. Important winter range and movement of moose from JNP to winter range in MRPP. Wolf dens nearby. KL 432.0 to KP/KL 434.0 Moose River- Yes (80 km) Moose River-Fraser River Corridor across Fraser River Highway important for moose, wolves and grizzly bear. KP/KL 446.0 to KL 450.0 Red Pass-Moose Yes (80 km) Movement area at west end of Moose Lake. Lake Important for moose year-round and grizzly bear spring green-up and berry season (July through August). British Columbia None None N/A N/A

TABLE 5.39

TOTAL NUMBER OF ANIMALS KILLED ON HIGHWAY 16 AND CN RAILWAY TRACKS IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK (1980-2004)

Species Highway 16 CN Railway Elk 849 430 Bighorn sheep 426 334 Mule deer 445 100 White-tailed deer 466 31 Moose 193 73 Mountain goat 19 0 Black bear 96 54 Wolf 39 21 Grizzly bear 3 11 Cougar 0 2 Wolverine 1 0 Red fox 1 0

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TABLE 5.40

TOTAL NUMBER OF ANIMALS KILLED ON HIGHWAY 16 AND CN RAILWAY TRACKS IN MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK (1988-1994)

Species Highway 16 CN Railway Moose 104 416 Deer (mule and white-tailed) 62 248 Bear (black and grizzly) 24 96 Elk 12 48 Porcupine 10 N/A Coyote 3 N/A Wolf 3 N/A Cougar 0 N/A Bighorn sheep 0 0

5.2.9.6 Large Ranging Carnivores Large ranging carnivores were selected as wildlife VECs because these species are of special status and management interest, are important indicators of ecological integrity and play an important role in the food-chain.

Grizzly Bears Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) are of special status under COSEWIC, in Alberta and BC and are discussed in Section 5.2.10.

Black Bears American black bears (Ursus americanus) are not currently considered at risk in Canada. Their habitat in Alberta is generally secure. Approximately 120,000 to 160,000 black bears are estimated to occur in the province of BC.

Like grizzly bears, home ranges of black bears vary in size depending on the age and sex of the bear, and where they live. Male bears generally have larger home ranges than female bears. In western Canada, female home ranges have been reported to be from 10 to 125 km2 and male home ranges from 55 to 500 km2. Black bears often travel along wildlife or human trails on valley bottoms and over low passes, but can include movement routes such as open forest edge, river and lake shorelines, ridges, dry creek beds, avalanche chutes, transmission line and pipeline rights-of-way, and logging roads. They can make extensive seasonal movements to areas of food abundance such as spring green-up sites, berry patches and garbage dumps.

Life History Diet and nutritional status has a strong influence on black bear population dynamics and habitat use. Black bears are opportunistic omnivores and alter their food habits according to the availability of food throughout the various seasons. Although a wide variety of animal matter is consumed, the major food items are graminoids, forbs and fruit. From den exit to mid-June main foods include over-wintered kinnikinnick berries, horsetails, grasses and sedges. From mid-June to mid-July, main foods include ants and ant larvae, forbs and some berries. From mid-July to the end of August, the main food is the fruit of soopolallie, red raspberries and ants. Post-berry season is from the end of August to den entry and the main foods include crowberry, kinnikinnick and juniper berries, bog cranberries, whitebark pine nuts, wasps, mammals and forbs.

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Black bears have a low reproductive rate, producing an average of one or two cubs. Breeding usually occurs from May through early July. The cubs usually remain with their mother for 1 year, and are chased away when she is ready to breed again. Black bears usually reach sexual maturity after four or five years. Important life cycle stages for black bears are presented in Table 5.43.

The timing and duration of denning varies between sex and age classes. Male bears usually den later and emerge earlier than females and pregnant females generally den for longer periods than do solitary females or females with yearlings. Like grizzly bears, black bears in Rocky Mountain populations likely enter their dens from mid-October to late November and remain in dens until mid-March to mid-May. Previous studies of black bears in Banff National Park showed that they den at approximately 1,700 m on predominately northeast to northwest facing slopes with gradients between 30 to 70%. Areas suitable for black bears dens include excavations under the roots of fallen trees and, to a lesser degree, rock crevices. Black bears do not generally reuse their dens.

Habitat Use After den emergence, most black bears move to valley bottoms or south facing slopes where snow melt is fastest. They largely subsist on emerging green vegetation that is digestible and high in protein such as horsetail, sedges, grasses and forbs. Black bears generally feed on this vegetation in open habitats such as wetlands (i.e., fens and swamps), wet meadows, snow-free seepage sites, river and lake shores, open canopy floodplain forests (i.e., young seral, mature, and old forest), early succession clearcuts (i.e., 5 to 15 years old), cleared and seeded roadsides, and, occasionally, residential lawns. Open, south-facing slopes with mixed stands of deciduous and coniferous forest also are well-used spring habitat in drier areas. Some black bears climb tall poplars to feed on the sprouting new catkins. Throughout the spring, black bears will scavenge winter killed and avalanche killed animals if available and they will prey on deer fawns or elk or moose calves shortly after the young are born. Avalanche slopes and wet seepage areas on south-facing slopes are favoured feeding areas as snowmelt proceeds upslope.

In early summer, black bears may feed on insects, particularly ants, before berries ripen. Downed woody debris and old stumps are a rich source of ants. Black bears find an abundance of forbs and ripening berries in forest openings, clearcuts, avalanche slopes, and old burns in summer and fall. Low elevation valley bottoms within the Montane Ecoregion have been found to be important feeding habitat for black bears.

Black bears use shrub and tree cover to avoid conflicts with other black bears or with grizzly bears. Females with cubs rely on available trees that they can climb as security habitat. Black bears typically avoid high-traffic roads (e.g., highways or active logging roads) and human settlements, unless attracted by an atypical food source (e.g., garbage, seeded clover and grasses).

Wolf The gray wolf (Canis lupus) is the largest member of the dog family (Canidae) and is widely distributed throughout Canada. In western Canada, wolves range from southwest Alberta north to the border of the Northwest Territories and throughout most of BC. Wolf management practices in both Alberta and BC involved extermination efforts as part of predator and rabies control programs. These practices and other factors caused major declines in wolf populations. Populations have rebounded now with more modern management approaches.

In JNP, three wolf packs occur in the LSA, the Devona Pack of the upper Athabasca Valley, the Three Valley Pack of the Miette River area and the Yellowhead Pack, of the Yellowhead Pass area and into MRPP. There are several wolf packs in the LSA of the MRPP segment and numerous dens are located in the Yellowhead Pass and Yellowhead Lake area. Important life cycle stages for wolves are presented in Table 5.43.

Wolves are capable of making long-ranging movements within their home ranges to forage and to maintain their territories. Although wolves can make use of travel corridors, they will strongly avoid roads and trails that are heavily used by humans and choose to move along trails with reduced human activity. Wolves were found to move along the Project Footprint.

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Wolves typically breed in their second or third year of maturity and mating occurs from February to March. Females give birth from late-April to early-June to 4 to 5 pups and use one or more den sites. Wolf pups stay at the den site for the first two months of life before the female moves them to rendezvous sites.

Natural sources of wolf mortality include starvation, disease (e.g., mange), incidental death during predation attempts, and predation by bears and other wolves. Road kills are also a large source of mortality in the LSA. Wolf populations fluctuate locally in response to prey availability and disease.

Wolf habitat needs are related to the habitat needs of their prey. They are found in several habitat types throughout the montane ecoregion in the LSA, but are often closely associated with ungulate winter ranges. Wolf dens and rendezvous sites are also often associated with water. The Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat is particularly important. Wolves also utilize Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat and Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat for hunting and other pack-related activities.

Cougar The cougar (Puma concolour) is the largest member of the cat family (Felidae) and is also referred to as mountain lion, puma and panther. In Canada, cougars are presently found in the mountains of western Canada and the adjacent foothills. In BC, cougars range from northern BC to the US border and in Alberta, cougars are found along the Rocky Mountains and their foothills.

Within JNP, winter tracking data suggest that cougars are relatively rare. They are most common at low elevations in remote areas that are near abundant prey sources and, as such, inhabit mostly the montane ecoregion.

The home ranges of female cougars are typically smaller (55 km2 in southeastern BC, 140 km2, in south- western Alberta) than those of males (151 km2 in southeast BC, 334 km2 in southwest Alberta). The population density of cougars tends to be relatively low (3 to 5 individuals per 100 km2).

Cougars can breed at any time of the year and give birth to 2 to 3 kittens, on average. Females typically use caves or rock crevices as dens but can use overhanging banks, under-root masses or inside hollow trees. Typical prey items include deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and moose. Sources of mortality to cougars are mostly human-related due to human-cougar contact and road mortality.

Like other large predators, the habitat requirements of cougars are dictated by habitat requirements of their prey. Cougars were found to prefer Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat.

Lynx The lynx (Lynx canadensis) is the most common member of the cat family (Felidae) and is widespread throughout the temperate forests of North America, including the RSA. Lynx population sizes are difficult to estimate, due to dramatic population fluctuations. Based on the habitat and location of the RSA, a density of 8 to 20 lynx per 100 km2 can be expected, which leads to a population estimate of 700 to 1,900 lynx in the RSA.

The distribution and abundance of lynx is closely tied to the distribution of its principal prey item, the snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus). Hare populations cycle in abundance every 8 to 11 years in the northern boreal forests. In these areas, lynx also undergo dramatic population fluctuations, often lagging several years behind hares. Lynx are thought to mate in March to early-April and give birth in late-May. Denning requirements include minimal human disturbance, travel corridors between den and foraging sites, proximity to foraging sites and large, contiguous forests.

Lynx can avoid most human interaction because of their secretive nature and their nocturnal foraging habits. Lynx are most active in habitats where snowshoe hares thrive, such as in early-successional conifer forests with dense understory. They generally prefer Pine Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, and Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat.

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Wolverine The wolverine (Gulo gulo) is of special status under COSEWIC, in BC and Alberta and is discussed in Section 5.2.10.

Fisher Fishers (Martes pennanti) are medium-sized terrestrial carnivores of the weasel family (Mustelidae) and are distributed across the temperate and boreal forest regions of North America. In western Canada, fishers occur throughout central and northeast BC and in the central and western region of Alberta.

It is estimated that fisher population densities are relatively low, i.e., 1 per 146 km2. In BC, the mean size for male and female home ranges is 137 km2 and 35 km2 respectively. These values are substantially larger that those reported for fishers in Alberta (males: 24 km2, females: 15 km2). Based on this density, an approximate population of 40 to 80 fishers in the RSA can be extrapolated. Individuals of the same sex maintain exclusive home ranges and, although solitary, fishers will typically interact when defending these territories.

Fishers will also interact during the mating season, which peaks in early April. Fishers reproduce by delayed implantation and typically give birth to 1 to 3 kits in late winter. During this time, females have very specific habitat requirement. Females use the cavities of large-diameter, decomposing, deciduous trees such as balsam poplar to give birth and rear their young. Fishers have low adult survivorship and a low reproductive rate.

Fishers are generalist opportunistic predators. In BC, fishers most commonly eat snowshoe hares. Red squirrels, southern red-backed voles and porcupines also constitute an important part of fisher diets.

Although fishers can occupy a wide range of environments, they typically select habitats that provide overhead cover, which is often found in late-successional forests. In the LSA, this tends to be conifer- dominated forests. In the LSA, important habitats for fishers include Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat and Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat.

Activity that threatens the use or persistence of large stands of mature forest and snags, hollow live trees, logs, rock piles and other structures for natal, maternal and rest sites can affect fisher activity and presence in an area. In particular, habitat alteration due to logging activities (e.g., thinning, salvage harvesting) and forest fires can affect forest structure by either removing large trees, reducing structural complexity or from preventing forests from maturing.

Field Results During the winter tracking surveys in February 2005, large ranging carnivores that were identified included black bear, wolf, lynx and fisher. These species occur at low densities throughout the LSA, and that locations of single sightings do not necessarily indicate important habitat features. Black bears were often observed, and images of black bears were captured by the remotely triggered wildlife camera in a variety of habitat types in the Project Footprint. No grizzly bears were observed or recorded by the wildlife camera or field crews in the Project Footprint during the 2004-2005 field seasons. Cougar and wolverine tracks were not observed in the LSA during the winter surveys, which is not surprising given the low densities and secretive nature of these species. Although no cougars or cougar sign was noted, they can be expected to use habitats in the LSA. Wolf tracks were found throughout the LSA, but there were no wolf dens identified within the Project Footprint. Lynx and fisher detections were limited to MRPP. Lynx can, however, be expected at low densities in the LSA. Table 5.41 presents a summary of incidental sightings of these large-ranging carnivores, while Table 5.42 and Figure 5.3 identify important habitats and habitat features known to occur in the LSA.

Section 5.2.9.4 describes how predators may use the existing Trans Mountain pipeline and other linear corridors for foraging and travel. The number of wolves moving along the alignment of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline by far exceeds the number of wolf movements across the alignment. In combination with a high level of detection of wolves, this indicates that wolves likely use the existing Trans Mountain

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Alberta Of the large-ranging carnivores, the only species detected in the Project Footprint of the Alberta segment was black bear. The sighting was near the JNP east gate in the Fiddle River area. There were no grizzly bear, cougar, lynx, wolverine, or fishers, or signs of habitat use by these species observed in the Project Footprint in Alberta. The lack of snow during winter track surveys and the high vegetative cover on existing easements prohibited track identification and, therefore, detection of these species.

Jasper National Park Grizzly bear tracks and evidence of a fresh kill were found in JNP. The most frequent sightings of tracks in JNP were in the Wetland, Shrub, Riparian Forest Habitat type. Tracks were found in the Fiddle River to Pocahontas area, the Athabasca River crossing area, in the Three Valley Confluence area, and in the Miette River valley. Black bears were also commonly observed in the forested portions of the Project Footprint, especially in the Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and the Pine Forest Habitat types.

A single lynx sighting in the Project Footprint was recorded during a summer survey. There were no records of fisher tracks or fisher sightings in the LSA in JNP. There were numerous wolf tracks throughout the LSA of this segment of the Proposed Route, especially in the Decoigne area and Yellowhead pass.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Grizzly bear tracks were encountered frequently throughout the Project Footprint within MRPP. In MRPP avalanche tracks and forested habitats preferred by grizzly bears are generally closer to the Proposed Route than in JNP. Grizzly bears have been observed along Highway 16 in MRPP north of Moose Lake feeding on dandelions in the spring (usually May). Black bears were commonly observed in all habitat types crossed by the Proposed Route within MRPP.

Wolves use the western portions of the LSA within MRPP as summer range. Lynx were noted in the Project Footprint at two locations during winter tracking surveys. Evidence of fishers was recorded in the Project Footprint during spring surveys at three locations within MRPP.

Lynx tracks were found in Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat. The fisher detection was in Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat.

British Columbia Grizzly bear tracks were observed in the Project Footprint of the BC segment and black bears were also observed in the habitat types crossed by the Proposed Route within BC.

TABLE 5.41

INCIDENTAL SIGHTINGS OF LARGE-RANGING CARNIVORES IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA DURING THE 2004-2005 FIELD SEASONS

Location Species Details Alberta KP/KL 324.0 to KL 325.7 Black bear sighting Jasper National Park KL 325.7 to KL 334.5 Black bear sightings KL 336.0 to KL 337.5 Black bear sightings KP/KL 356.5 Grizzly bear kill site KP/KL 347.0 Lynx sightings

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TABLE 5.41 Cont'd

Location Species Details KP/KL 370.5 to KP/KL 394.5 Black bear sightings KL 402.0 to KP/KL 405.9 Grizzly bear tracks Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 466.3 Black bear tracks and sightings KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 410.0 Grizzly bear tracks KL 408.0 Lynx tracks KP/KL 433.5 to KP/KL 449.0 Grizzly bear tracks KP/KL 441.5 Fisher tracks KP/KL 442.5 Fisher tracks KP/KL 463.0 to KP/KL 466.3 Grizzly bear tracks KP/KL 449.0 Lynx tracks KL 451.0 Fisher tracks British Columbia KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 466.5 Grizzly bear tracks KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 468.0 Black bear tracks

TABLE 5.42

LARGE-RANGING CARNIVORE HABITATS AND HABITAT FEATURES IDENTIFIED IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Location Species Details Alberta None None None Jasper National Park KP/KL 337.0 Wolf Devona Pack, dens and rendezvous site, approximately 1 km north of Proposed Route KP/KL 341.0 to KP/KL 343.0 Wolf Devona Pack, dens and rendezvous site KP/KL 351.0 to KP/KL 355.0 Grizzly bear Snaring River area KP/KL 380.0 to KP/KL 390.0 Grizzly bear Upper Miette KP/KL 396.0 to KP/KL 405.0 Grizzly bear Decoigne area KP/KL 402.0 Wolf Yellowhead Pack, dens and rendezvous site approximately 2 km north of Proposed Route Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 406.0 Wolf Yellowhead Pack, dens and rendezvous site, 500 m south of Proposed Route KP/KL 409.0 Wolf Yellowhead Pack, dens and rendezvous site KP/KL 432.0 to KP/KL 455.0 Grizzly bear upper Fraser River watershed KL 451.3 to KP/KL 466.3 Black bear Summer range KL 451.3 to KP/KL 466.3 Wolf Summer range (also used by black bear and ungulates) British Columbia KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 467.1 Black bear Summer range KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 467.1 Wolf Summer range

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TABLE 5.43

IMPORTANT WILDLIFE LIFE CYCLE STAGES Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Species/Habitat Location Along the Proposed Route Important Life Cycle Stage 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15 1 15

Ranges

Elk calving/ sheep lambing KP/KL 329.0 to KP/KL 358.0 May 1 - June 30 area* KP/KL 365.6 to KP/KL 377.6

Windy Point (KP/KL 349.0 to KP/KL 350.7) Bighorn sheep rutting area November 1 - 30** Jasper (KP/KL 372.0 to KP/KL 375.0)

Migratory breeding birds Entire Project area May 1 - July 31

Important ungulate winter West of Jasper townsite January 15 - March 30 Range (KP/KL 380.0 to KP/KL 406.0)

KP/KL 339.0 to KP/KL 351.0 Moose and elk rut September 1 - October 31 KP/KL 374.0 to KP/KL 406.0

Jasper townsite (KP/KL 380.0) to Bear sensitive periods April 20 - June 10 Red Pass (KP/KL 433.0)

Site-Specific

Important waterfowl nesting areas Wetlands and important (mainly in wetlands) (see Table 5.46 and May 15 - July 15 waterfowl nesting areas* Figure 5.4)

Harlequin duck pre-nesting Sucker Creek (KP/KL 371.9) May 15 - June 30 staging areas*

Mineral licks* None identified on Project Footprint May 1 - July 31

Wolf and coyote dens See Table 5.42 and Table 5.45 March 15 - June 15

Bear dens* None identified on Project Footprint November 1 - March 30

Active owl nests* None identified on Project Footprint Feb 15 - June 1

Active hawk, osprey and None identified on Project Footprint April 1 - July 15 eagle nest*

Wetlands of importance to Wetland areas (see Table 5.51) April 15 - July 15 amphibians

Notes: Shading represents approximate timing of life cycle stage. * Taken from Best Available Methods for Common Leaseholder Activities in Jasper National Park (Axys 1998). ** Based on timing of bighorn sheep rut in Holroyd and vanTighem (1983).

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5.2.9.7 Ungulates

Moose Moose (Alces alces) are the largest member of the deer family (Cervidae) and are widely distributed in western Alberta and throughout BC. Approximately 2,000 to 4,000 moose are believed to occur in the RSA based on density estimates for similar mountainous habitat types. Predation, disease, limited winter range and mortalities caused by collisions with highway traffic and trains are considered the most critical factors affecting moose populations in the LSA. Summer home ranges are between 5 and 10 km2, and winter home ranges average approximately 20 km2. Moose are known to travel great distances and typically will move up to 50 km between summer and winter ranges.

Moose depend on willows, red osier dogwood, birch, Saskatoon, balsam poplar, aspen, high-bush cranberry and other shrubs commonly found in mixedwood forests, riparian areas and wetlands of the RSA for food during the winter months. Aquatic plants like sedges, horsetail and pondweeds as well as the leaves of shrubs, trees and herbs are used for food in the spring and summer months. Fire successional vegetation also provides important year-round food resources for moose.

Moose mate in the LSA from September to early November. Pregnant female moose seek secluded areas along watercourses, in forested areas, islands and at the edges of wetlands as calving sites. Calving occurs after a gestation period of 8 months, usually in May or June. Single births are common but twins are produced by 10 to 20% of adult cows. Wildlife habitats identified as Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat and Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat are considered to have the highest suitability for moose.

Elk Rocky mountain elk, or wapiti (Cervus elaphus) were commonly observed year-round in the LSA, especially in JNP. Elk populations are currently considered stable and not threatened by habitat alterations. Elk populations are estimated at approximately 26,000 elk in Alberta and approximately 40,000 in BC. The elk population in JNP is estimated to be approximately 1,500 animals. A census of the LSA revealed a population size of approximately 400 to 500 elk.

Elk are primarily grazers consuming grasses and forbs throughout the day. They also browse on willow, aspen, and a variety of other shrubs in the fall, winter and early spring months. Elk rutting occurs from September through November and elk form breeding harems during this time. Cows give birth to a single calf between May and early June following an 8.5 month gestation period, and the time between May 1 to June 30 is considered important elk calving period. Calving areas are often located in areas with dense cover such as riverine and riparian habitats. Predation and mortalities caused by collisions with highway traffic and trains were reported to be the most important factors affecting elk populations in the LSA.

In the Project Footprint and LSA, the wildlife habitat types identified as Grasslands and Dry Slope Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, and the Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat are important year-round habitats for elk. In the areas of higher snow accumulation such as the Miette River valley and Yellowhead Pass area, the Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat is known to be important to elk.

Deer Two species of deer occur in the LSA: mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). These two species are common throughout the LSA.

Mule Deer In Alberta, mule deer populations are estimated at approximately 133,000 animals. 165,000 mule deer are estimated to occur in the interior of BC. Population estimates of mule deer in the LSA are not available, however, the population of mule deer in JNP is reported to be relatively stable.

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The diet of mule deer varies with season. In spring, summer and early fall they eat grasses, forbs, almost all woody shrubs including willow, Saskatoon berry and rose. In winter they eat shrubs, twigs of low- hanging trees, dead leaves and virtually anything that will provide nutrition. Mule deer rutting season typically occurs in November and early December. Fawns are born after a 7-month gestation period in late May through June. Does generally give birth in secluded areas. Predation (wolves and coyotes), starvation, collisions with trains and vehicles on roads and highways are the main causes of death.

Mule deer habitat preference is for semi-open, broken terrain. During the summer months some mule deer move out of the valley bottom into the subalpine and alpine regions of the parks. They move downslope in the fall and early winter to avoid deep snow and occupy suitable low-elevation winter range. In March, mule deer were noted to take advantage of new green vegetation found on the south- and southwesterly-facing slopes that are used as winter range. These early green-up areas are often vital to the survival of deer. Important habitat types for mule deer in the LSA include Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat.

White-tailed Deer The white-tailed deer is the most widely distributed and abundant ungulate in the western hemisphere and in BC, there are an estimated 65,000 white-tailed deer. Population estimates in the LSA are not available but the population size of white-tailed deer appears to be increasing.

Food habitats are similar to the mule deer and recent burn sites and floodplain habitats with grass and browse plant cover are preferred habitats year-round. Rutting season typically begins in November and fawns are born in May and early June. Twins are usual; however, single births and triplets are not uncommon. White-tailed deer have adapted to thrive in association with human settlements. There is evidence that white-tailed deer may hybridize with mule deer in the LSA.

This species often occurs in the same valley bottom and lower slope habitats as mule deer. The depth of snow is the main factor in determining the distribution of white-tailed deer in winter. The most common causes of white-tailed deer mortality are believed to be predation and collisions with highway traffic and trains. Important habitat types for white-tailed deer in the LSA include Grasslands and Dry Slope Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat.

Bighorn Sheep Rocky mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) ranges in the LSA are restricted to areas east of Jasper townsite. The biology of bighorn sheep is well documented in JNP. Populations appear to be relatively stable and occur in all suitable habitats.

Rutting season for bighorn sheep in the LSA generally occurs from early November to mid-December. After a 6.5 to 7 month gestation period, lambs are born in May and June. Pregnant ewes usually leave their social group and isolate themselves in protected, rugged lambing areas. These areas are often close to the winter ranges. Wolf, coyotes, cougars and golden eagle are the main predators of bighorn sheep in the LSA. Railroad and highway deaths are also common in JNP. The carrying capacity of sheep ranges is believed to be the main factor limiting the sheep population in the LSA. Aerial surveys revealed that there are approximately 300 to 500 bighorn sheep in the LSA.

Bighorn sheep often share low elevation grassland and lower slope grazing areas with elk, especially in winter months. Bighorns often leave winter ranges in May and June for summer pastures on the same mountain or travel up to 30 km to distant alpine ranges. Sheep typically return to their winter ranges in September and October. Bighorn sheep in the LSA are generally found in the Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat type and the Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat.

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Mountain Goat Mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) occur in the RSA, however, no suitable mountain goat habitat lies in the LSA. Mountain goats spend most of their lives near timberline or in the alpine regions of the RSA. They occasionally move to lower elevations to visit mineral licks or travel between alpine ranges.

Woodland Caribou Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) are of special status under COSEWIC, in Alberta and BC and are discussed in Section 5.2.10.

Field Results Ungulate species recorded during the winter tracking surveys in February 2005 included moose, elk, deer and bighorn sheep. Table 5.44 and Figure 5.3 present ungulate or ungulate sign occurrences and locations of important ungulate habitats. Important life cycle stages for several ungulate species are presented in Table 5.43.

Moose were found to occur in low densities throughout the LSA. Detections of moose tracks occurred in all but one of the habitats of the LSA sampled, the Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat. Moose sign (tracks, pellet groups, browse sign) and sightings confirmed that moose occur year-round in the LSA. Several winter ranges used by moose are traversed by the Proposed Route. Throughout the LSA, moose move to higher elevations during the summer into the ungulate summer ranges, which are not crossed by the Project Footprint.

Elk were detected in all habitat types except for the Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat. They were detected mostly east of Yellowhead Lake in MRPP. Grasslands and open canopy forests of the LSA were used by elk herds ranging in summer from the montane to the subalpine ecoregions. In winter, elk usually concentrate in the montane ecoregion.

Deer detections occurred throughout the LSA in all habitats sampled. Mule deer were found to occur throughout the LSA, generally in the montane ecoregion, often adjacent to escape habitat on lower slopes. White-tailed deer were often observed throughout the LSA.

Bighorn sheep use alpine and subalpine habitats of the RSA in the summer months. During the fall, winter and spring months, the montane ecoregion, especially south-facing dry slopes of the LSA, were found to be important rutting, feeding and lambing areas.

No clear pattern of ungulate use or avoidance of the habitats within the existing Trans Mountain pipeline alignment was found during 2005 winter tracking surveys. Moose signs (tracks, pellet groups, browse sign) and sightings confirmed that they frequently use the existing Trans Mountain pipeline alignment for browsing and movement within their home range. Elk and deer showed a slightly greater tendency to move across the pipeline, indicating they may be seeking security habitat.

Alberta The Project Footprint of the Alberta segment traverses ungulate winter range. In the winter, white-tailed deer utilize habitats in the Project Footprint in Alberta. Moose, elk and mule deer tracks were observed throughout this segment and bighorn sheep were observed near Drystone Creek in July 2005 (Table 5.44).

Jasper National Park In the JNP segment of the LSA, moose were most frequently found in alluvial wetlands and riparian habitats along the Miette River and its tributaries, west of the Jasper townsite. Although no moose calving locations were confirmed in the LSA, the Project Footprint crosses suitable moose calving habitat (Table 5.44). In JNP, moose were found to utilize the Pocahontas Ponds along the Athabasca River and the large sedge-dominated wetlands in the Miette River corridor as winter ranges.

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Within JNP, areas of particular importance to elk included the Athabasca River valley through the Devona, Windy Point, Moberly and Palisades Area past Jasper townsite. Elk wintered within the montane ecoregion of the LSA and bull elk concentrate on winter range in the wetlands and riparian habitats along the Miette River, west of the Jasper townsite following the October-November rutting season. These habitats are important to elk between December and February. Islands in the Athabasca River are reported to be commonly used by elk as calving areas.

In JNP, mule deer habitat can be found in the Project Footprint in areas east of Jasper townsite, especially between Devona Flats and Snaring Warden Station. In the winter, white-tailed deer utilize habitats in the Project Footprint of the Proposed Route in JNP, although likely at greater densities in the lower snowpack areas east of Jasper townsite (KP/KL 380.0).

Mineral licks used by mountain goats occur in the RSA on the lower slopes of the Miette Range but are located approximately 1.5 km south of the Proposed Route on the opposite side of the Athabasca River.

Bighorn sheep are commonly observed along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline in the Athabasca valley east of the Jasper townsite. During the fall, winter and spring months, south-facing dry slopes of the LSA (e.g., Devona to Windy Point) were found to be important feeding and lambing areas (Plate 5A.29). Important bighorn sheep winter, rutting and lambing areas occur upslope of Jasper Lake, including Windy Point, and at Pyramid Ridge east of Jasper townsite.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Moose were most frequently found in the Project Footprint throughout the Yellowhead Pass area and most lower-elevation habitats in MRPP. In MRPP, much of the Proposed Route is aligned next to the highway, or upslope or away from preferred wetland habitat and suitable calving habitat will not be affected. Moose winter in wetlands along the Fraser River including the Moose Lake marsh.

Elk in MRPP are observed in a variety of low elevation and lower slope habitat types in the summer months. Elk were observed foraging on the existing Trans Mountain pipeline where it parallels the Proposed Route during summer and were recorded on the cleared alignments near Moose Lake. During the winter, elk tend to select south-facing lower slopes often characterized by Douglas-fir, trembling aspen or lodgepole pine stands. An ungulate winter range following the valley bottom of the Fraser River from Yellowhead Lake to Moose Lake provides suitable elk wintering habitat, although snow depth may be prohibitive in a high snowfall year. However, this ungulate winter range may be more suitable for moose. Known ungulate winter ranges used by mule deer and white-tailed deer in the LSA of the MRPP segment are listed in Table 5.44 and Figure 5.3.

There is no mountain goat habitat and no bighorn sheep ranges in the LSA of the MRPP segment.

British Columbia The Project Footprint of the BC segment traverses moose, elk and deer summer and winter ranges. The nearest mountain goat habitat to the Proposed Route is located approximately 1.6 km upslope of the Proposed Route on Klapperhorn Mountain. There were no bighorn sheep observed in the Project Footprint of this segment of the Proposed Route.

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TABLE 5.44

UNGULATE OCCURRENCES AND IMPORTANT HABITATS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Location Species Details Alberta KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 325.7 White-tailed deer Winter habitat KP/KL 316.9 to KL 325.7 Ungulates Winter range KP/KL 325.0 Bighorn sheep Occurrence Jasper National Park KP/KL 325.7 to KP/KL 380.0 White-tailed deer Winter habitat KP/KL 330.0 to KP/KL 358.0 Elk Calving area KL 331.0 to KL 337.0 Moose Calving habitat and winter range KL 335.0 to KP/KL 380.0 Elk Important habitat KP/KL 338.0 to KP/KL 355.0 Mule deer Important habitat KP/KL 341.0 to KP/KL 351.0 Bighorn sheep Winter range KP/KL 349.5 to KP/KL 352.0 Bighorn sheep Rutting range and lambing area KP/KL 366.0 to KP/KL 379.0 Elk Calving area KP/KL 370.0 to KP/KL 374.0 Bighorn sheep Rutting and lambing areas, summer and winter range KL 381.0 to KP/KL 388.0 Moose Calving habitat KP/KL 390.0 to KP/KL 405.9 Moose Winter range and calving habitat KP/KL 391.0 to KP/KL 405.9 Elk Winter range (bull elk) Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 407.5 Elk Occurrence KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 409.0 Elk Winter range (bull elk) KP/KL 405.9 to KP/KL 436.0 Moose Occurrence KP/KL 405.9 to KL 409.7 Moose Winter range KP/KL 414.0 to KP/KL 437.0 Moose, elk, mule deer, white- Winter range tailed deer KP/KL 436.0 Elk Occurrence KP/KL 441.0 to KP/KL 451.0 Mule deer, white-tailed deer Winter range KP/KL 451.0 to KP/KL 466.3 Ungulate Summer range KP/KL 455.5 to KP/KL 465.0 Moose Occurrence Btitish Columbia KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 467.2 Ungulate Summer range KP/KL 467.2 to KP/KL 468.0 Ungulate Winter range

5.2.9.8 Small to Medium-sized Mammals Small and medium-sized mammals were selected as wildlife VECs since this group is important in the food-chain, being both predators (e.g., coyote and small members of the weasel family) and prey (e.g., snowshoe hare, mice, voles, squirrels and porcupine). Some members of this group are of special management interest (e.g., river otter) and others are important for wildlife viewing (e.g., bats, beaver and muskrat).

Coyote Coyotes (Canis latrans) are medium-sized members of the canid family (Plate 5A.30). Home ranges of coyotes are between 10 km2 and 40 km2, and daily movements of several kilometres are common. Densities of coyotes in Alberta vary between one and six coyotes per 10 km2, depending on food cycles and other habitat factors. The population in the RSA is estimated to be between 1,000 to 5,000 animals.

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Coyotes are generalist and opportunistic feeders, relying on small mammals (snowshoe hare, ground and tree squirrels, voles and mice), road kills and young or weakened deer and elk. They are known to scavenge kills by larger predators. Coyotes may range as individuals or in packs up to 8 to 10 animals composed of adults, yearlings and young. They are crepuscular and, consequently, most observations in the LSA were made at dawn or dusk.

Coyotes breed in late winter (early February to mid-March), and, after a gestation period of 60 to 63 days, an average of 5 to 6 pups are born between April and May. Dens are generally burrows dug into soil banks or depressions under rock edges, hollow logs and thickets. Newborn pups are blind and helpless, and receive care from both parents and other pack members. At 4 to 5 months of age, they can become independent of their parents.

Coyotes can be found in all of the habitat types of the LSA, but are particularly well adapted to open and unforested habitats such as those of the Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat, and Pine Forest Habitat.

Snowshoe Hare Snowshoe hare were found throughout the LSA and using habitats of the Project Footprint. Snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), also known as varying hare, are members of the hares and rabbits family (Leporidae).

Snowshoe hare are among the most common forest mammals, due to their active reproductive tactics of producing between two to four litters each summer. Litters contain between 1 to 13 precocious young (fully furred and eyes open). Breeding begins in March and continues through the summer. Numerous predators rely on snowshoe hare, including mammals such as lynx, red fox, coyote and mink, and birds such as great horned owl and northern goshawk. It is this predation pressure that drives the population cycle of snowshoe hare with peaks occurring approximately every 10 years. When the hare population peaks, densities of 500 to 600 hares per km2 can be reached.

They utilize forest habitats with high canopy and subcanopy cover, such as provided by Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat, Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat, and some Wetland Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitats.

Mice, Shrews and Voles Small rodents and insectivores occur throughout the LSA. Species using the LSA include deer mouse (Peromycus maniculatus), bushy-tailed woodrat (Neotoma cinerea), southern red-backed vole (Clethrionomys gapperi), northern bog lemming (Synaptomys borealis), and heather vole (Phenacomys interneclius). Insectivores using the LSA include common shrew (Sorex cinereus), dusky shrew (Sorex monticolus), and water shrew (Sorex palustris).

These small mammal species are important food sources to a large variety of birds, such as northern saw-whet owl, sharp-shinned hawk and northern shrike, and mammals, such as coyotes and weasels. Due to its invasive nature, no small mammal trapping was conducted as part of the Project wildlife investigations. Small rodent species are associated with all of the habitat types within the Project Footprint. Insectivores tend to be associated with the Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat.

Squirrels and Chipmunks Tree squirrels, ground squirrels and chipmunks are members of the squirrel family (Sciuridae) that occur in the LSA. Species of tree squirrels that are found in the LSA include red squirrel (Tamaiscirus hudsonicus) and northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus). Ground squirrels include Columbia ground squirrel (Spermophilus columbianus) and golden mantled ground squirrel (Spermophilus lateralis). Chipmunks in the area include yellow pine chipmunk (Tamais amoenus) and least chipmunk (Tamais minimus). These species are important prey items to a large assemblage of predatory birds (examples include northern goshawk and red-tailed hawk) and mammals, such as coyotes, weasels and martens.

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Red squirrels were a very commonly detected species in the LSA. They are associated with forested habitats including some Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitats, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat.

Due to their nocturnal habits, northern flying squirrels were not often detected in the LSA. They utilize similar habitats to red squirrels as listed above. Although there is evidence of red squirrels crossing the existing Trans Mountain pipeline and other linear features, both red squirrels and northern flying squirrels are known to avoid crossing linear features as a predator avoidance strategy.

Columbian ground squirrels utilize forest edges and openings, and are characteristically associated with Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat. Colonies are often established on grasslands used by elk as winter range. Both ground squirrels and elk grazing serve to keep the range in good condition in this symbiotic relationship.

Golden-mantled ground squirrels are associated with rock outcrops and talus slopes, which may occur in any of the habitat types crossed by the Project Footprint. No colonies were identified within the Project Footprint. Yellow-pine chipmunks are found in open coniferous forests and grassy areas, such as Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, and Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat. Least chipmunk is found in brushy or rocky areas of coniferous forests, such as Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat and Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat.

Bats Seven species of bats may live in the LSA. These are: little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), western long- eared myotis (M. evotis), northern long-eared myotis (M. septentrionalis), long-legged myotis (M. volans), big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) and hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus).

Bats require a wide variety of habitats for foraging, roosting and hibernation. All bat species in the LSA eat insects; therefore, foraging habitat includes any habitat that provides insects and can be flown through. Long-eared species are the most manoeuvrable of the bats and forage in open forests, while little brown and long-legged myotis may focus on wetlands and riparian areas. Larger species such as the big brown, silver-haired and hoary bats require more open habitat, and may forage above the forest canopy, along roads or cliff edges, and over wetlands.

Bats roost during the day, either alone or in maternity colonies. Roosts can be in old forests, under flakes of bark, or in cracks, knotholes or cavities in large-diameter trees. Deciduous trees (particularly Populus species), Douglas-fir, pine, and western redcedar all provide roosting habitat. South-facing cliffs and rocky outcrops also provide excellent roosting habitat. Several species use human buildings, which can house large maternity colonies.

Some species of bats are migratory (e.g., silver-haired bat), while others likely hibernate close to their summering areas. Very little is known about hibernation sites in BC and Alberta, however, the presence of limestone in the Rocky Mountains suggests that there probably are cave hibernacula in the RSA. Several species of bats may use the Project Footprint for foraging and commuting. Linear features may lead to accumulations of insects at the forest edge, or may provide visual clues for ease of travel. Any snags along the edge of the Project Footprint may provide prime roosting habitat due to ease of access and increased solar exposure along the route.

In the LSA and RSA, habitats with high suitability for foraging include: Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, and any Grassland or Forested Habitat types with open structure. Habitats with high suitability for roosting include Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat, Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat, and possibly Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat. Other forest types with emergent trees or snags may also provide roosting habitat.

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Porcupine Porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) occur throughout much of northern and western North America. These rodents are thought to be common throughout their North American range, although recent anecdotal evidence of their decline is mounting. In the RSA, porcupines can be found from valley bottoms to alpine areas, although the subalpine areas receive the most use.

They are generally solitary and are active year-round, Porcupines are generally nocturnal, but will forage during the day in winter. In winter, their primary food is the inner bark of trees, but also the needles and bark as well as other plants. During summer, they feed on leaves of a variety of shrubs and herbs including alder, poplar, willow, rose, violets, clovers and grasses.

Porcupines breed in September to October and give birth to a single porcupine between March and May. Birthing generally occurs in rock piles, or under log stumps or brush piles. Porcupines are well developed at birth, with protective quills hardening after one hour. Predators of porcupines include coyote, cougar, red fox, lynx, bear, wolf and fisher. Anthropogenic causes of mortality include road kills, trapping and hunting.

The Pine Forest Habitat is the most important habitat to porcupines in the LSA.

Beaver and Muskrat Beaver (Castor canadensis) and the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) are aquatic rodents that occur in wetlands and riparian habitats throughout the LSA.

Muskrats are associated with standing fresh water (marshes, lakes or ponds) or slow-moving water. They are most productive in permanent waterbodies that are sufficiently shallow to support aquatic vegetation (cattails, bulrushes, sedges or horsetails), but deep enough to not freeze to the bottom in winter. In the LSA of the JNP segment, such conditions exist in the Pocahontas area, in wetlands near the Snaring Warden Station, wetlands below the Pallisades, the Miette River wetlands. In the LSA of the MRPP segment, wetlands associated with Yellowhead Lake, Witney Lake and Moose Lake provide appropriate habitat.

Muskrats live in lodges constructed by piling coarse vegetation with layers of mud and hollowing them out to form dry den cavities. They also construct support and cover structures including vegetation platforms and mini lodges in summer (termed feeding huts) and winter (termed push-ups). Muskrats primarily feed on cattails, but also consume the shoots, roots, bulbs and leaves of bulrushes, horsetails, sedges, duck weeds and pond weeds, as well as terrestrial plants such as grasses, clovers and various forbs.

Beavers are a keystone species, since their industrious dam building and woodcutting activities cause extensive changes to their ecosystems. Optimal beaver habitats are along slow-moving sections of rivers and streams, and on ponds and lake shores not exposed to heavy wave action. Wetlands and riparian habitats in the LSA of the JNP segment that provide important beaver habitat include the Pocahontas area and the Miette River wetlands. In MRPP, beaver habitat in the LSA can be found in Yellowhead, Witney and Moose lakes.

Beavers and muskrat are primarily associated with Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, but as beavers feed on deciduous vegetation, they can also be found in Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, especially if it is close to the wetland and riparian habitat.

Small Mustelids The RSA is home to five of the smaller members of the Mustelid Family, all five of which are easily recognized by their long, tubular bodies. They are solitary creatures that are generally carnivorous, non- migratory, and active throughout the year.

Marten (Martes americana), mink (Mustela vison) and ermine (Mustela erminea) are all distributed across BC and Alberta. The diet of American marten includes voles, hare, red squirrels, insects, berries, birds and carrion. Mink have a strong affinity for wetland, riparian and aquatic habitats, where they forage on fish, amphibians, birds, small rodents and insects. Short-tailed weasel, or ermine, are primarily ground-

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Long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata) are a larger, southern counterpart to the short-tailed weasel, and eat mice, voles and birds. They are at the northern extent of their range in the RSA. Least weasel (Mustela nivalis) are the smallest Mustelid in BC and Alberta, and eat primarily mice, voles, shrews and insects. They are at the southern end of their BC range around the RSA, but occur throughout Alberta and eastwards.

The different habitats used by these five species reflect their different life histories. Marten are semi- arboreal and mature Englemann spruce – subalpine fir forest is reported to be the ideal habitat for marten in the Rockies. However, marten are found in a wide range of forested habitats including coniferous, deciduous and mixedwood forests.

Mink are semi-aquatic and live in wetlands, and forested riparian areas. Mink den in beaver lodges, in logs or in natural or excavated holes in banks. The three weasel species use a wide variety of overlapping habitats. Short-tailed weasel favour coniferous forests, shrubby areas and wetlands. Long- tailed weasels use more open forest, grassland and riparian habitats, remaining below tree line, while least weasels live in almost every habitat (including alpine meadows) except dense forests and sandy deserts. For all five of these mustelids, coarse woody debris is very important for resting and denning sites and for hunting, especially in winter with the creation of subnivean spaces and access points.

Marten and short-tailed weasel are both common in the RSA, with marten cited as the most common carnivore in JNP and Banff National Park. As a result, both species will likely be abundant in any appropriate habitat in the Project Footprint and LSA. The habitat type with the highest suitability for marten is Pine Forest Habitat. However, all other forest habitat types also provide suitable habitat. Suitable habitat for short-tailed weasel is similarly broad and includes: wet and shrubby sites in the Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, and any Forest Habitat type except Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat type, which is slightly less suitable.

Mink may be locally abundant in appropriate habitats along the Project Footprint, LSA and RSA, but habitat is limited. Habitat types with high suitability for mink include lakes, ponds, Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, and potentially Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat. Long-tailed weasel are uncommon in JNP. This is probably the case at all scales in the areas of interest, including in the Project Footprint, LSA and RSA within JNP. Suitable habitat includes low elevation conifers, particularly Pine Forest Habitat.

River Otter River otters (Lontra canadensis) are aquatic members of the weasel family, Mustelidae, and are a medium-sized carnivore (Plate 5A.31). River otters were extirpated from JNP as of 1983, but have since expanded from BC, across the Yellowhead Pass, the Miette River corridor and the Athabasca River. River otters now occur throughout the LSA.

The diet of river otters consists primarily of fish, particularly slow-moving species such as suckers, sticklebacks and whitefish. They also eat a variety of invertebrates including aquatic beetles, dragonfly nymphs and molluscs, as well as occasionally frogs, toads, waterfowl and shorebirds. Otters are known to utilize beaver ponds, side channels and lodges to concentrate their prey sources. As such, areas with high beaver use in the LSA (see beaver section), may also support river otters. River otters rely on aquatic habitats and, therefore, are associated with the Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitats of the LSA.

Field Results Table 5.45 presents small mammal species and their important habitats identified during the field surveys. During winter tracking surveys in February 2005, several small carnivore species were identified. These include: weasel, marten, river otter, fox and coyote. Coyotes were found throughout the LSA along the entire Proposed Route, and were the most commonly recorded carnivore. Marten, fox and weasels were also detected throughout the LSA at low levels. River otters were only detected at two transects in MRPP

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(of 50 in the LSA). Red squirrels and snowshoe hare were the most common non-carnivorous small mammal species detected throughout the LSA. No porcupines were encountered during field investigations in 2004-2005.

Of the small carnivores, coyotes tended to move along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline more than across it. The patterns of use were less clear for fox and river otter, with approximately equal numbers of animals moving along and across the alignment. Martens and small weasels tended to move across the alignment more than along it. In general, it appears that the larger carnivores utilize the alignment as movement corridors, while the smaller carnivores do not. Their movements tended to be straight across the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, possibly indicating avoidance of open, cleared areas. Squirrels, snowshoe hare and other unknown rodents (including mice, voles and shrews) moved straight across the alignment, instead of moving along it. This also is believed to indicate avoidance of the open, cleared portions of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. Since these species tend to be prey for the larger carnivores that move along the alignment, such avoidance may be advantageous.

Alberta No ground squirrels, northern flying squirrels, muskrats, beavers or river otters were detected in the LSA of the Alberta segment.

Jasper National Park Ground squirrel colonies in the LSA were identified in the Devona Flats area and on the east side of Jasper townsite. Northern flying squirrels were only detected at one location in the LSA in the Decoigne area, however the nocturnal habits of this species make them difficult to detect; flying squirrels can be expected throughout the LSA, using forested habitats adjacent to the Proposed Route. In JNP, wetland habitat suitable for muskrats exists in the Pocahontas area, in wetlands near the Snaring Warden Station, in wetlands below the Pallisades, and in the Miette River wetlands. Wetlands and riparian habitats in JNP that provide important beaver habitat include the Pocahontas area and the Miette River wetlands. River otters now occur throughout the LSA, and were detected in spring and summer in the Fiddle River wetlands.

Mount Robson Provincial Park No ground squirrels or northern flying squirrels were detected in the LSA of the MRPP segment, although northern flying squirrels can be expected to use forested habitats along the Proposed Route through MRPP. Wetlands in the LSA associated with Yellowhead Lake, Witney Lake and Moose Lake provide appropriate muskrat and beaver habitat. River otters were detected during winter wildlife surveys and in spring and summer in Witney Lake in the LSA.

British Columbia No ground squirrels, northern flying squirrels, muskrats, beavers or river otters were detected in the LSA of the BC segment.

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TABLE 5.45

SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED MAMMAL OCCURRENCES AND IMPORTANT HABITATS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Location Species Type Comment Alberta None None N/A N/A Jasper National Park KP 327.0 to KP 329.5 river otter occurrence Fiddle River wetlands KL 332.0 muskrat, beaver important habitat Pocahontas area KP/KL 340.0 ground squirrel colony Devona Flats KP/KL 343.5 fox den sites Located on upper slope KP/KL 354.1 muskrat important habitat Snaring Warden Station KP/KL 361.9 to KP/KL 362.3 muskrat important habitat Pallisades KP/KL 374.7 to KP/KL 375.0 ground squirrel colony Grasslands/Open Pine Forest KP/KL 392.0 to KP/KL 405.0 muskrat, beaver important habitat Miette River wetlands KL 396.5 northern flying squirrel occurrence Decoigne area Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 408.0 river otter occurrence Yellowhead Pass KP/KL 410.0 to KP/KL 414.0 muskrat, beaver important habitat Yellowhead Lake and Witney Lake KP/KL 413.5 river otter occurrence Witney Lake KP/KL 436.0 to KP/KL 437.0 muskrat, beaver important habitat Moose Lake (downslope) British Columbia None None N/A N/A

5.2.9.9 Migratory Birds The migratory bird timing constraint in the LSA is May 1 to July 31 (Gregoire pers. comm.).

Harlequin Duck Harlequin duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) (S3/sensitive in Alberta, S4/S3 in BC) is an uncommon migrant in the RSA of the Proposed Route. Harlequin ducks have a low tolerance for disturbance, and their presence is often used to indicate ecosystem health and wilderness values. In the RSA within JNP, harlequin ducks are known to use the Maligne River and sections of the lower Athabasca River. In the LSA, harlequin ducks are known to stage and forage at Sucker Creek (KP/KL 371.9) during their pre- nesting period in early to mid May.

Harlequin ducks generally winter in coastal areas of BC and migrate inland to breed near fast-flowing mountain streams. They are diving ducks that feed in clear, fast-flowing water. Aquatic invertebrates and small fish are their preferred food resources. Harlequin ducks exhibit strong site fidelity, returning to the same section of stream each year. Factors that influence their distribution include activities that cause greater seasonal variation in stream discharge (such as changing streamside forest cover), increase sedi- mentation and resulting inability to find food resources, human disturbance along the riverbanks (such as river rafting) and altering the natural streamflow.

Shorebirds Shorebirds of the families Scolopacidae and Charadriidae are distributed throughout the RSA and a total of 28 species of shorebird have been recorded in the RSA. However, only six species breed in the RSA. Typically, a total of 19 species migrate throughout the LSA. The peak of the spring migration of shorebirds occurs during May and early June. The shorebird species detected most regularly in the LSA during spring include killdeer, Wilson’s snipe, spotted sandpiper, solitary sandpiper, greater yellowlegs

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2 and sometimes Baird’s sandpiper and pectoral sandpiper. The bulk of the fall migration occurs during August and early September with only a few species lingering to mid-September.

Suitable habitat for shorebirds include exposed mudflats and sand beaches. Jasper Lake and Pocahontas Ponds provide some of the most important migration habitat for shorebirds in the LSA of the JNP segment, while the wetlands east of Moose Lake and near Yellowhead and Witney lakes provide important staging areas in the LSA of the MRPP segment.

Aquatic Birds Species associated with water, including loons (family Gaviidae), grebes (family Podicipedidae), ducks, geese and swans (family Anatidae) are the most obvious migratory birds in the RSA. A total of 38 species of these families have been detected in the LSA, 33 of which were detected on a fairly regular basis during migration. Of these, only 13 species are known to breed in the LSA.

Spring migration of waterfowl begins late in March, coinciding with the melting of the waterbodies that provide valuable staging habitat. Table 5.43 presents important life cycle stages for waterfowl. Early migrant species include mallard, Canada goose, northern pintail, American wigeon and common goldeneye. Later in April and May, species including green-winged teal, lesser scaup, Barrow’s goldeneye, red-necked grebe and American coot are at the peak of their migration. Fall migration is led by harlequin ducks during August, and is followed in September and October by red-necked grebe, Canada goose, northern pintail, green-winged teal, American wigeon and lesser scaup, peaking during mid-September. The later migrants such as mallard, bufflehead and Barrow’s goldeneye peak in migration during mid-October, being the final group of waterfowl to migrate before freezing.

Terrestrial Birds Approximately 100 species of passerine birds (Order Passeriformes) and other terrestrial nonpasserine birds (e.g., nighthawks, swifts, woodpeckers, kingfishers, hummingbirds and raptors) occur in the LSA.

Spring migration of passerines and terrestrial non-passerines generally occurs in late-April and May. Among the earliest migrants are common flicker, American robin, varied thrush, Swainson’s thrush, golden-crowned kinglet, Bohemian waxwing and dark-eyed junco. Later migrants include the insectivorous species such as flycatchers and warblers. Fall migration occurs from August to October. Early species migrating in August include flycatchers, nighthawks, hummingbirds, swallows and western tanager, while other species such as American robin, varied thrush, pine siskin, dark-eyed junco or white- crowned sparrow do not migrate south until later in September to early October.

Field Results Wetland areas in the LSA serve as staging areas for migratory birds. Table 5.46 summarizes the migratory bird species detected at wetlands of the LSA during the fall migration period in 2004 and spring migration period in 2005. Some wetlands and lakes in the LSA were found to be important as waterfowl staging areas during spring and fall migration. There are no known harlequin duck nesting areas located in the Project Footprint and no harlequin ducks were observed during the field surveys.

Alberta No important staging areas or movement corridors for migratory birds have been identified in the LSA of the Alberta segment.

Jasper National Park Key migratory bird habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, passerines and other terrestrial nonpasserines in the LSA of the JNP segment include numerous wetlands associated with the Athabasca River and its tributaries, and the Miette River floodplain. Wetlands with high concentrations of migratory birds in fall and spring in the LSA include the following (Table 5.46):

• wetlands east of Pocahontas Bungalows;

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• Pocahontas Ponds; and • wetlands at base of Palisade Ridge.

A small group (less than 30) of harlequin ducks are commonly present at Sucker Creek (KP/KL 371.9) during early/mid-May, preceding peak flow of the Athabasca River. These ducks feed on the spawn of breeding suckers that occupy Sucker Creek during early/mid-May to early June, and also on benthic invertebrates. Harlequin ducks also use nearby exposed mudflats for staging until the water flows of the Athabasca River peak, eliminating these staging areas.

Shorebirds were found at four wetlands in the LSA within JNP during spring and fall migratory bird surveys. The species detected included killdeer, greater yellowlegs, lesser yellowlegs, spotted sandpiper and Wilson’s snipe. Jasper Lake and Pocahontas Ponds provide some of the most important migration habitat for shorebirds in JNP.

Larger waterbodies of the LSA, such as the Pocahontas Ponds, Talbot Lake and Jasper Lake were found to be important staging areas for waterfowl during spring and fall migration. Of these, Pocahontas Ponds are directly adjacent to the Proposed Route. Talbot Lake is approximately 2 km from the Proposed Route (east of approximately KP/KL 344.0 to KP/KL 350.0). At its closest, Jasper Lake is approximately 600 m from the Proposed Route (KP/KL 342.0 to KP/KL 349.0).

In JNP, movement corridors for migrating passerines and terrestrial non-passerines include Yellowhead Pass and Fiddle River corridor.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Yellowhead Pass is recognized as a migratory bird corridor. Wetlands associated with Yellowhead Lake, Witney Lake and the Fraser River headwaters, including the Moose Lake wetlands, provide suitable migratory bird habitat. High concentrations of migratory birds can be found on Witney Lake.

The wetlands east of Moose Lake (Plate 5A.32) and near Yellowhead and Witney lakes provide important staging areas for migratory birds in MRPP during spring and fall migration. Yellowhead and Witney lakes are on the opposite side of the highway from the Proposed Route (KP/KL 410.0 to KP/KL 415.5), and Moose Lake is approximately 100 m south of the Proposed Route (KP/KL 437.0 to KL 449.0).

There have been a few records of migrating harlequin ducks on Moose Lake in MRPP. Within MRPP, the Moose Lake valley is an important staging or stop over area for migrating passerines and terrestrial non- passerines.

British Columbia No important staging areas or movement corridors for migratory birds have been identified in the LSA of the BC segment.

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TABLE 5.46

SUMMARY OF MIGRATORY BIRD SPECIES DETECTED DURING SPRING AND FALL MIGRATION SURVEYS AT WETLANDS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Spring Migration Surveys (2005) Fall Migration Surveys (2004) Location Comment Dates Visited Species Recorded Dates Visited Species Recorded Alberta None None N/A None N/A None Jasper National Park KL 330.0 to KL 330.2 - Apr. 26 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, mallard Oct. 15, 19 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: none KL 331.1 - Apr. 22 Aquatic birds: none Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none May 15 Shorebirds: none Oct. 12, 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds pine siskin, ruby-crowned kinglet, dark Terrestrial birds: none eyed junco, yellow-rumped warbler KL 331.4 to KL 332.3 East of Apr. 22, 26 Aquatic birds: Green-winged teal, mallard, northern Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none Pocahontas May 15 shoveler, Barrow’s goldeneye, Canada goose, common Oct. 12, 15, 19 Shorebirds: spotted sandpiper Cabins goldeneye, tundra swan, bufflehead Terrestrial birds: none Shorebirds: killdeer, yellowlegs sp. Page 5-121 Page 5-121 Terrestrial birds: northern flicker, red-tailed hawk, sage sparrow, American crow KL 333.6 to KL 335.0 Pocahontas Apr. 22, 26 Aquatic birds: Canada goose, mallard, bufflehead, ring- Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none Ponds May 15 necked duck Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds yellow-rumped warbler, red-winged blackbird, ruby-crowned kinglet KP/KL 341.1 to KP/KL 354.2 Jasper Lake Apr. 22, 26 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, common merganser, Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: American wigeon, mallard (600 m east) May 17 mallard, Canada goose Oct. 13, 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds American robin, chipping sparrow, American crow Off Proposed Route Talbot Lake Apr. 26, 28 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, Canada goose, Oct. 13, 18, 19 Aquatic birds: bufflehead, hooded merganser, American wigeon, but in RSA (2 km east of May 17 common goldeneye, common loon, common merganser, scaup spp., surf scoter, common goldeneye, common loon, KP/KL 344.0 to gadwall, horned grebe, northern pintail, northern shoveler, trumpeter swan, western grebe, red-necked grebe, pacific loon, KP/KL 350.0) red-winged blackbird, bufflehead, horned grebe, lesser eared grebe, mallard, Scaup spp., common merganser, swans spp. scaup, mallard, redhead, ring-necked duck, red-necked Shorebirds: American coot, ring-billed gull, great blue heron, grebe Terrestrial birds: yellow-rumped warbler, savannah sparrow, Shorebirds: American coot, American robin, bald eagle, merlin, rough-legged hawk, northern Terrestrial birds bald eagle, American kestrel, red-winged harrier blackbird, Bonaparte’s gull KP/KL 357.1 to KP/KL 357.8 - Apr. 22, 26 Aquatic birds: mallard, American wigeon, Barrow’s Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none May 17 goldeneye, bufflehead, mallard Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: Wilson’s snipe Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds American robin, red-tailed hawk, ruby- crowned kinglet, orange crowned warbler

Table 5.46 Cont'd

Spring Migration Surveys (2005) Fall Migration Surveys (2004) Location Comment Dates Visited Species Recorded Dates Visited Species Recorded KP/KL 361.8 to KP/KL 362.4 Palisade Ridge Apr. 22, 26, 29 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, Canada goose, lesser Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: hooded merganser, mallard, bufflehead May 17 scaup, ring-necked duck, bufflehead, mallard, common loon Oct. 13, 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: greater yellowlegs, lesser yellowlegs Terrestrial birds: Cooper’s hawk, bald eagle Terrestrial birds American crow, American robin, common raven, northern flicker, ruby-crowned kinglet, Cooper’s hawk, Lincoln sparrow, chipping sparrow KP/KL 371.6 to KP/KL 371.9 Sucker Creek Apr. 26, 28, Aquatic birds: common merganser, mallard Sep. 29, Aquatic birds: none May 17 Shorebirds: none Oct. 13, 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: bald eagle, savannah sparrow, yellow- Terrestrial birds: Savannah sparrow rumped warbler KP/KL 379.9 - Apr. 26 Aquatic birds: none Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: none Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: none KP/KL 384.1 to KP/KL 384.3 - Apr. 24, 28 Aquatic birds: Canada goose, mallard Sep. 29 Aquatic birds: none May 16 Shorebirds: none Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: ruby-crowned kinglet, Brewer’s blackbird, Terrestrial birds: none yellow-rumped warbler KP/KL 387.2 to KP/KL 387.4 - Apr. 26 Aquatic birds: mallard Sep. 30 Aquatic birds: none

Page 5-122 Page 5-122 May 16 Shorebirds: none Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: northern pygmy owl KL 388.4 to KL 388.6 - May 16 Aquatic birds: none Sep. 30 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: none Oct. 15 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: none KP/KL 391.5 to KP/KL 394.4 - Apr. 23, 26 Aquatic birds: bufflehead Sep. 30 Aquatic birds: none May 16 Shorebirds: none Oct. 15, 19 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: yellow-rumped warbler, Townsend’s Terrestrial birds: none warbler, ruby-crowned kinglet KP/KL 395.9 to KL 399.4 Moose River Apr. 23, 26 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, bufflehead, Canada Sep. 30 Aquatic birds: none corridor May 16 goose, canvasback, common goldeneye, gadwall, mallard, Oct. 17 Shorebirds: none ring-necked duck, blue-winged teal, ring-necked duck Terrestrial birds: Shorebirds: none American robin, American pipit Terrestrial birds: American crow, northern shrike KL 401.4 to KL 402.0 - Apr. 24, 26 Aquatic birds: none Sep. 30 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: Wilson’s snipe Oct. 13 Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: none Mount Robson Provincial Park KL 407.8 to KL 408.5 - Apr. 24, 27 Aquatic birds: Canada goose, Barrow’s goldeneye Oct. 14 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: none Terrestrial birds: none KP/KL 413.3 to KP/KL 413.9 Witney Lake Apr. 24, 27 Aquatic birds: common loon, gadwall, mallard, ring-necked Oct. 14, 17, 19 Aquatic birds: ring-necked Duck, Canada goose, hooded May 15 duck, Canada goose, blue-winged teal merganser, surf scoter, bufflehead, scaup, pied-billed grebe, Shorebirds: none American wigeon, American coot Terrestrial birds: red-tailed hawk, American robin, belted Shorebirds: none kingfisher, yellow-rumped warbler, Wilson’s warbler, Terrestrial birds: none golden-crowned kinglet, orange-crowned warbler, dark- eyed junco

Table 5.46 Cont'd

Spring Migration Surveys (2005) Fall Migration Surveys (2004) Location Comment Dates Visited Species Recorded Dates Visited Species Recorded KP/KL 414.1 to KP/KL 414.5 - Apr. 24, 27 Aquatic birds: Canada goose, Barrow’s goldeneye Oct. 14 Aquatic birds: none May 15 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: American crow, song sparrow, Lincoln Terrestrial birds: none sparrow, Hammond’s flycatcher, dark-eyed junco, orange- crowned warbler KP/KL 414.9 to KP/KL 415.1 - Apr. 24, 27 Aquatic birds: none Oct. 1, 14 Aquatic birds: none Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: pileated woodpecker Terrestrial birds: none KP/KL 415.6 to KP/KL 415.7 - Apr. 27, Aquatic birds: mallard, hooded merganser Oct. 14, 19 Aquatic birds: none May 15 Shorebirds: none Shorebirds: none Terrestrial birds: American robin, sapsucker sp., varied Terrestrial birds: none thrush, yellow-rumped warbler, ruby-crowned kinglet, black- capped chickadee, Hammond’s flycatcher Off Pipeline Route but in LSA Moose Lake Apr. 25, 27 Aquatic birds: Barrow’s goldeneye, bufflehead, Canada Oct. 1, 13, 14, Aquatic birds: Canada goose, American wigeon, mallard, green- wetlands May 15, 16 goose, green-winged teal, hooded merganser, mallard, 17, 19 winged teal, scaup spp., ring-necked duck ring-necked duck, red-necked grebe, American coot, Shorebirds: American coot horned grebe, northern shoveler, greater scaup, American Terrestrial birds: bald eagle, rough-legged hawk wigeon Shorebirds: yellowlegs spp. Page 5-123 Page 5-123 Terrestrial birds: American crow, song sparrow, red- winged blackbird, Lincoln sparrow, yellow-rumped warbler, cliff swallow, barn swallow, marsh wren British Columbia None None N/A None N/A None

Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2

5.2.9.10 Breeding Birds

Owls Twelve species of owl have been recorded in JNP and MRPP. Five of these species (the western screech owl, snowy owl, burrowing owl, long-eared owl and short-eared owl) are likely accidentals detected outside their normal range. The seven species that may be expected to use the habitats of the LSA include the northern pygmy owl, northern saw-whet owl, boreal owl, northern hawk owl, barred owl, great horned owl and great gray owl. These are discussed individually below.

Northern Pygmy Owl Northern pygmy owls (Glaucidium gnoma) are uncommon residents occurring in the valley bottom ecosystems of the LSA. They are one of the least detected owl species in the LSA. These owls are a year-round resident, and are generally associated with dense stands of coniferous or mixedwood forest in proximity to edge, clearings of numerous descriptions and lakes. Northern pygmy owls are secondary cavity nesters and rely on existing woodpecker cavities of approximately 4 to 5 cm diameter, such as those created by hairy woodpeckers and northern flickers. The primary limiting factor to northern pygmy owls is habitat degradation, which can lead to a shortage of older, large diameter trees that provide nesting habitat.

Northern pygmy owls can be expected to use Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat and Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat.

Northern Saw-whet Owl Northern saw-whet owls (Aegolius acadicus) are uncommon in the LSA and, due to their migratory life history, are generally only detected in spring and summer. These owls are most commonly detected in lower-elevation habitats than their genus counterpart, boreal owls. Saw-whet owls occur throughout the LSA. Similar to pygmy owls, saw-whet owls are secondary cavity nesters, but they require cavities approximately 7 cm in size or greater, such as those created by primary cavity nesters like northern flickers and pileated woodpeckers. Northern saw-whet owls are reported to depend on mature forest stands with large-diameter trees in various stages of decay.

Northern saw-whet owls can be expected to use mature stands of Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat and Cedar-mixedwood Forest Habitat.

Boreal Owl Boreal owls (Aegolius funereus) are rare to uncommon residents in the RSA, but are detected more commonly in subalpine valleys than in the valley bottoms of the LSA. Although these owls are thought to have large migrations to the south in severe winters, boreal owls are mostly sedentary year-round, with only some altitudinal variation outside the breeding season.

The breeding habitat for boreal owls is mature coniferous forests. They are often associated with Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir forests that are adjacent to meadows or other clearings. Like other species of small owl, boreal owls rely on existing cavities for nesting, such as are produced by northern flickers.

Northern Hawk Owl Northern hawk owls (Surnia ulula) are a very rare resident in the RSA, but are seen more often during winter than during the remaining year. Outside the breeding season, they utilize open coniferous, mixed coniferous and deciduous woodlands, especially in proximity to edges, clearings and wetlands. Hawk owls are not migratory. They are known to undergo dramatic population fluctuations depending upon availability of food.

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Northern hawk owls have been found to breed in JNP in recent burn areas that have pockets of spruce and fir forest. They can also be expected in low densities occupying similar habitats on upper, post-burn slopes throughout the remainder of the study area.

The LSA does not contain much of the typical breeding habitat for hawk owls. However, post-burn areas of Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat near Talbot Lake and Moose Lake may be used by this species.

Barred Owl Barred owls (Strix varia) are described as rare residents in JNP. In Alberta, they have been assessed as ‘sensitive’ due to their requirement for large contiguous areas of mature forest habitat. Prior to the 1940s, barred owls’ range did not occur in BC. Since then, they have extended their range through much of BC, including the LSA.

Barred owls utilize coniferous and mixedwood forests, often near water, including lakes, wetlands and rivers for breeding. Like other owl species, barred owls do not build their own nests. Instead, they often nest in the tops of broken trees and snags or in large cavities. Barred owl territories are sufficiently large to encompass multiple habitat types. Their presence may be expected in Wetland Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat and Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat habitats as well as mature stands of Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat.

Great Horned Owl Great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) are an uncommon resident in the RSA. They are found in a large variety of forested habitats. Great horned owls are predominately nonmigratory, although some movements in response to severe winters or low food availability has been recorded. Breeding habitat includes dense forests and open woodlands, often near openings such as lakes and wetlands. Although great horned owls do not build their own nests, they nest on a large variety of structures, including existing open tree nests, tops of broken trees or snags, large tree cavities and even cliffs and cliff crevices.

Great Gray Owl Great gray owls (Strix nebulosa) are very rare, year-round residents in the RSA. They are more often detected outside the breeding season, observed perching in an opening adjacent to coniferous, mixedwood or deciduous forest. Great gray owls used predominately existing stick-nests, which are often originally made by red-tailed hawks or accipiters in the area. Great gray owls may also use stumps or tops of broken snags for nesting.

Great gray owls may occur in low densities in Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and Cedar- Mixedwood Forest Habitat, especially when the forest stands are mature and appropriate for large stick nesting birds (red-tailed hawks or northern goshawks) and occur in proximity to wetlands, lakes or other openings.

Field Results Pygmy owl, northern saw-whet owl, barred owl and great horned owl were detected in the LSA during the 2005 owl surveys. There were no detections of great gray owls, boreal owls or northern hawk owl (Table 5.47). No large stick nests, which may be used by great gray owls, were found in the Project Footprint during the wildlife field investigations in 2004 and 2005. Important life cycle stages for owls are presented in Table 5.43.

In total, five northern saw-whet owls were found during the surveys. These detections were in the Miette River and Fraser River valleys within 500 m of the Proposed Route. These owls were detected in Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat. All stands with owls were mature to old forest

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2 stands with apparent structural complexity. Saw-whet owls can also be expected to use all ecosites of the habitat types listed above, especially when these are in association with wetlands or other clearings.

Barred owls were located at six sites during the 2005 surveys, making them among the most commonly detected owl species in the LSA. Of these six sites, five were located within 500 m of the Proposed Route. During the 2005 surveys, barred owls were detected in Wetland Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Pine Forest Habitat, Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat and Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat habitats. All stands with barred owl detections were mature with apparent canopy structure and available large (greater than 50 cm-diameter) trees.

Great horned owls were detected at two sites in 2005. Both detections were in the Miette River valley and within 500 m of the Proposed Route. The detection sites from 2005 were in Pine Forest Habitat and Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat. Great horned owls can also be expected to utilize other ecosites of Pine Forest Habitat and Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, as well as Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat and Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat, especially when they are associated with wetland habitats.

Despite intense surveying for northern pygmy owls both before and after dusk, only a single individual was found during the surveys. This owl was found calling in the early evening on Robson Ranch, between approximately KP/KL 466.3 and KP/KL 467.0. This individual appeared to be defending a territory in Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat.

No boreal owls were detected during surveys in 2005. Although there are some of the higher elevation Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir forests in the RSA, these are generally at notably higher elevations than the Project Footprint. Boreal owls may feed at lower elevations outside the breeding season, especially during severe winters.

There were no detections of northern hawk owls during surveys in 2005, although targeted searches in potentially suitable habitats were conducted during daytime for this primarily diurnal species. In 2005, there was a single reliable report of a hawk owl in the LSA, near the Pocahontas Warden Station in late March. This bird could not be relocated and it is expected that this individual did not breed in the area.

There were no detections of great gray owls during the 2005 owl surveys of the LSA.

TABLE 5.47

SUMMARY OF OWL DETECTIONS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Detected Detection Within 500 m Location of Dates of Proposed Location Species Detection (2005) Habitat Type Route Comments Alberta None None N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Jasper National Park KL 333.0 Northern Pocahontas Warden March 29 Aspen and Balsam Yes Owl was seen near the Pocahontas Warden hawk owl Station Poplar Forest Habitat Station KP/KL 354.0 Barred owl Wetland east of April 21 Pine Forest Habitat Yes Male owl was calling spontaneously from area Snaring Warden surrounding wetland and existing Trans Station Mountain pipeline alignment. This owl was detected numerous times subsequently, calling in the afternoon and evening. KP/KL 379.5 Barred owl Miette River near April 5, 22 Wetland, Shrub and Yes Male owl responded to playback from rich Jasper townsite Riparian Forest Habitat forest surrounding oxbows of Miette River during both visits. KL 381.2 Northern Wynd Road April 28 Pine Forest Habitat Yes Male owl responded to playback saw-whet owl KP/KL 391.5 Great West of Dorothy Lake April 28 Douglas-fir and White Yes Male owl responded to playback. horned owl trailhead Spruce Forest Habitat

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TABLE 5.47 Cont'd

Detected Detection Within 500 m Location of Dates of Proposed Location Species Detection (2005) Habitat Type Route Comments KP/KL 395.0 Northern Clairvaux Creek area April 22 Pine Forest Habitat Yes Owl was calling from across Miette River from saw-whet the station adjacent to the highway in owl response to playback. Habitat mostly coniferous (spruce, Douglas- fir) with patches of aspen KP/KL 401.0 Great Decoigne Road April 28 Pine Forest Habitat No Male owl responded to playback. horned owl Mount Robson Provincial Park KL 433.0 Barred owl East of Moose Lake April 4 Wetland, Shrub and Yes Male owl responded to playback, upslope of wetlands Riparian Forest Habitat highway. and Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat KP/KL 437.0 Barred owl Moose Lake boat April 24 Douglas-fir and White Yes Male owl responded to call playback upslope launch Spruce Forest Habitat of the moose lake boat launch. KP/KL 444.3 Northern Upslope of Moose April 23 Aspen and Balsam Yes Male owl was calling in response to playback saw-whet Lake Poplar Forest Habitat from near existing Trans Mountain pipeline owl alignment, uphill of highway KL 451.0 Northern North side of Fraser April 25 Wetland, Shrub and Yes Male owl responded to playback long after the saw-whet River, approximately Riparian Forest Habitat start of broadcasting (13 min). owl 2 km west of Moose Male may have approached from core of Lake territory. KL 451.0 Barred owl North side of Fraser April 2, 3 Pine Forest Habitat No Male barred owl was spontaneously vocal River, approximately Male was calling from south side of Fraser 2 km west of Moose River, far from the existing Trans Mountain Lake pipeline alignment KL 457.3 Northern North side of Fraser April 23 Pine Forest Habitat Yes Male owl was calling without previous saw-whet River, approximately playback owl 9 km west of Moose Male was calling near Fraser River. Lake A daytime visit led to discovery of whitewash in a dense area of forest adjacent to an aspen patch, suggesting this may be a nesting area. British Columbia KP/KL 466.3 to Northern Robson Ranch area April 3 Cedar and Hemlock Yes Male pygmy owl was calling with no playback KP/KL 467.0 pygmy owl Forest Habitat and required (afternoon response) Cedar-Mixedwood Male was calling at same time as nearby Forest Habitat vocal barred owl KP/KL 466.3 Barred owl Robson Ranch April 2, 23, Cedar and Hemlock Yes Male owl responded to playback on April 2, 25 Forest Habitat and and approached observers on the existing Cedar-Mixedwood Trans Mountain pipeline alignment. Forest Habitat Male was spontaneously vocal during late afternoon on April 3-territorial behaviour being exhibited. Surrounding habitat is rich in potential nesting sites (large diameter trees and snags) Owl was detected on subsequent visits, calling from the same area. Eagles Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) are the largest members of the diurnal birds of prey (Falconiformes) in the LSA. These species was selected as VECs because they are indicators of ecological integrity, play an important role in the food-chain and are of importance to the public.

Bald eagle populations in western Canada are generally thought to be stable, but may be limited by winter food stress. They are not common in most parts of the RSA throughout the year. Bald eagles compete with ospreys for food and nest sites; however, bald eagles have a more generalist foraging strategy, and will readily attempt to catch water birds and eat carrion. They nest on large trees in the

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2 vicinity of their preferred hunting grounds: typically wetlands, lakes and rivers. In migration and throughout winter, bald eagles will stray away from aquatic habitats in search of carrion. In the LSA, wildlife habitats identified as Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat are considered to have the highest suitability for bald eagle. Bald eagles have nested near the Pocahontas Ponds and Talbot Lake, and are known to hunt on the slopes above Devona Flats.

Golden eagles are uncommon throughout the RSA during spring migration and the breeding season. Golden eagles are often observed in the RSA during spring and fall migration when they will travel along mountain ridges to move south. They are rare winter residents throughout the RSA. They travel over a large area in search of prey items such as marmots, voles, ground squirrels and a variety of other mammal species, including bighorn sheep lambs and deer fawns. Golden eagles hunt over open mountain habitat. Golden eagles typically use large south-facing cliffs for nesting. These habitat requirements do not occur in the LSA; however, they do occur in the RSA. Suitable golden eagle habitat includes some Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat. Golden eagles are known to hunt near Dorothy Lake, upslope of the Miette River.

Osprey Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) are a cosmopolitan species that lives almost entirely on fish. Ospreys are widely distributed in western Alberta and throughout BC. Ospreys are generally present in the LSA near rivers or lakes. In JNP, ospreys are fairly common along the Athabasca River from the Fiddle River crossing (KL 328.0) to Jasper townsite (KP/KL 380.0). In the MRPP segment of the LSA, ospreys are found in the Yellowhead Lake to Moose Lake area. Ospreys are only present in sections of the Proposed Route near rivers or lakes that support adequate populations of fish such as suckers and rainbow trout. They build large stick nests on trees or on man-made structures.

Ospreys are migratory and breed in the RSA. They are known to nest near Talbot Lake and along the Athabasca River, north of the Jasper townsite in JNP. Ospreys arrive as early as mid-March, but most spring migrants are observed in April and May. Ospreys depart for winter grounds throughout September. Nest site availability and food resources are the main factors known to limit osprey populations. In the LSA, wildlife habitats identified as Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat are considered to have the highest suitability for the osprey.

Hawks Two groups of hawks are found in the RSA, buteos and accipiters. Buteos are large open-country hawks that are well adapted to soaring. There is a low diversity of buteos in the RSA, of which only the red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is a regular summer resident. Red-tailed hawks are uncommon throughout the RSA. They are adaptable but prefer semi-forested or edge habitats, which provide for hunting small mammals, snowshoe hares, snakes and insects. Red-tailed hawks usually select large coniferous or deciduous trees for nesting. In the LSA, wildlife habitats identified as Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat are considered to have the highest suitability for red-tailed hawks.

Three species of accipiters are found in the RSA: the northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), the sharp- shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus), and the Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperi). Accipiters are swift forest hawks that hunt smaller birds and mammals. They use open forest habitat in the valley bottoms. Northern goshawks are rare in the RSA. They hunt in mature forest habitats for snowshoe hares, squirrels, and a variety of birds including jays and grouse. They will nest in both deciduous and coniferous trees. Sharp- shinned hawks are uncommon throughout the RSA. They nest primarily in coniferous trees. Cooper's hawks are rare throughout the RSA. They nest in coniferous and deciduous trees. Cooper’s hawks and sharp-shinned hawks will hunt in more fragmented forests and along edges with dense shrub thickets in search of avian prey. Suitable nesting habitat for accipiters includes mature stands of Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat, Floodplain Spruce Habitat, Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat, and Cedar- Mixedwood Forest Habitat.

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In winter, all four hawk species are considered to be very rare in the RSA. Information on population trends in the LSA is lacking, although all four species appear to have stable populations across North America. The northern goshawk may be limited by habitat; however, there is little evidence that the population is declining.

Woodpeckers Woodpeckers are important members of the forest community and generally considered to be a keystone guild in forest ecosystems. Woodpeckers are the most prolific primary cavity nesters in most forested habitats of the LSA. They excavate nesting cavities in live or dead standing trees that typically have heartwood decay. As primary cavity nesters, woodpeckers create vital habitat for secondary cavity users such as ducks, owls, songbirds and some small mammal species. Secondary cavity users benefit by using woodpecker cavities for reproduction, shelter and food storage.

A diverse woodpecker community assures that cavities are available for all secondary cavity users. For example, cavity nesting ducks of the RSA such as Barrow’s goldeneye (Bucephala islandica) require large cavities for nesting, such as those excavated by pileated woodpeckers (Dryocopus pileatus). In contrast, tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) select smaller cavities created by smaller woodpecker species. Populations of secondary cavity users are known to be limited by cavity abundance. Therefore, the loss of cavity habitat features will affect the secondary cavity user community.

A total of nine species of woodpecker have been recorded in the RSA. These are:

• Pileated woodpecker – (uncommon resident); mature and over-mature forest habitat with abundant wildlife trees in decay.

• Northern flicker (Colaptes auratus) – overlapping range of yellow-shafted and red-shafted subspecies in study site (common resident); open forests and forest edges.

• Lewis’ woodpecker (Melanerpes lewis) – (very rare resident); dry open montane ecoregion forests; sometimes associated with post-burn habitats.

• Hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus) – (uncommon resident); montane and lower subalpine ecoregion forests.

• Three-toed woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus) – (uncommon resident); require standing wildlife trees in advanced stages of decay; most common in lower subalpine habitats, but also seen in valley bottoms.

• Black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus) – (very rare resident); require standing wildlife trees in advanced stages of decay; montane and subalpine ecoregion forests.

• Yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) – (uncommon resident); deciduous habitats.

• Red-naped sapsucker (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) – (uncommon resident); deciduous habitats. Northern extent of this species range.

• Downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) – (uncommon resident); deciduous habitats in montane ecoregion.

Passerines and Others A total of 182 species of passerine birds have been reported in the RSA. A total of 95 species were detected during breeding bird surveys in the LSA (Plate 5A.33). The diverse assemblage of passerines utilize all habitat types crossed by the Proposed Route. Characteristic species of each habitat type are presented in the field results section below.

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Field Results

Eagles, Ospreys and Hawks Diurnal species of raptors detected during the 2005 surveys include bald eagles, ospreys, red-tailed hawks, sharp-shinned hawk and northern goshawk. No golden eagles or Cooper’s hawk were detected. No eagle, osprey or hawk nests were identified within the Project Footprint. Table 5.48 presents incidental sightings of diurnal raptors in the LSA during the 2005 surveys. Table 5.43 presents important life cycle stages for diurnal raptors.

TABLE 5.48

SUMMARY OF INCIDENTAL DETECTIONS OF DIURNAL RAPTORS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Location Species Comment Alberta None None N/A Jasper National Park KP/KL 354 bald eagle 800 m north of Proposed Route KP/KL 378.0 to KP/KL 380.0 osprey Athabasca River KP/KL 358.0 red-tailed hawk Within 100 m of Proposed Route KL 402.0 red-tailed hawk Within 100 m of Proposed Route Mount Robson Provincial Park KL 428.0 sharp-shinned hawk Grant Brook Creek British Columbia KP/KL 466.3 northern goshawk Robson Ranch

Woodpecker Surveys A total of five woodpecker species were found to occur in forested habitats throughout the LSA. These are pileated woodpecker, northern flicker, three-toed woodpecker, hairy woodpecker and yellow-bellied sapsucker. Woodpeckers were most commonly detected in Aspen and Balsam Poplar Habitat followed by Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat (Table 5.49). Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat, Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat and Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat had low abundance and diversity of woodpeckers. Mature forest habitats tend to have greater availability of standing dead or dying trees that are excavated by woodpeckers. Mature Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat, Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat and Pine Forest Habitat are important habitat to woodpeckers and secondary cavity nesting species.

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TABLE 5.49

HABITAT USE OF WOODPECKER SPECIES IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA1

Pileated Northern Three-toed Hairy Yellow-bellied Habitat Woodpecker Flicker Woodpecker Woodpecker Sapsucker Aspen and Balsam 1 4 - 2 1 Poplar Habitat Cedar and Hemlock 1 - 1 - - Forest Habitat Cedar-Mixedwood - 2 - - - Forest Habitat Douglas-fir and White 2 3 2 - - Spruce Forest Habitat Grassland and Dry - 3 1 - - Slope Habitat Pine Forest Habitat 5 3 4 - -

Wetland, Shrub and - 3 - - - Riparian Forest Habitat Note: 1 Based on number of detections from 2005 field survey.

Passerine Surveys A total of 95 species of passerines were detected in the LSA during the spring breeding bird surveys in 2005 (Table 5.50). Most species detected during the breeding bird surveys are considered common for the RSA and typical of the forested habitats of western Alberta and eastern BC. The diverse assemblage of avifauna in the LSA is composed of species generalists and species select, and reside in specific habitat types. Numerous bird species are edge tolerant or edge specialists preferring the thicker understory vegetation often present at the edges of forest habitat. These are the bulk of the species detected during the 2005 breeding bird surveys. Other species are interior forest specialists, and tend to utilize forest habitat away from the edge of the forest, preferring the structure and cover created by the canopy. Examples of such interior forest specialists include northern goshawk, ovenbird and hermit thrush

The Wetland, Shrub and Riparian Forest Habitat has the greatest diversity of passerine species in the LSA, with approximately 75% or all birds detected in surveys in 2005 (Figure 5.4). The density of birds was highest in this habitat type compared to other habitat types in the LSA. Wetlands are well known to be highly productive habitats, and despite their abundance in the LSA, are relatively rare across the landscape. Wetland habitats are important to the waterfowl and shorebird species of the LSA, as well as the large assemblage of passerines. The most commonly detected passerine species in the wetlands of the LSA include yellow-rumped warbler, American robin, warbling vireo, ruby-crowned kinglet and dark- eyed junco. Species that were detected only in wetland habitats include song sparrow, swamp sparrow, white-crowned sparrow and willow flycatcher.

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TABLE 5.50

BIRD SPECIES DETECTED IN 2005 AND THEIR DISTRIBUTION ACROSS THE HABITAT TYPES OF THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Wetland, Douglas-fir Aspen, Shrub, and White Flood-plain Balsam Cedar Cedar Species Riparian Spruce Grassland Pine forest Spruce Poplar Hemlock Mixedwood Alder flycatcher American crow American kestrel American redstart American robin American three-toed woodpecker Bald eagle Barn swallow Barrow's goldeneye Belted kingfisher Black-billed magpie Black-capped chickadee Blackpoll warbler Boreal chickadee Brown creeper Brown-headed cowbird Bufflehead Canada goose Cassin's vireo Cedar waxwing Chestnut-backed chickadee Chipping sparrow Cinnamon teal Clark's nutcracker Common loon Common raven Common yellowthroat Dark-eyed junco Downy woodpecker Dusky flycatcher European starling Fox sparrow Golden-crowned kinglet Gray jay Greater yellowlegs Hairy woodpecker Hammond's flycatcher Hermit thrush Killdeer Least flycatcher Lincoln's sparrow Long-billed dowitcher MacGillivray's warbler Magnolia warbler Mallard Merlin Mountain chickadee Northern flicker Northern rough-winged swallow Northern waterthrush

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TABLE 5.50 Cont'd

Wetland, Douglas-Fir Flood- Aspen, Cedar Shrub, and White Grass- plain Balsam Cedar Mixed- Species Riparian Spruce land Pine forest Spruce Poplar Hemlock wood Olive-sided flycatcher Orange-crowned warbler Ovenbird Pacific-Slope flycatcher Pileated woodpecker Pine siskin Purple finch Red crossbill Red-breasted nuthatch Red-naped sapsucker Red-tailed hawk Red-winged blackbird Ring-necked duck Rock pigeon Ruby-crowned kinglet Ruffed grouse Rufous hummingbird Savannah sparrow Sharp-shinned hawk Solitary sandpiper Song sparrow Spotted sandpiper Steller's jay Swainson's thrush Swamp sparrow Tennessee warbler Townsend's solitaire Townsend's warbler Tree swallow Varied thrush Vesper sparrow Violet-green swallow Warbling vireo Western meadowlark Western tanager Western wood-pewee White-breasted nuthatch White-crowned sparrow White-throated sparrow Willow flycatcher Wilson's snipe Wilson's warbler Winter wren Yellow warbler Yellow-rumped warbler

Note: Gray shading indicates species detected in the LSA during field surveys.

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Floodplain Spruce Forest 25 Habitat

Cedar-mixedwood Forest 33 Habitat

Douglas Fir and White 33 Spruce Forest Habitat

Cedar and Hemlock Forest 34 Habitat

Grassland and Dry Slope 45 Habitat

Aspen and Balsam Poplar 50 Forest Habitat

Pine Forest Habitat 60

Wetland, Shrub and 71 Riparian Forest Habitat

All 95

0 102030405060708090100 Number of species detected

Figure 5.4 Habitat Selection by Breeding Birds in the Local Study Area (Spring-Summer 2005)

The Pine Forest Habitat type is common in the LSA. Approximately 63% of all breeding bird species recorded in 2005 were found in this habitat (Figure 5.4). The most commonly recorded species were yellow-rumped warbler, dark-eyed junco, American robin, Swainson’s thrush and warbling vireo. Aside from Swainson’s thrush, these are the most commonly detected species in LSA in 2005.

The Aspen and Balsam Poplar Forest Habitat occurs in pockets throughout the LSA. This deciduous habitat type provides important breeding habitat for many bird species. Approximately 52% of the breeding bird species recorded in 2005 were found in this habitat (Figure 5.4). The most common species were yellow-rumped warbler, dark-eyed junco, American robin, varied thrush and warbling vireo. Species that benefit from this habitat type include white-throated sparrow, black-capped chickadee, Tennessee warbler, Wilson’s warbler, ruffed grouse, purple finch and western wood-pewee due to their affinity to deciduous or mixedwood habitats.

Grassland and Dry Slope Habitat are very restricted, both across the North America and the LSA. This habitat type had approximately 47% of the total number of species of breeding birds recorded in the LSA in 2005 (Figure 5.4). The most common species were yellow-rumped warbler, chipping sparrow, American crow, dark-eyed junco, ruby-crowned kinglet and vesper sparrow. Fox sparrow, vesper sparrow and western meadowlark were not detected in other habitat types of the LSA during the 2005 surveys. Western meadowlarks were only detected early in the breeding season, indicating they may have been migratory and likely did not breed in the study area. Bird species breeding in this habitat type were generally found close to shrubs or small stands of trees, and not in the open grassland areas, presumably because the increased structure provided by taller vegetation provided greater security to the nest.

Approximately 35% of all breeding birds surveyed were found in the Douglas-fir and White Spruce Forest Habitat in 2005 (Figure 5.4). Older and open stands of this habitat type provide structurally rich habitat. Douglas-fir dominated forests tend to be limiting across the landscape. The most commonly detected passerine species in this habitat were warbling vireo, varied thrush, American robin, Swainson’s thrush and western tanager. Dark-eyed junco, mountain chickadee and bohemian waxwing are also common species of the area – except for Bohemian waxwing, these species were also noted in 2005.

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The Cedar and Hemlock Forest Habitat is limited to the western region of the LSA. This “interior rainforest” is highly restricted continentally, and brings to it species that otherwise range in more coastal habitats, such as chestnut-backed chickadees. This habitat type had approximately 36% of the total number of species of breeding birds recorded in the 2005 surveys (Figure 5.4). The most common species were yellow-rumped warbler, Hammond’s flycatcher, dark-eyed junco, warbling vireo and varied thrush. Red crossbills were another definitive species of this habitat type.

The Cedar-Mixedwood Forest Habitat is equally restricted in the LSA as the Cedar and Hemlock Habitat. Its increased deciduous component creates a mosaic in habitat structure over small areas and, therefore, provides habitat niches to a diverse array of species. In 2005, 35% of all species detected were found in this habitat (Figure 5.4). Most common were golden-crowned kinglet, warbling vireo, varied thrush, American robin and Swainson’s thrush. Red crossbills and winter wrens were among the definitive species of this habitat type.

The Floodplain Spruce Forest Habitat is restricted to small areas in the LSA. This habitat had approximately 25% of all species detected in 2005 (Figure 5.4). The most commonly recorded species included yellow-rumped warbler, varied thrush, Hammond’s flycatcher, dark-eyed junco and American Robin. Definitive species for this habitat type included American redstart and Tennessee warbler.

5.2.9.11 Amphibians and Reptiles

Wandering Garter Snake The wandering garter snake (Thamnophis elegans vagrans) (sensitive in Alberta) is a subspecies of the western terrestrial garter snake and is found in BC and Alberta. Despite its abundance, relatively few details are known about the wandering garter snake’s natural history. Like most garter snakes, the wandering garter snake spends the winter in underground dens, typically in south-facing rocky outcrops, commonly shared with other individuals and snake species. Wandering garter snakes are opportunistic and feed on a wide variety of invertebrate and vertebrate prey captured both in the water and on land. During the summer, these snakes prefer open areas like meadows and are often found near streams, lakes, ponds and wetlands. There were two incidental sightings of western terrestrial garter snakes in the Project Footprint at approximately KL 381.3 and KL 396.9. Both of these sightings were west of Jasper in the Miette River valley.

Boreal Chorus Frog Boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata) have an extensive range across North America. They are uncommon and at low density in the RSA. Prior to 2004, boreal chorus frogs have not been observed in the JNP for over 10 years. All records of boreal chorus frogs from the park are from flooded willow thickets, emergent sedge beds, and white spruce forest on the floodplain of the lower Athabasca River. The nearest source population and potential movement corridor into and out of the area are unknown. This species is of special management interest and is an indicator of ecological integrity.

Adult boreal chorus frogs move to aquatic breeding sites in June to lay their eggs. Females usually lay 150 to 1,500 eggs over several days in a number of small clumps containing 5 to 75 eggs each attached to vegetation just below the surface. Development and maturity are rapid; eggs hatch in 10 to 14 days after oviposition, metamorphosis occurs approximately two months after hatching, and juveniles reach sexual maturity in one year. Boreal chorus frogs may live for only two to three years.

Outside of the breeding season, these small frogs appear to spend much of their time underground. As a result, little is known of their habits. Within their extensive range, boreal chorus frogs occur in many habitats, including swamps, meadows, woodlands and open areas with sufficient cover. They breed in shallow or deep water that contains submerged vegetation. They overwinter terrestrially and are freeze- tolerant, flooding their cells with glucose in winter, which acts as a natural antifreeze. Adults and juveniles are preyed upon by a variety of species, including birds, reptiles, mammals and fish. They, in turn, prey upon on numerous invertebrates, such as ants, spiders, caterpillars, beetles, mites, springtails and flies.

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Western (Boreal) Toad Western toads (Bufo boreas) are of special status under the IUCN, under COSEWIC and in Alberta and are discussed in Section 5.2.10.

Long-toed Salamander The long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum) extends from northwestern BC across to the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains down to California. This species is of special status and management interest in Alberta and is an indicator of ecological integrity. Long-toed salamanders are not considered to be currently at risk but their relative rarity and clumped distribution within Alberta poses a potential threat. A major limiting factor in breeding site selection for long-toed salamanders is the presence of predatory fish, especially non-native trout. Previous studies have recorded only three sightings of long-toed salamander in the Jasper area.

Long-toed salamanders breed in shallow lakes and ponds. Breeding begins in late April in the Jasper area. Females lay between 85 to 411 eggs, singly or in clutches on pond bottoms, logs, rocks or attached to sticks or vegetation. Eggs hatch in 12 to 50 days, depending on water temperature. Larval development usually occurs in the first season although larvae may overwinter in ponds and lakes in some areas (e.g., at high elevation). Unlike frog and toad tadpoles, salamander larvae are carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates and other amphibian larvae. Juveniles and adults are preyed upon by fish, snakes, birds and mammals.

Juveniles and adults are highly terrestrial outside of the breeding season, occurring in a range of habitats and exploiting disturbed or marginal habitats versus climax forests. A study near Hinton found that long- toed salamanders were common in well-drained areas with a thick litter layer and close to permanent water bodies; the presence of logging in the area did not appear to be a limiting factor for this species. Long-toed salamander sites in Alberta appear to be closely associated with loose, permeable soils (i.e., surficial deposits from past glaciation or river bottoms) that maintain moisture, recharge ponds and lakes, and contain interstitial spaces for this weak burrowing, subterranean-dwelling species; long-toed salamanders spend a large proportion of their time underground. This species overwinters approximately 50 to 70 cm below ground in loose gravel where temperatures remain above freezing.

Wood Frog Wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) are very common in the RSA and can be found throughout BC and Alberta. However, they are absent from many area of the Rockies and southern areas of Alberta. They are forest- dwelling and prefer damp, shady areas, in aspen parkland and boreal forests. Wood frog populations are currently considered to be widespread and healthy, and are not considered to be at risk in Alberta or BC (ASRD 2005b, BC MOE 2005d).

Wood frogs actively hunt for worms, snails, millipedes, molluscs and other small invertebrates, and are commonly found far from water. Predators include aquatic insects and shrews. Breeding takes place anywhere from late April to June, depending on snowmelt, and usually lasts only one to two weeks. Females will lay 2000 to 3000 eggs in shallow, clear permanent or temporary ponds. Hatching of eggs is dependent on water temperature and will occur approximately three weeks after eggs are laid. During development, tadpoles grow from 10 mm to 50 mm and transform to froglets after 6 to 12 weeks (ASRD 2005b, BC MOE 2005d).

Field Results Amphibian surveys were conducted in the Project Footprint between April and July 2005 (Plate 5A.34). For detailed results of the surveys refer to Table 5.51. Important life cycle stages for amphibians are presented in Table 5.43.

Adult male boreal chorus frogs were only heard calling at two of 48 wetlands sampled in the LSA (i.e., in the Pocahontas area at KL 332.0 and KL 333.3 in JNP in June 2005) (Table 5.51). One adult was subsequently found during visual surveys at one of the wetlands. Pocahontas Ponds occurs at the lowest elevation in the park and the elevational range of the species is 400 to 800 m. Individuals were heard

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2 calling on both sides of the highway at Pocahontas Ponds in 2005, which likely poses the greatest threat to local populations at this time, either through direct mortality from motor vehicles or from chemical run- off (e.g., road salts, fuel spills, the use of herbicides, etc.).

Western toads were found at twelve of 48 wetlands surveyed, occurring in the Project Footprint of the Alberta, JNP and MRPP segments of the Proposed Route (Table 5.51). Adult male toads were heard calling in the Jasper area from late April to mid May in 2005.

Although encountered less frequently than other amphibian species in the area, long-toed salamander breeding sites were found at 15 of 48 sites (Table 5.51). In comparison to previous studies, long-toed salamanders were encountered at numerous sites in 2005 (28% of sites) and 2004 (10%). This may be an artefact of sampling effort and period since salamanders are more difficult to detect than frogs and toads (e.g., nocturnal versus diurnal).

Wood frogs were found at 19 of 48 sites in the LSA.

TABLE 5.51

WETLAND HABITATS SURVEYED FOR AMPHIBIANS WITHIN THE FOOTPRINT

Location along the Amphibian Species and Life Proposed Route General Habitat Description Stages Alberta KP/KL 314.0 Powerline depression with three open-water pools Wood frog (A, T) Long-toed salamander (E) KP/KL 315.7 Powerline depression with central open-water area Wood frog (E, T) Western toad (J) KP/KL 315.8 Powerline depression - relatively dry early in season; dense None observed vegetation KP/KL 316.0 Powerline depression with small central open-water area Wood frog (T) KP/KL 317.7 Shallow, open water pond within black spruce muskeg Wood frog (E, T) habitat Western toad (T) Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 317.72 Shallow, open-water pond within black spruce muskeg Wood frog (A, E, T) habitat Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 317.72 Shallow, open-water pond within black spruce muskeg Wood frog (E, T) habitat Western toad (E, T) KP/KL 324.0 (A) One of two sewage ponds in a field (A = larger and Western toad (E) 'cleaner' than B = small); horse trails nearby Wood frog (T) KP/KL 324.0 (B) One of two sewage ponds in a field (A = larger and Wood frog (A calls only) 'cleaner' than B = small); horse trails nearby Jasper National Park KL 332.0 Shallow, open-water area with snags; little vegetation.; Wood frog (T) muddy/silty bottom Western toad (T) Boreal chorus frog (A and calls) KL 333.3 Large open-water area; silty bottom; little vegetation (when Wood frog (T) flooded connected to whole area) Western toad (T) Boreal chorus frog (calls nearby – to the north) KP/KL 338.2 Narrow open water area; channel-like with willow on edges Wood frog (A) KP/KL 352.1 Shallow beaver pond with snags Long-toed salamander (E) KP/KL 354.2 Shallow open-water pond with emergent sedges Long-toed salamander (E) Wood frog (A and calls) KP/KL 354.2 Large open water body Wood frog (calls) KP/KL 357.7 Large open-water wetland; willow border and sedges Wood frog (E) Long-toed salamander (E) Western toad (A and calls)

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TABLE 5.51 Cont'd

Location along the Amphibian Species and Life Proposed Route General Habitat Description Stages KP/KL 362.1 Small, isolated open-water ponds; silty bottom with Wood frog (T) emergent graminoids Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 362.2 Large open-water wetland (with small isolated ponds along Wood frog (A and calls) northwest edge) Western toad (A) Wood frog tadpoles in 2004 KP/KL 366.1 Small, slow moving stream within trees by highway (Swift None observed Creek) KP/KL 371.8 Open-water pond beside highway; shallow with emergent None observed graminoids KP/KL 383.4 Open clearing with graminoids None observed KP/KL 384.3 In early spring, area was large, shallow open-water wetland Wood frog (E, A) with emergent vegetation along shore Western toad (T) KP/KL 385.1 Large open meadow dry in early spring None observed KP/KL 387.3 Large sedge wetland with an open water pond at the Wood frog (E, T) southeast end (near existing Trans Mountain pipeline) Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 387.6 Small open-water pool extending back into willow; located Long-toed salamander (L) along edge of right of way Wood frog (A) KP/KL 388.2 Shallow open-water pond along south edge of right of way; Wood frog (A) most of wetland extends back into thick willow/conifer KP/KL 389.7 Fluvial (small circular pond/creek) None observed KP/KL 391.6 to Large, shallow scrub/willow wetland (five open ponds that None observed KP/KL 394.4 are out of the Project Footprint, but in the LSA and hydrologically connected; each pond treated separately) KP/KL 391.7 Pond; channel runs parallel to tracks None observed

KP/KL 392.9 Deep, linear pond (25 m x 5 m) None observed KP/KL 393.4 Deep, linear pond (75 x 5 m) None observed KP/KL 393.6 Small group of open water areas with emergent vegetation None observed KP/KL 393.8 Linear pool of open water; moss along north shore None observed KP/KL 394.2 Beaver pond on west side (flows into Miette River); channel Wood frog (T) with open water on north and east KP/KL 394.3 Beaver pond with flooded sedge on south side (dam on Wood frog (T, A) east) KP/KL 394.4 Small shallow, open water pond with silty bottom Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 396.4 Small wetland with graminoids, surrounded by willow Western toad (A) KP/KL 396.9 Linear willow/sedge wetland; floodplain from Miette River Wood frog (calls nearby) KP/KL 398.5 Small channel through willow/sedge habitat Long-toed salamander (E, L) Western toad (T, A) KP/KL 402.4 Open-water area surrounded by flooded graminoids; willow Long-toed salamander (L) along south and east edges (separates it from Miette River) Wood frog (A, calls) KP/KL 402.6 Large, open graminoid/moss wetland with willow at edge in Wood frog (A) some areas; pockets of standing water throughout KP/KL 402.7 Large, open graminoid /moss wetland with willow at edge in Wood frog (T, A, calls) some areas; standing water along north side near alternative pipeline; southeast side has a long, narrow channel with water as well Mount Robson Provincial Park KL 407.8 Wetland with one large open-water area, and several Long-toed salamander (L) smaller pools; graminoids and spruce throughout Wood frog (A, calls) KL 408.4 Open water with forested edges Long-toed salamander (L) KP/KL 413.6 Lake; muddy edge; shallow shoreline along south edge; Western toad (T) beaver activity (channels and ponds) along south edge

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TABLE 5.51 Cont'd

Location along the Amphibian Species and Life Proposed Route General Habitat Description Stages KP/KL 414.4 Small wetland; west end has open water; east end has None observed emergent shrub/sedge KP/KL 415.0 Linear open meadow with small pockets of water Long-toed salamander (E) Wood frog (calls) KP/KL 415.7 Small open-water pond; southwest edge had flooded Wood frog (T, A, calls) sedge; whole perimeter had alder overhang British Columbia None None None Note: Life Stages: A = adult, E = egg(s), T = tadpole, L = larvae, J = juvenile

5.2.9.12 Invertebrates Very little recorded information about invertebrate diversity in the LSA is available. Given the size and complexity of the LSA, a high diversity of invertebrates should be expected, including northern, montane, western and prairie species. Nine at-risk invertebrate species are known to occur in or near the RSA, including butterflies, restricted to the Alpine and upper Subalpine life zones, and two dragonflies. The Quebec emerald and Whitehouse’s emerald are of special management interest and expected to occur in the montane ecoregion.

The Quebec emerald (Somatochlora brevicincta) was discovered in BC in 2000 in peatlands northwest of the RSA at Williston Lake. Whitehouse’s emerald (Somatochlora whitehousei) is also known from sites west of the RSA. Both emeralds are northern species found in the same habitats: level, mossy peatlands with shallow pools. Larvae are presumed to live within saturated peat and take at least two years to reach adulthood. Dragonflies are conspicuous and important members of wetland ecosystems. The aquatic larvae are predators of other insects. Dragonfly larvae may also be eaten by fish and birds. As adults, dragonflies are major predators of biting flies, and are eaten by swallows and other birds that hunt on the wing

Neither the Quebec emerald nor Whitehouse’s emerald was detected during the invertebrate surveys undertaken in July 2005 in the LSA. No additional at-risk dragonflies were detected in the Project Footprint. Most of the wetlands surveyed or inspected did not contain habitat suitable for the Quebec or Whitehouse’s emerald. Potentially suitable peatland habitat was found at three wetlands at KP/KL 317.6, KL 402.1 and KL 434.0 to KL 435.3.

5.2.10 Species at Risk This subsection identifies plant and animal species at risk whose habitat potentially occurs along the Proposed Route, and will assist in identifying any concerns associated with construction and reclamation. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to the species at risk are discussed in Section 6.2.10 of this EA report.

5.2.10.1 Rare Vascular and Nonvascular Plants This section presents an in depth overview of the species at risk listed in the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005). It includes a summary of the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005) listed VEC findings of the Vegetation Survey (TERA/Westland 2005a). Where warranted, this information was supplemented with materials listed in the Section 5.5. A list of other rare plant species and plant communities potentially occurring in the RSA is presented in Tables 5C.1 to 5C.4 found in Appendix 5C.

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Haller’s Apple Moss Haller’s apple moss is the only federally listed species of concern identified by the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005) for consideration as a VEC in the Project assessment. It is listed as Threatened by both COSEWIC and SARA Schedule 1. Provincially, Haller’s apple moss is listed as S1 in Alberta and S1/Red in BC.

The species is a medium size moss found in tufts 4 to 13 cm high, green to yellow or brownish green in colour. The capsules are on very short seta (stalks), and immersed among the leaves. The species grows in mountainous regions. It has been found in crevices and ledges of forested cliffs, and on exposed stabilized talus slopes often associated with siliceous (acidic) rocks.

Little is known of the biology of Haller’s apple moss. It is a monoicous species (male and female reproductive structures on same plant). It is not clear what the limiting factors are for the species. Although the species produces abundant spores and inhabits very common mountain habitats, it has not dispersed widely or successfully.

One population is known to exist in JNP. It was first observed within the park in 1980 and subsequent observations in 1999, 2001 and 2002 have been recorded. A multi-jurisdictional Recovery Team of Parks Canada, the Government of BC and a non-government representative has been formed and known sites were resurveyed in 2002. A preliminary draft Recovery Strategy has been prepared and is being reviewed.

Haller’s apple moss was not found during the nonvascular surveys along the Proposed Route in 2005.

Boreal Moonwort Boreal moonwort is not ranked in Alberta and S1 ranked and red-listed in BC. There are taxonomic issues with Botrychia in general, since they are difficult to differentiate by appearance and often require genetic (e.g., isozyme) analysis to distinguish between species. Current evidence suggests that B. boreale is a species endemic to northern Europe and there is no conclusive evidence that it occurs in North America. Identification of Botrychium boreale in BC are suspect and are believed to be wrong identifications of Botrychium pinnatum, which is not considered rare in BC (S3/S4 Yellow). Field studies conducted in August 1999 for BC Parks identified Botrychium boreale at two locations within MRPP. However, these records are not confirmed. No occurrences of the species were observed in the Project Footprint during the vegetation survey.

Canada Anemone In BC, Canada anemone is ranked as S2S3 and is on the Blue list. Although Canada anemone is not considered a rare species in Alberta, it was considered a VEC for the entire Project and was searched for during the 2005 field surveys.

This is a 20 to 70 cm tall perennial herb, native to BC (E-Flora BC 2005) with several long-stemmed lower leaves that are 3 to 5 parted, sharply toothed and strongly veined. The upper leaves are stalkless and more deeply cleft. The flowers are long-stemmed and have five white, 1 to 2 cm long petals. The seed head is round, and the seeds are flat with a short beak. This species occurs in damp meadows, thickets, sandy shores and forest openings in the Montane zone. Canada anemone is on of the most common anemones east of the Rocky Mountains, in Alberta, where it forms large patches at woodland edges and in low moist areas, ditches, shores and damp meadows. It is a poisonous plant that is toxic to both humans and livestock.

Canada anemone was observed in the LSA but not in the Project Footprint, and is the only occurrence of a VEC plant species identified in the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005) during the 2005 field investigations. One population containing thousands of plants was found in the LSA in MRPP (approximately KL 452.0).

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Purple-leaved Willowherb In BC, purple-leaved willowherb is ranked as S2S3 and is on the Blue list. Although purple-leaved willowherb is not considered a rare species in Alberta, it was considered a VEC for the entire Project and was searched for during the 2005 field surveys.

This species is a perennial herb, lacking rhizomes with stems 15 to 150 cm tall from basal rosettes or fleshy bulblets. Flowers range in colour from rose-purple to white with 2 to 14 mm long petals notched at the tip (E-Flora BC 2005). It occurs in wet to mesic disturbed areas, roadsides, fields and ditches from the lowland to montane zones at an average elevation of 225 m.

There were no occurrences of purple-leaved willowherb observed in the Project Footprint during the vegetation survey.

Meadow Willow In BC, meadow willow is ranked as S2S3 and is on the Blue list. Although meadow willow is not considered a rare species in Alberta, it was considered a VEC for the entire Project and was searched for during the 2005 field surveys.

This species is a non-colonial dioecious shrub 1 to 6 m tall, with erect branches, and yellowish twigs sparsely to moderately hairy. It favours unisexual reproduction producing catkin flowers that emerge into capsules and split open to release the seeds, each of which is surrounded by a tuft of hair aiding in dispersal (E-Flora BC 2005). Meadow willow occurs in wet thickets in the lower Montane zone at an elevation range of 630 to 1,350 m.

There were no occurrences of meadow willow observed in the Project Footprint during the Vegetation Survey.

5.2.10.2 Rare Wildlife Species This subsection presents an in depth overview of the species at risk listed in the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005). It includes a summary of the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005) listed VEC findings of the Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Technical Report (TERA/Westland 2005b). Where warranted, this information was supplemented with materials listed in the reference section (Section 5.5). A list of other rare wildlife species potentially occurring in the LSA is presented in Table 5C.5 found in Appendix 5C.

Bull Trout Bull trout is the only federally listed fish species of concern identified by the TOR (CEA Agency et al. 2005) for consideration as a VEC in the Project assessment. It is listed as Special Concern by COSEWIC. Provincially, bull trout is ranked as S3/Sensitive in Alberta and listed as Blue in BC.

Bull trout are widespread throughout both the upper Athabasca River and upper Fraser River watersheds, however, their numbers have been declining for the last century throughout their range (Nelson and Paetz 1992, Ford et al. 1995, Post and Johnston 2002). Bull trout were previously thought to be Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma), a closely related species found in coastal watersheds; earlier records of Dolly Varden in the study area are assumed to represent bull trout (Mayhood 1992). This species is extremely vulnerable to overharvest, habitat changes, movement barriers, and replacement or displacement by introduced species such as brook trout. Bull trout are an identified wildlife species at risk in BC (Haas 1998) and considered ‘sensitive’ in Alberta (Berry 1994, Post and Johnston 2002). Zero bag limits and closure of spawning grounds over the last decade appear to have had a positive effect on abundance in some systems (Post and Johnston 2002).

Bull trout display three life history strategies: stream-resident populations remain within tributaries throughout their life; fluvial populations spawn in tributaries but reside in main stem rivers; and adfluvial populations spawn in tributaries but reside in lakes or reservoirs. All three forms occur within the study area. They tend to select well-connected, structurally diverse streams with stable channels, low proportions of fine sediments, and pools for cover, overwintering and protection against high or low flows

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(Cross and Everest 1997). Water temperature and groundwater input are critical habitat characteristics that limit overall distribution.

Bull trout mature slowly, often spawning for the first time in their fifth to seventh year and living for up to 20 years. Bull trout are fall spawners and begin movements toward spawning tributaries in between mid- May and August. Individuals generally return to the same spawning area. Spawning occurs from mid- August to October when water temperature falls below 9°C to 10°C. Preferred spawning habitat characteristics are: current velocity of 0.25 to 0.65 cm/s, substrate comprised of gravel-cobble mixture 16 mm to 64 mm in diameter containing less than 10% fines at a depth of 0.15 m to 0.84 m; nearby instream cover, and groundwater inflow (Nelson and Paetz 1992, Ford et al. 1995, Post and Johnston 2002, Joynt and Sullivan 2003). Bull trout embryos develop during the winter and optimum incubation temperature for eggs is 2°C to 4°C. At optimum temperature, the incubation time is 95 to 125 days (Ford et al. 1995), or about 13 to 18 weeks. The recommended dissolved oxygen concentration for incubating embryos is 9.5 mg/L (Ford et al. 1995, Barton and Taylor 1996).

Bull trout hatch as early as January or February in BC (Ford et al. 1995) and in March and April in Alberta (Joynt and Sullivan 2003). The fry remain in the gravel interstices, taking advantage of sub-surface flow even under total ice coverage (Post and Johnston 2002), and emerge from April to June after about 65 to 90 days of yolk sac absorption (Ford et al. 1995). After emergence, fry avoid current in riffles and runs and hold in backwaters and side channels. They remain within 3 cm of the substrate or within the interstices, often associated with cover provided by cobble and boulders (Ford et al. 1995, Post and Johnston 2002). Juveniles similarly avoid high current velocity and prefer pools up to 1 m deep with cover for both feeding and protection (Ford et al. 1995, Post and Johnston 2002). Primary food items of juveniles are benthic insects, notably Trichoptera, Ephemeroptera and Diptera (Barton 1996). Their preferred temperature for growth is less than 12°C (Ford et al. 1995). The recommended instantaneous dissolved oxygen content for juvenile bull trout is 7.75 mg/L (Ford et al. 1995).

Adult bull trout habitat preferences are similar to juveniles, however, low velocity pool areas are particularly important for mature adults (Post and Johnston 2002). Adult bull trout are piscivorous and will feed on other salmonids, particularly mountain whitefish, as well as catostomids, cyprinids and sculpins (Ford et al. 1995, Barton 1996).

Bull trout were collected in seven watercourses crossed by the Proposed Route in JNP and one in MRPP (Table 5.52). Information on these watercourses and other fish species found is presented in Section 5.2.6.1. Streams with suitable bull trout spawning habitat are most sensitive during the mid- August to October migration and spawning period, and through the winter until April-June to during periods of incubation and emergence.

TABLE 5.52

WATER CROSSINGS AT WHICH BULL TROUT WERE OBSERVED OR CAPTURED

Habitat Potential Water Crossing (Location) Fall Spawning Rearing Wintering Migration Fiddle River (KL 327.8) Medium Medium/Low Medium High Unnamed Channel High High High Medium (KP/KL 354.1) Snaring River (side channel) Medium High High Medium (KP/KL 360.3) Sucker Creek (KP/KL 371.9) Low High High High Cabin Creek (KP/KL 379.1) Medium High High Medium Miette River (KP/KL 383.2) Medium/Low High High High Derr Creek (KL 400.0) High High High High Moose River (KL 433.3) Medium High High High

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Grizzly Bear Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) are of special status under COSEWIC (Special Concern), in BC (S3 / Blue listed) and Alberta (May be at Risk). The species has been selected as an indicator of ecological integrity in the JNP of Canada Management Plan. Grizzly bear populations in the RSA have been reduced as a result of hunting and habitat losses caused by logging, roads, mining, oil and gas exploration, and recreational developments beyond the protected area boundaries. Locations along the proposed route that rare known to be used by grizzly bears are presented in Section 5.2.9.6 (Table 5.41, Table 5.42 and Figure 5.3).

Distribution Grizzly bears historically occurred throughout Alberta, but have since been extirpated or are only transient in several areas, including prairie regions and the Cypress Hills. It is estimated that grizzly bears currently occupy 35% (276,404 km²) of the entire province, including the national parks. In 1990, it was estimated that there was a total of 790 grizzly bears in Alberta and in 2002 it was estimated that the grizzly bear numbers had increased to just over 1,000. However, the model used in the initial 1990 study has been questioned and a new study has since been undertaken. The results of this study are not available at this date. In JNP, there were an estimated 105 to 125 grizzly bears in 1979 and an estimated 100 to 110 grizzly bears in 2000.

BC is considered to have approximately half the Canadian grizzly bear population and one quarter of the grizzly bears remaining in North America. They historically occurred throughout BC, but have since been extirpated from approximately 10% of their former range in the province, specifically in the south and south-central and parts of the Cariboo and northeast BC. The 2004 population estimate for grizzly bears in BC is approximately 17,000, which is only half of estimated historic numbers in the province. This decline in numbers and range has been attributed to unsustainable levels of human-caused mortality and the loss of effective habitat. However, populations remain healthy over much of their provincial range. The MRPP and the BC segment of the Proposed Route are located within the Robson Grizzly Bear Population Unit (GBPU). The grizzly bear population in this unit is considered viable and the most current estimate is 689 bears in the entire GBPU and 74 bears in MRPP. Grizzly bears are known to occur throughout MRPP in all elevation zones and seasonally, they use habitats from valley bottoms to alpine.

Life History Grizzly bears are a wide-ranging species and mobility is an important aspect of grizzly bear biology. They require large tracts of suitable habitat wherein individuals can move freely and establish home ranges. Generally, males have larger home ranges than females. Within JNP, home ranges are approximately 331 km2 for females and 948 km2 for males. Grizzly bears may make extensive seasonal movements to and from winter den sites and to areas of abundant food, particularly during late summer and fall when foraging activity increases. They often travel along wildlife or human trails on valley bottoms and over low passes, but also use open forest edge, river and lake shorelines, ridges, dry creek beds, avalanche chutes, logging roads, and transmission line and pipeline rights-of-way.

Understanding food habits is important for understanding grizzly bear seasonal distribution and habitat use. Bears may travel a vast area in their search for food. They are omnivorous and opportunistic in their feeding habits and consume large quantities of high quality food.

Grizzly bears have one of the lowest reproductive rates among North American mammals. Females usually do not reproduce until they are 5 to 6 years of age and usually cease producing cubs when they are about 20 to 25 years of age. Females have an average of about 2 cubs each breeding cycle. The cubs usually remain with the mother for 2.5 to 3.5 years, so her inter-birth interval is often 3 to 4 years. As a result, a female may only give birth to 7 to 13 cubs during her lifetime, 30 to 40% which will likely die within a year. Breeding occurs from the end of April to mid-July.

Since grizzly bears have low reproductive rates, mortality is a major factor limiting grizzly bear population growth. Increases in mortality do not appear to be compensated by increases in cub production or survivorship, or in subadult survivorship. Survival and productivity of adult females is critical to population viability and it is important to minimize human-caused mortality risk to female bears to ensure a stable or

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Habitat Use Grizzly bears use different habitats through the year to exploit seasonal changes in the availability and nutritional quality of foods, from valley bottoms to alpine meadows. Local variation likely occurs in the feeding pattern and habitat use of individual bears in the LSA, particularly for those occupying largely east slopes versus west slopes or foothill versus mountain habitats.

In early spring, grizzly bears typically move from winter dens to low elevation valley bottoms. They will seek out south-facing and wind-blown terrain at lower elevations that may provide roots, over-wintered berries, and early green shoots of graminoids and forbs. As more vegetation begins to green up, grizzly bears will graze on green vegetation along valley bottom riparian areas, wetlands, or wet seepage sites. As spring progresses, some grizzly bears will seek out ants in dry, open south- and west-facing forests and old burns. Other grizzly bears will follow receding snow up valleys and avalanche slopes to feed on emerging vegetation. Higher elevation roots are dug in late spring in moist subalpine meadows and avalanche slopes. Grizzly bears will opportunistically feed on carrion and prey on winter-weakened ungulates or ungulate calves shortly after the calves are born in spring. These prey species are common in the LSA. Many human-disturbed habitats, such as pipeline and transportation route rights-of-way, where clover, dandelion, and lush grasses grow, are attractive feeding sites for grizzly bears, particularly in spring. However, using these areas increases their vulnerability to human-caused mortality due to the accessibility of those sites and their close proximity to human developed areas.

In summer and fall, grizzly bears feed mainly on berries. Berry-producing habitats are generally found under open canopies, well-drained and early succession forests and low shrublands, in semi-open, upland mesic forests and in burned areas. In wetter areas west of the continental divide, grizzly bears may feed in low elevation valley bottoms in late summer and fall where there is an abundance of berry species. Side slope, wet seepage areas also may have abundant devil’s club berries. Some bears likely will move to higher elevation mountain hemlock forests or avalanche slopes with an abundance of black huckleberry.

Security habitat for grizzly bears is variable, but is used to avoid intraspecific (bear to bear) and interspecific (primarily bear to human) contact. Forested habitats may be used as security from other bears; therefore, forested habitats adjacent to foraging areas are important. Higher quality habitats adjacent to roads or other areas of human disturbance may not be used if adequate forest cover is not available. Forested habitats also provide thermal cover for bears, providing shelter from precipitation and shade during hot weather. Water sources, such as ponds, streams and wetlands are important for cooling.

Grizzly bears in the RSA generally enter their dens from mid-October to late November and remain in dens until mid-March to mid-May. The timing and duration of denning varies between sex and age classes. Male bears usually den later and emerge earlier than females and pregnant females generally den for longer periods than do solitary females or females with yearlings. Grizzly bears in the mountainous terrain found in western portions of the RSA may den at elevations of around 2,000 m asl whereas bears found in the foothills of RSA of the Alberta segment may den at elevations around 1,400 m asl. Slopes where deep snow accumulates and where the entrance is protected from strong winds are suitable for denning. Den habitats tend to be sloped, and have dry, stable soil conditions that remain frozen during the winter. Wet or seepage areas and areas with shallow soils or many boulders are avoided.

Table 5.53 summarizes grizzly bear habitat suitability of wildlife habitats crossed by the Proposed Route.

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TABLE 5.53

ECOLOGICAL LAND CLASSIFICATION GRIZZLY BEAR HABITAT SUITABILITY RATINGS FOR ECOSITES MAPPED WITHIN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

JNP Grizzly Bear Suitability Ratings Habitat VECs Ecosite Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct VL1 H H M H M M H Wetlands, shrub and VL3 H H H H H H H riparian forest VL4 H VH VH VH H H M VL5 M H H H M M L DV2 H H H VH H H H HD2 VH H H H H VH VH HD3 H M M H H H H Douglas-fir and white NY1 H H M H H H H spruce forest NY3 VH H M H H H H TA3 H M L VH VH VH H CA2 L L P M M M L AT3 VH H M H H H H DV1 H H M M M M H Grassland and dry slope HD4 H H M M M H H TA2 VH H M H H H VH AT1 H H M VH VH VH H BV1 M M L H H H H FR1 H M L VH VH H H Pine forest PR1 M L L H H H M PT1 H M L VH VH VH H PT3 VH H M H VH VH H CA1 L L L M M M M Floodplain spruce forest PT5 H H M VH VH VH H Aspen and balsam poplar HD1 VH H H VH H VH H forest PT4 VH VH H VH VH VH VH Cedar and hemlock forest RA4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A RA3 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Cedar- mixed wood forest RD4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Notes: VH = very high, H = high, M = medium, L = low, P = present, N = nil, N/A = not assessed

Wolverine The wolverine is of special status under COSEWIC (Special Concern), in BC (S3 / Blue Listed) and Alberta (S3 / May be at Risk). It is the largest member of the weasel family (Mustelidae) and is widely distributed at low densities throughout most of northern North America and Eurasia. Within JNP, the Sunwapta River and Poboktan Creek watersheds have been identified as important watersheds for wolverines. They are occasionally observed in MRPP, especially in the upper Moose River valley, north of the LSA (KP/KL 433.0).

Wolverines are a wide-ranging and solitary species. Males typically have substantially larger home ranges than females. Wolverines occur at low population densities in southeast BC (one animal per 167 km2). Based on this density, the RSA may host approximately 40 to 80 wolverines.

Wolverines use a variety of habitats at different times of the year. They appear to occupy high-elevation sites (subalpine and alpine) in summer and mid- to low-elevation sites (e.g., montane forests and riparian areas) in winter and are therefore, most likely to use the LSA during winter. In JNP, wolverines use lodgepole pine-dominated burns, stream channels and Engelmann spruce-Subalpine fir. Stream channels

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Wolverines have a low reproductive rate and a low rate of survival for all age classes. Wolverines breed in late spring and early summer, and 2-5 kits are born during the following January to April period. Characteristic areas where wolverines den include any area where snow can accumulate, such as ravines, boulder talus slopes, snow-covered fallen trees and peat bogs with adequate cover (boulders or fallen trees).

Wolverines are opportunistic scavengers and predators depending on the time of year. Wolverines can be found at lower elevations in winter, at which time they rely heavily on the remains of large ungulates. During the summer months, wolverines are found at higher elevations and feed principally on marmots, ground squirrels, other small mammals and birds. The main natural predators of wolverines are wolves, cougars and other wolverines. Anthropogenic sources of mortality include trapping and road/rail kills. Habitat fragmentation due to human settlement, logging, oil and gas development, and the accompanying human access may also affect wolverine activity.

Woodland Caribou Woodland caribou is of special status under COSEWIC (Threatened), in Alberta (S2/At Risk) and BC (S1/Red-listed). Woodland caribou have very restricted distribution in the JNP and MRPP. No caribou have been recorded in the montane ecoregion in JNP since 1975 and no preferred caribou habitat is found in the LSA in any route segment.

The nearest recorded summer ranges for caribou in the area are the Tonquin Valley Range, approximately 20 km south of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 380.0 and the Upper Snaring/Upper Miette River Valley Range located about 35 km north of the Proposed Route at KL 400.0. Occasional winter and summer sightings of caribou have also been reported in the Moose River area about 3 km upslope of the Proposed Route at KL 433.0. Historically, woodland caribou have been recorded to cross the LSA in the vicinity of Yellowhead Pass (approximately KL 408.0). There are no recent records of caribou activity in the LSA in either JNP or MRPP. However, there were reports during consultations with environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs) and regulatory agencies of occasional caribou sightings in the RSA west of Jasper townsite near Clairvaux creek and in the Yellowhead Pass area.

Woodland caribou have seasonal movement patterns that generally involve little horizontal distance but strong elevational shifts. Woodland caribou activity in the RSA is most concentrated at elevations ranging from approximately 1,500 m to greater than 2,000 m. The late winter diet of woodland caribou consists almost entirely of arboreal hair lichens. Summer food resources consist of a variety of forbs, grasses, terrestrial lichens and leaves of low shrubs. Caribou rutting occurs from late September through October. Calving occurs in June and pregnant cows seek out rugged, remote areas for calving. Small groups of 6 to 10 cows and calves forage together throughout the summer months.

The current population of the caribou herd found in the northern portion of JNP is estimated to be approximately 50 animals. The population of this herd is considered to be stable. The South Jasper population, however, is in decline and has dropped about 50% in the last 16 years to an estimated 100 animals. Wolf predation and lack of suitable habitat, especially older forests with arboreal lichens, appear to be the main factors limiting woodland caribou in the RSA.

Western Toad Western, or boreal, toads (S4/Sensitive in Alberta, Special Concern of COSEWIC, IUCN Red List) occur throughout the LSA. Despite the species’ broad range, numerous population declines have been reported for this species in the United States, and anecdotal evidence also suggests potential declines in southwestern BC. Reasons proposed for the declines include pathogens, disease, effects of non-native species, ultraviolet radiation and climate change.

Western toads breed in early spring in a variety of habitat types, including slow-moving streams, the shallow margins of lakes, ponds, marshes and bogs, and in road side ditches. Females lay their eggs in strings containing up to 1,500 to 5,000 eggs in shallow water, on shallow pond bottoms or amongst

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Outside of the breeding season, adult toads are highly terrestrial relative to most other amphibian species, inhabiting both open-canopy forest habitats, meadows and shrub habitats. Closed canopy forest areas tend to be avoided as overwintering areas. Toads often burrow underground, utilizing natural openings and abandoned mammal burrows. Although toads tend to have distinct home ranges (e.g., less than 0.1 ha to 7 ha) they may travel extensively away from breeding sites. Hibernation may begin in early October. Toads hibernate up to 1.3 m below ground and hibernacula are reused across years. Communal hibernation is common. Western toads are preyed upon by coyotes, skunks, foxes, corvids and garter snakes.

Table 5.54 identifies observed locations of western toad at wetlands within the Project Footprint.

TABLE 5.54

OBSERVED WESTERN TOADS IN WETLAND HABITATS WITHIN THE PROJECT FOOTPRINT

Location Along the Proposed Route General Habitat Description Life Stages Alberta KP/KL 315.7 Powerline depression with central open-water area Juvenile KP/KL 317.7 Shallow, open water pond within black spruce muskeg habitat Tadpole KP & KL 317.72 Shallow, open-water pond within black spruce muskeg habitat Egg, Tadpole KP/KL 324.0 One of two sewage ponds in a field; horse trails nearby Egg Jasper National Park KL 332.0 Shallow, open-water area with snags; little vegetation.; muddy/silty bottom Tadpole KL 333.3 Large open-water area; silty bottom; little vegetation (when flooded Tadpole connected to whole area) KP/KL 357.7 Large open-water wetland; willow border and sedges Adult KP/KL 362.2 Large open-water wetland (with small isolated ponds along NW edge) Adult KP/KL 384.3 In early spring, area was large, shallow open-water wetland with emergent Tadpole vegetation along shore KP/KL 396.4 Small wetland with graminoids, surrounded by willow Adult KP/KL 398.5 Small channel through willow/sedge habitat Tadpole, Adult Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 413.6 Lake; muddy edge; shallow shoreline along south edge; beaver activity Tadpole (channels and ponds) along south edge British Columbia None None N/A

5.2.11 Heritage Resources This subsection identifies heritage resources in the LSA and presents a summary of three heritage resources assessments conducted by R&W Archaeological Consulting Ltd. (R&W 2005a,b) and Madrone Environmental Services Ltd. (Madrone 2005). This information was supplemented as warranted with materials listed in Section 5.5. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to heritage resources are discussed in Section 6.2.11 of this EA report.

The Eastern Slopes area, stretching from the continental divide in the west to the Foothills ecosystem in the east, represents a transitional zone between the Rocky Mountain and the Boreal Forest Natural

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Regions. Culturally, the area can be seen as transitional, used by the Boreal Forest cultures, with evidence of influence showing up from the Plains and the Plateau.

The archaeological record in northern Alberta has been divided into four distinct periods.

1. During the Early Period, around 10,000 Before Present (BP), large game hunters from the plains migrated north into what is now the Boreal Forest area, following the bison. Archaeological records show that the Eastern Slopes were continually utilized during this time period.

2. The Middle Period of the archaeological record was a time of changing climate and environment. The climate became warmer and drier which resulted in vegetation patterns across the province similar to present day. New technologies were developed during this time, which is reflected in the archaeological record of this period. The areas in and around the mountain parks, including JNP, have numerous Middle Period sites.

3. The Late Period, which began around 2,000 BP with the introduction of two new technologies, the bow and arrow and pottery. Numerous archaeological sites from this period exist within and around the mountain parks.

4. During the Historic Period, aboriginal groups in Alberta came into direct contact with Europeans through the expansion of the fur trade. The European trade was incorporated into the well- established North American trade network, establishing fur trading posts.

The Yellowhead Pass has been a major transportation route that was used by Aboriginal groups since the end of the last glaciation. The area, which offers a low altitude corridor through the Rocky Mountains, has numerous prehistoric sites recorded within the corridor. Evidence of past human occupation of JNP goes back 10,000 years.

The ethnographic record indicates that the Yellowhead and other passes were important corridors for moving trade goods across the mountains as part of the large North American trade network that existed throughout prehistory. The archaeological record and ethnographic reports indicate that materials from the interior and coastal regions were regularly traded to areas east of the Rocky Mountains. Items such as obsidian for tool making, salmon and candle fish, and marine shells have all been recorded as being regular trade items moved over the mountains. Materials such as hides from large game and high quality lithic materials such as Knife River Flint were in turn traded into the coastal and interior regions.

In MRPP and BC, areas in the LSA are almost devoid of archaeological sites and features which are evidence of long and short-term human occupation. The distribution of such sites suggests that Yellowhead Pass itself was not used as a major occupation area, but was used as a travel route between more permanent occupation to the east and west. This pattern of human occupation seems to have persisted throughout both pre-historic times and into more recent times.

Several aboriginal groups traveled through and possibly occupied the Robson Valley and Yellowhead Pass, including people from the Rocky Mountain trench areas to the north of Tete Jaune Cache. Aboriginal groups from the Alberta side of the Rocky Mountains also occupied and made use of the RSA and even eastern Canada tribes are known to have traveled through the valley during the early to mid 1800s.

The earliest documented presence of non-aboriginal human occupation and land-use in the Yellowhead Pass-Robson Valley areas is just prior to 1820 when what became known as the Yellowhead Pass was first used as an east-west route by Metis and French Canadian voyageurs. Although the Yellowhead Pass route through the Rocky Mountains continued to be used by fur traders, explorers, settlers and various other travelers for the next half of a century, the route saw little other activity or settlement by non- natives until the late 1800s when the Jasper and Mount Robson areas became a mecca for mountaineers, hikers and naturalists. By the beginning of the First World War, railroad track had been laid and trains were bringing visitors into the Robson Valley.

The construction of two railways through the Yellowhead Pass and westward to Tete Jaune Cache, resulted in a large contingent of railway workers and others coming into the area and settling in instant towns which sprang up adjacent to the railways in such places as Summit City, Lucerne, Moose City, Red

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Pass, Resplendent and Morey. Some of these settlements were little more than a gathering of a few shacks, while others such as Lucerne, became proper towns complete with schools, a bank and post office, bars, stores and residential areas. Summit City is a historic Grand Trunk Pacific Railway work camp (1913) located in the Project Footprint at Yellowhead Pass (approximately KP/KL 406.3). The camp was made up of tents and shacks, and later became somewhat more substantial before eventual abandonment by the late 1930s. This site was recorded in 1999 by Parks Canada staff as Site 1984R and designated as a “Level 1” cultural resource and recommended for further detailed recording and study. At about the same time as the railways were being built, and due to a growing need for a road link between Alberta and BC, a “Tote Road” was constructed through the Yellowhead Pass and west to Tete-Jaune Cache. The Tote Road remained in use until the Second World War when it was upgraded and expanded by Japanese-Canadian internees who were housed in several camps in the Mount Robson Valley area.

The Mount Robson valley, like a number of other places around BC and Alberta, became the wartime home to a considerable number of Japanese Canadians, beginning in 1942. The Valemount Historical Society’s (1984) account of historical events within this area shows that by October of 1942, close to 260 Japanese Canadian men had been shipped off to internment camps in the area between Blue River and the BC - Alberta border (Valemount Historical Society 1984). The main internment camps were located at Lucerne, Rainbow, Red Pass and at the present site of the truck weigh station near the intersection of Highways 5 and 16, just downriver from Rearguard Falls. For the most part, the men were employed at improving and expanding the existing “Tote Road” which was considered a strategic part of the wartime transportation network. A number of temporary tent camps were also established to house the internment workers along the Tote Road route. One of these was situated at the confluence of the Moose and Fraser rivers where a large river-side terrace provides good camping to this day. However, little or no evidence of these camps can be found today and even the more permanent Internment Camps have all but disappeared as a result of later highway development and the forces of nature.

In JNP, there are several historic Métis homesteads located in the LSA, including the Moberly House (250 m south of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 354.0) (Plate 5A.36) and the Joachim House (adjacent to KP/KL 354.0). Metis settlers lived in JNP in the early 1900s before roads and railroads were built (Metis Nation of Alberta, 2005).

In JNP, there are five National Historic Sites in the RSA. National Historic Sites are places that demonstrate Canada’s diversity of geography and cultures, and express elements of Canada’s national identity and illustrate key aspects of the past (Parks Canada 1997). National Historic Sites in JNP are Henry House, Jasper House, the JNP Information Centre, Athabasca pass and Yellowhead pass.

Fur trading posts were established at Henry House in 1811 and Jasper House in 1829. The exact location of Henry House is not known, but is thought to be located on the east side of the Athabasca River between Old Fort point (east of KP/KL 377.5) and the Maligne River (east of KP/KL 370.0), in the LSA (Parks Canada 2005). Jasper House, is located approximately 1 km east of KP/KL 341.0. Some remains of the post are still evident. The JNP Information Centre was the first major building in the Jasper townsite and is an influential example of rustic architecture. It is located approximately 420 m west of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 376.0.

The Yellowhead Pass was declared a National Historic Site in 1971. The commemoration recognized the pass’ importance as a transportation route, and the designation was due in part to the changing use of the pass through the Historic Period, from fur trade route, to railway route at the turn of the century, to the current modern highway. The Athabasca Pass, also a National Historic Site, was a major fur trade transportation route traversed by David Thompson and other early adventurers during the mid 1800s.

Shortly after the establishment of Jasper Forest Park (now called JNP) in 1907, plans were made to establish a rail link through the park. In 1911, the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway was constructed through the Yellowhead Pass, followed by the CNA Railway in 1913. Numerous sites associated with their construction were left within the Park. These include storage sheds, lumber stockpile sites, construction camps and cabins. Fitzhugh station, at the present site of the Jasper townsite, was created for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway. The station was renamed Jasper.

Plans are ongoing to designate the abandoned CNA Railway beds west of Jasper townsite (KP/KL 380.0) as a Level 1 National Historic Site. This designation would apply to the abandoned rail beds and the

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The Canadian Heritage Rivers System (CHRS) is Canada's national river conservation program. It ensures the sustainable management of Canada's main rivers and promotes, protects and enhances Canada's river heritage. Two heritage rivers are found in the LSA. The Athabasca River was designated in 1989 for its outstanding natural beauty, historical significance and importance for river recreation. The Fraser River was designated as a Canadian Heritage River in 1998 because of its natural and human heritage. It is the most productive salmon river in the world (CHRS 2005). The reach of the Athabasca River designated as a Heritage River is 168 km long and lies entirely within JNP, commencing at the Athabasca Glacier and terminating north of Jasper townsite (KP/KL 370.0) (CHRS 2005). The Proposed Route crosses the Athabasca River at KL 337.3 and, therefore, does not cross the section with heritage designation. The entire length of the Fraser River is designated as a Heritage River. The Proposed Route crosses the Fraser River at KL 458.1.

Field Results

Alberta Archaeological resource sensitivity along the Alberta segment of the Proposed Route is considered high (Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism 1987). Alberta Community Development (ACD) (2005) has identified archaeological resources as the primary historical resource issues for these lands and has assigned Historical Resource Value (HRV) ratings of 4 and 5.

During the 2005 archaeological assessment, no previously recorded or new historic sites were identified in the Project Footprint in Alberta (R&W 2005a). A total of 104 shovel tests were excavated to examine for the presence of subsurface sites, including three previously recorded archaeological sites. All testing proved negative for cultural materials. Most of the Proposed Route in this segment traverses areas of side slope, considered to have low potential for the recovery of cultural materials.

Jasper National Park In JNP, archaeological resource sensitivity in the LSA has not been rated by Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism (1987) and ACD (2005) has not rated lands within this segment for their HRV. During the 2005 archaeological assessment, a total of 40 archaeological sites were assessed in the LSA. Twenty-six of these were existing sites that were revisited and 14 were newly identified sites (Table 5.55) (Plates 5A.35 to 5A.38).

Mount Robson Provincial Park During the 2005 archaeological assessment, a total of seven archaeological and historic sites were assessed in the LSA. Three of these were existing sites that were revisited and four were newly identified sites (Table 5.55).

British Columbia During the 2005 archaeological assessment, no newly or previously recorded archaeological sites were identified in the LSA in BC.

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TABLE 5.55

HISTORICAL / ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Relation to Project Interpretive Location Site # Site Type Footprint Value1 Alberta None N/A None N/A N/A Jasper National Park KL 331.2 2206R Possible Graves Within High KP/KL 332.2 219R Industrial; Pocahontas Coal Mine Complex Outside High KP/KL 342.05 249R/250R Habitation; Cabin/Root Cellar Within High KP/KL 345.3 2195R Transportation; Wooden Survey Marker Within Low KP/KL 347.0 2043R Precontact; Lithic Workshop Within High Multi-Component; Prehistoric Campsite, Historic KP/KL 354.0 281R Homestead Within High KP/KL 354.15 282R Prehistoric; Buried Campsite Within High KP/KL 363.1 2190R Prehistoric; Surface Scatter Within Low KP/KL 364.2 2209R Prehistoric; Surface Scatter Within Low KP/KL 364.5 2191R Prehistoric; Isolated Find Within Low Multi-Component; Paleoindian Campsite; Historic KP/KL 365.2 979R Lean-To Within High KP/KL 365.5 1060R Historic; Fence Within Low KP/KL 370.75 995R Multi-Component; Historic Camp, Lithic Scatter Within High Multi-Component; Prehistoric Campsite, KP/KL 371.5 1003R Construction Camp Outside High Transportation; Cellar Depressions, Construction KP/KL 371.78 1007R Camp Outside High KP/KL 373.5 1011R Prehistoric; Isolated Find Within Low KP/KL 373.7 2194R Transportation; Wooden Survey Marker Within Low KP/KL 374.871 323R Habitation; Cabin, Laroque’s House Within High Multi-Component; Prehistoric Scatter, Historic KP/KL 375.011 1014R Scatter Within High KP/KL 376.6 1059R Transportation; Historic Scatter Within Low KP/KL 377.798 196R Transportation; Blasting Can Dump Outside Low KP/KL 379.22 2188R Habitation; Cabin Within Mod-High KP/KL 381.1 2208R Transportation, Habitation; Cellar Depressions Within High Multi-Component; Prehistoric Workshop, Historic KP/KL 382.8 1146R Scatter Within High KP/KL 387.85 2187R Habitation; Cabin Depression Within Moderate KL 388.709 1152R Habitation; Log Cabin Outside High KL 396.4 594R Historic; Stone Oven Within High KL 398.511 2212R Prehistoric; Buried Campsite Within High Multicomponent; Prehistoric Campsite, Historic KL 398.7 2211R Ditch/Berm Within High KL 398.818 2192R Prehistoric; Workshop, Lithic Scatter Within High KL 398.836 2193R Historic; Blasting Can Dump Within Low KL 398.850 1169R Habitation; Log Cabin Outside High KL 402.5 1183R Historic; Grave Within High KL 402.933 2197R Transportation; Blasting Can Dump Within Low KL 403.137 1184R Habitation; Log Cabins Within High

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TABLE 5.55 Cont'd

Relation to Project Interpretive Location Site # Site Type Footprint Value 1 KP/KL 403.464 1316R Historic; Blasting Can Dump Within Low KL 403.865 1304R Historic; Blasting Can Dump Within Low KL 403.967 1305R Historic; Blasting Can Dump Within Low KL 405.296 2144R Transportation; Railway Bed Within High KP/KL 405.5 1984R Transportation, Habitation; Townsite Within High Mount Robson Provincial Park KL/KP 406.45 1984R Summit City Townsite Within High KL 409.01 - historic camp Within Low KL 416.81 - axe-cut blaze mark Outside Low KL 418.68 - modified tree Within Low KL/KP 446.6 - culturally modified tree Outside High KL 448.4 - historic refuse dump Outside Low KL/KP 458.0 - small settlement Within High British Columbia None N/A None N/A N/A Note: 1 Interpretive values of low, moderate and high were assigned to each site based on their ability to offer information and add to existing archaeological knowledge

Palaeontological Resources A palaeontological survey was conducted in 2005 by L. Hills (Hills 2005). This subsection presents a summary of the palaeontological survey supplemented as warranted with materials listed in Section 5.5. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to palaeontological resources are discussed in Section 6.2.11 of this EA report.

In Alberta, palaeontological resource sensitivity in the LSA has been rated as unknown between KP/KL 310.1 and KP/KL 318.0, and as probable between KP/KL 318.0 and KL 325.7 (Alberta Culture 1984). It is suggested that the Proposed Route traverses one area with high palaeontological potential containing Upper Cretaceous fossils between KP/KL 312.0 and KP/KL 318.0.

In JNP, palaeontological resource sensitivity has been rated as probable for most of the LSA. It has been rated as medium between KL 329.2 and KL 334.85, KP/KL 341.1 and KP/KL 343, KP/KL 344.4 and KP/KL 344, and KP/KL 347.3 and KP/KL 348.7. Palaeontological resource sensitivity has been rated as high between KP/KL 343 and KP/KL 344.4 (Alberta Culture 1984). The Project Footprint traverses one area with high palaeontological potential containing Devonian Carboniferous fossils between KP/KL 349.5 and KP/KL 350.5 (Hills 2005) (Plate 5A.39).

Areas west of Jasper townsite, including the LSA in MRPP and BC, are underlain by Pre-Cambrian strata and are, therefore, unfossiliferous except for possible Holocene vertebrates (Plate 5A.40). No sites of palaeontological potential were identified in the Project Footprint of these segments of the Proposed Route (Hills 2005). Additional field assessment will be undertaken in Miette Group strata in the LSA between KP/KL 412.0 and KP/KL 416.0, and KP/KL 436.0 to KP/KL 441.0.

5.2.12 Traditional Land and Resource Use This subsection presents a summary of the Traditional Land and Resource Use (TLRU) Study (TERA/Westland 2005c) conducted for the Project. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to TLRU are discussed in Section 6.2.12 of this EA report. Through the Aboriginal consultation program (Section 4.0 of this EA report), Terasen Pipelines identified three Aboriginal groups considered to have interests in the Project area:

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• Aseniwuche Winewak Nation (AWN) of Canada (Grande Cache, Alberta), with interests extending from KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 468.0 (Plate 5A.41);

• Nakcowinewak Nation of Canada (Hinton, Alberta), with interests extending from KP/KL 310.1 to Robson Ranch (KP/KL 467.0) (Plate 5A.42); and

• Simpcw First Nation (Barriere, BC), with interests extending from KP/KL 323.0 to KP/KL 468.0 (Plate 5A.38).

The approach taken for the TLRU Study varied with each Aboriginal group. In general, initial discussions and meetings were held with each Aboriginal group beginning in October 2004. Field trips were conducted with each group during the summer of 2005. Elders or other knowledgeable members were identified by each Aboriginal group to participate in a field inspection of the Proposed Route. The field trips involved two days of on-the-ground reconnaissance at key access points along the Proposed Route and helicopter overflights of portions of the Proposed Route.

Aseniwuche Winewak Nation of Canada

A two-day field inspection took place on August 8 and 9, 2005. The AWN representatives viewed 16 sites along the pipeline route by foot. Additional areas were viewed from the highway, and the area from the Red Pass Gravel Pit (KP/KL 448.5) to the western terminus of the Project was viewed by helicopter.

Nakcowinewak Nation of Canada

A two-day field inspection took place on July 19 and 20, 2005. The field investigation started in Hinton with an orientation meeting and involved a helicopter overflight of the pipeline route between Hinton and Mount Robson Provincial Park. Following the helicopter inspection, the study team embarked on a van- supported field trip with frequent stops to discuss potential TLRU activities and information along the Proposed Route.

Simpcw First Nation

A two-day field inspection took place on August 3 and 4, 2005. The field investigation started at the Barriere office of the Simpcw First Nation, and proceeded to Valemount, where a helicopter overflight of the Project as far as Moose Lake was conducted. Following the helicopter inspection, the study team embarked on a van-supported field trip to a portion of the Proposed Route 2 km east of the JNP east gate, with frequent stops to discuss potential TLRU activities and information along the Proposed Route.

The investigations showed that the Aboriginal groups involved in the study have extensive familiarity with the land along the Proposed Route, and that the potential exists for effects on traditional use in specific areas. Areas of concern that were identified are:

• Land previously used for encampment, hunting and gathering near the eastern end of the Project area, south of Jasper-Hinton Airport

• Benchlands between Devona Flats and Jasper townsite, where encampments, hunting, trading and plant gathering were conducted. Settlement areas at Moberly Flats and near Snaring Warden Station had particular historical importance, as did unspecified locations where ceremonies were conducted.

• Wetland areas west of Jasper, which are valuable for medicinal plants and for moose hunting.

• Protecting water quality and riparian vegetation near stream crossings.

• The Project will be built in an area heavily used for travel by Aboriginal groups in pre-contact times and as recently as the 1930s.

• Improved accessibility to back-country areas afforded by the Project also increases access to areas used by Aboriginal groups for hunting or gathering, and access to areas of archaeological or ceremonial importance.

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5.2.13 Human Occupancy and Resource Use This subsection describes the current state of human occupancy and resource use in the LSA and RSA. It presents a summary of information contained in the Socio-Economic Report prepared by TERA/Westland (2005d), supplemented with materials listed in Section 5.5 as warranted. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to Human Occupancy and Resource Use are discussed in Section 6.2.13 of this EA report.

The Project Footprint, LSA and RSA were used to gather information for the Socio-economic Report. There are no communities found within the Project Footprint. Jasper townsite is the only community found in the LSA. Many communities are found in the RSA, however, only the main communities potentially affected by the Project are discussed. For the pipeline route, these are: Hinton in Alberta, Jasper in JNP, and Tete Jaune Cache and Valemount in BC.

5.2.13.1 Population and Demographics

Alberta

Hinton The Project begins about 8 km west of Hinton. The 2004 population of Hinton was estimated as 9,405 people. There was a 5.6% decline in population from 1996 to 2001 and since then, the population has remained constant. Approximately 33% of the population is between 25 and 44 years old, which represents the largest age demographic. The median age is 34 years.

The town had a workforce of 2,780 people in 2001. Sixty-nine percent of the population is working age (between 15 and 56 years of age), compared to 69% for Alberta as a whole.

Jasper National Park

Jasper Townsite The Jasper townsite is located between KP/KL 375.8 to KP/KL 379.7 and is in the Project LSA. In 2004, the population was estimated at 4,511, including 351 seasonal residents. The population has fluxuated: in 1999-2000 it reached a high of 4,691 and between 2001 and 2003, it reached a low of 4,180. Approximately 40% of the population is between 25 and 44 years old, which represents the largest age demographic. The median age is 32 years.

The town had a workforce of 3,110 people in 2001. Seventy-eight percent of the population is working age (between 15 and 56 years of age), which is substantially higher than 69% for Alberta as a whole.

Mount Robson Provincial Park There are no communities located in MRPP.

British Columbia

Tete Jaune Cache Tete Jaune Cache is located 13 km west of the MRPP boundary at the intersection of Highway 5 and Highway 16. Various sources provide conflicting information on the population of Tete Jaune Cache, ranging from 257 to 1,500. No information is available on the working-age population in Tete Jaune Cache.

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Valemount Valemount is located on Highway 5, south of the junction of Highways 6 and 5 about 35 km south of KP/KL 468. The 2004 population estimate was 1,244. Approximately 23% of the population is between 25 and 44 years old, which represents the largest age demographic. The median age is 37 years.

The town had a workforce of 735 people in 2001. Sixty-seven percent of the population is working age (between 15 and 56 years of age), which is similar to 68% for BC as a whole.

5.2.13.2 Development and Land Use Plans

Alberta In Alberta, the Project is located on provincial Crown land. Primary land uses in the LSA include forestry, oil and gas activity, and recreation. Other landuses in the valley include transportation and transmission, which are addressed in Section 5.2.16.

The LSA is located within lands classified by Yellowhead County as Mountain View Policy Area, which primarily supports residential land use, but also encourages oil and resource facility development. The Project complies with the intended use of lands in the Mountain View Policy Area.

The West Yellowhead Planning Agreement Area (Consultative Notation (CNT) 980017) covers areas along Highway 16 in the LSA (Table 5.56). Close to the JNP east gates, the Proposed Route crosses a recreational area buffer for JNP (Protective Notation (PNT) 880321). This buffer is intended to prevent clear-cut timber harvesting immediately adjacent to JNP (Matwie pers. comm.).

The Brûlé Lake Environmentally Significant Area (ESA) (Table 5.56) encompasses the south end and east shore of Brûlé Lake, and includes extensions along the Athabasca River and Highway 16. The Proposed Route crosses the extension of the ESA along Highway 16. There are no development restrictions for the Project associated with the ESA (Matwie pers. comm.).

Residences and recreational facilities in the LSA include a residential dwelling at KP/KL 313.6 (approximately 150 m south of the Proposed Route) and Overlander Mountain Lodge (KL/KP 323.9, approximately 360 m east of the Proposed Route). A Miscellaneous Use Permit (MLP) (040034) straddles the Proposed Route at KP/KL 312.2, where a commercial tourism development (Cougar Rock Resort) is planned. The proposed resort will include hotels, condominiums, lodges, a golf course and a shopping centre.

Table 5.56 summarizes land uses along the Proposed Route. No Indian Reserves, Aboriginal communities, conservation areas, International Biological Program sites, proposed or existing provincial parks, Ecological Reserves, Provincial Recreation Areas, designated Wilderness Areas or Natural Areas are crossed (Alberta Community Development (ACD) 2001, 2003).

Jasper National Park In JNP, the Project is on federal Crown lands. The entire Project Footprint is in Zone IV - Outdoor Recreation, as identified by the JNP of Canada Management Plan (Parks Canada 2000). Zone IV encompasses less than 1% of JNP’s total area, and generally follows the highway corridors through the park. Parks Canada’s objectives for Zone IV areas of the park include accommodating a broad range of opportunities for understanding, appreciating and enjoying the park’s heritage, allowing direct motorized access, and providing front-country facilities and easements along park roads. The Project is not within the Declared Wilderness Area in JNP.

The Project is located outside the Jasper townsite boundary; it is immediately adjacent to its southern and eastern boundary. The townsite is in Zone V - Park Services (Parks Canada 2000). The Jasper Community Plan (2001) guides land use decisions in the townsite and it is scheduled for review in 2006 (Parks Canada 2000). The segment of the Proposed Route from KP/KL 376.5 to KL 378.0 is immediately adjacent to land zoned as Services and Trade District. From KP/KL 377.5 to KL 378.3, the Proposed Route is adjacent to unzoned lands and lands zoned Institutional, where development of a new hostel is

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The Proposed Route is adjacent to several developments located outside the townsite. These developments include: the Jasper Sewage Treatment Plant, 275 m west of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 375.0; the Pine Bungalows, 275 m west of the route at KP/KL 375.5.

TABLE 5.56

LAND USE ALONG THE PROPOSED ROUTE ON THE ALBERTA SEGMENT

Proximity to Proposed Location Number Type Route Entire segment 8800025 Forest Management Area 0 m Entire segment - Wildlife Management Unit 483 0 m KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 313.5 980017 Consultative Notation 0 m KP/KL 317.0 to KP/KL 326.5 KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 310.8 980006 Forest Grazing Lease 0 m (NW of right-of-way) KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 311.8 950003 Forest Grazing Lease 0 m (SE of right-of-way) KP/KL 310.7 020558 Industrial Sample Plot > 1 km > 1 km > 1 km KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 317.1 2203 Trapping Area 50 m to 350 m east KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 317.1 2039 Trapping Area 0 m KP/KL 311.8 and 312.5 030138 Land Disposition Request 0 m KP/KL 312.2 040034 Miscellaneous Lease Permit 0 m (Cougar Rock development) KP/KL 313.2 020869 Industrial Sample Plot 550 m east KP/KL 316.2 020640 Industrial Sample Plot > 1 km KP/KL 317.1 to KP/KL 325.7 2202 Trapping Area 0 m KP/KL 318.0 020641 Industrial Sample Plot 600 m west 700 m west 700 m west KP/KL 319.0 to KP/KL 320.0 - Coal Lease 500 m KP/KL 319.0 to KL 325.0 - Metallic and Industrial Mineral 0 m Tenure KP/KL 322.5 020628 Industrial Sample Plot 100 m north 250 m west 250 m west KP/KL 322.5 to KL 325.7 - Brûlé Lake Environmentally 0 m Significant Area KP/KL 322.7 to KP/KL 323.2 E040001 Coniferous Timber Permit 450 m east KP/KL 323.7 to KP/KL 323.9 764355 Protective Notation 0 m KL 324.6 to KL 325.6 (Gravel source) KP/KL 324.9 to KL 325.5 880321 Protective Notation 0 m (Recreational Buffer)

With the exception of the Jasper townsite, (KP/KL 375.0 to KP/KL 380.0), the residences in the LSA are located near the east gates (KL 325.9), Pocahontas Bungalows (KL 332.8), the Pocahontas Warden Cabin (KL 333.0), the Snaring Warden Station (KP/KL 354.0), the Pine Bungalows (KP/KL 375.5) and the Decoigne Warden Station (near KL 401.1).

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Mount Robson Provincial Park In MRPP, the Proposed Route traverses provincial Crown land. The Project is on land are designated as Intensive Recreation Zone. The objective of the Intensive Recreation Zone is the accommodation of high levels of vehicle-based users in as natural a setting as possible. At the discretion of BC Parks, other uses may be permitted, including an oil pipeline. Consequently, there is no conflict between the Project and the land use objectives for this zone.

The LSA is zoned Intensive Recreation. The objective of the Intensive Recreation zone is to provide for a variety of readily-accessible, facility-oriented, outdoor recreation opportunities. This zone extends approximately 800 m on both sides of Highway 16, and is the most heavily used and developed part of the park. Visitor services and facilities in the LSA are related to day-use recreation, overnight camping and parking. Approximately 3% of MRPP is designated as Intensive Recreation. The Management Plan permits non-conforming facilities that benefit the people of BC in Intensive Recreation Zone. It also advocates maintaining pipeline, BC Hydro and BC Tel rights-of-way as parkland for recreation opportunities, such as bike paths and cross-country ski routes. The Project is consistent with policies and guidelines in the MRPP Management Plan.

There are no residences located in the LSA in MRPP.

British Columbia In BC, the Project is located on provincial Crown land and private lands.

The Project is subject to the Robson Valley Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP) (BC MSRM 1999). The Project is zoned Settlement-Agriculture. The intent of this zone designation is to manage the land for settlement and agriculture while recognizing wildlife and fisheries values. There are no conflicts between the management direction in the LRMP and the Project.

The Project is also subject to the Robson Valley-Canoe Upstream Official Community Plan (RVCU OCP), and the Project lands are zoned Agricultural-Resource Use (AG-RES). The Project abuts the Robson Ranch property, which is zoned as Recreation Commercial (RC). The Project is consistent with the policies contained in the RVCU OCP.

The Robson Ranch is the only residence in the LSA and is located approximately 150 m north of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 466.4.

5.2.13.3 Non Renewable Resource Use

Alberta In Alberta, the Proposed Route pass through a metallic and industrial permit from KP/KL 319.0 to KL 325.5. Permit holders are required to conduct exploration work and must report on the work every two years (Alberta Energy 2004).

A Coal Lease is found in the LSA between KP/KL 319.0 and KP/KL 320.0. Construction and operation of the Project is not expected to affect this coal lease.

There are no natural gas tenures in the LSA.

Potential gravel sources (Protective Notations (PNT) 764355) are located near KP/KL 323.8 (Alberta Energy 2005). Alberta Government raised no concerns with respect to these gravel sources (Matwie pers. comm.). Locations are identified in Table 5.56.

Jasper National Park Several gravel pits exist in JNP. Some are active, and are used for road or railroad construction or repair; others are not in use. Some of the gravel pits will be used as staging or storage areas during the construction phase of the Project. There are no mineral extraction activities or gas tenures in JNP.

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Mount Robson Provincial Park There are no mineral extraction or natural gas tenures in MRPP. There are current land use permits allowing gravel extraction in the park (BC MOE 1992).

British Columbia In BC, no non-renewable resource activity was identified in the LSA.

5.2.13.4 Renewable Resource Use

Alberta Renewable resource use locations are found in Table 5.56.

In Alberta, the Proposed Route crosses two Forest Grazing Leases (FGL 950003 and 980006) from approximately KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 311.8. One Land Disposition Request (LDR 030138) for the Maskuta Grazing Association is located east of the Hinton-Jasper Airport between KP/KL 311.8 to KP/KL 312.5.

The public land in the LSA is contained within Alberta Forest Management Unit E4. Coniferous Timber Permit (CTP E040001) is located approximately 450 m east of the Proposed Route KP/KL 322.7 to KP/KL 323.2. An access road that crosses the CTP between Highway 16 and the pipeline route may be used during construction activities

Between KP/KL 310.1 to KL 325.7, the Alberta Forest Management Agreement (FMA 8800025 expiry 2008) belongs to Weldwood of Canada Ltd.

The West Yellowhead LSA Planning Agreement Area (Consultative Notation (CNT) 980017) covers areas along the Highway 16 LSA from approximately KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 313.5 and KP/KL 317.0 to KL 325.7. There are several Mature Sample Plots (ISP) located in the LSA.

This portion of the Project is in Mountain Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) 438. In this area, the hunting season for white-tailed deer, mule deer, moose, elk and bear is from mid-September to the end of November. The hunting season for bears also includes the period between mid-April and mid-June. Trophy sheep can be hunted from the end of August through to the end of November, and cougar hunting begins in December and extends through to the end of February. Game bird hunting season begins in September and extends through to end of November or mid-December. Eight guide outfitters currently hold permits in the LSA (KP/KL 310 to KP/KL 325.7).

The Proposed Route from approximately KP/KL 310.1 to KL 325.7 crosses several Trapping Areas (TPA 2203, 2039 and 2202). Wildlife Management Unit 438 is located in Fur Management Zone 5. Badger, beaver, coyote, fisher, red and arctic fox, lynx, marten, mink, muskrat, red squirrel, weasel, wolf and wolverine are trapped during the fall and winter. Badger, beaver and muskrat can also be trapped into early spring.

Jasper National Park There are no range or forestry tenures in JNP. The Proposed Route will not cross agricultural or grazing lands in JNP

No traplines exist in JNP, and hunting is not allowed. There are no guide outfitting territories in the park.

Mount Robson Provincial Park There are no range or forestry tenures in MRPP. The Proposed Route will not cross agricultural or grazing lands in MRPP.

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The proposed route crosses Trapline 701T002 located in MRPP. The trapline is not currently being trapped. BC Parks is attempting to acquire the trapline.

Hunting is not allowed in the park, and there are no guide outfitting territories in MRPP.

British Columbia In BC, between KL 466.3 and KL 468, is in the Robson Valley Forest District. No cutting permits were identified in this segment of the Proposed Route.

The Project will pass through the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) from KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 467.0 and KP/KL 467.2 to KP/KL 468.0. The Proposed Route will also cross a grazing and hay tenure from KP/KL 467.7 to KP/KL 468.0.

The Proposed Route in BC includes a portion of an existing trapline from KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 468.0. Hunting can occur on Crown lands in BC, however, the proximity of the Proposed Route to the two CN Railway lines, Robson Ranch and MRPP reduce the desirability of the area for hunting.

The Proposed Route will cross a guide-outfitting territory in BC from KP/KL 466.3 to KP/KL 468.0.

5.2.13.5 Tourism and Visitor Use JNP, MRPP and the communities and features along Highway 16 provide tourism and recreation opportunities for domestic and international visitors. MRPP and JNP form two components of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Visitation to the parks occurs throughout the year, but is concentrated in the summer season from July through September.

Highway 16 is a tourism corridor that provides access to JNP, MRPP, adjacent communities, and other BC and Alberta destinations. It serves as the main access route for visitors to the region, however, also provides visitor experiences through scenic viewscapes and roadside pullouts. Visitors also travel through the RSA by year-round passenger rail service that passes through JNP and MRPP.

Alberta Hinton is located in the RSA. It has grown as a gateway community for JNP through an expanded accommodation and service base. In 2003, independent visitors to the Four Mountain Parks (Banff, Jasper, Kootenay and Yoho national parks) spent an estimated 123,860 visitor nights and group tour visitors spent 5,337 visitor nights in Hinton.

Tourism-related infrastructure and natural features are found along Highway 16 between Hinton and JNP. These include the Overlander Lodge at KP/KL 323.9 and Wildhorse-Kinky Lakes Recreation Area at KP/KL 317.5, outside the LSA.

Wildhorse-Kinky Lakes Lake Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) The Wildhorse-Kinky Lakes Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) is located in the RSA approximately 1.3 km northwest of the Proposed Route at KP/KL 317.5. The PRA is about 85 ha in size, and offers camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking and power boating during the summer, and ice fishing during the winter. Facilities at the PRA include a day-use area and a campground which is open from May 1 to October 31.

Overlander Mountain Lodge The access road to the Overlander Mountain Lodge from Highway 16 is located at KP/KL 323.9. The lodge is located approximately 350 m southeast of the Proposed Route and operates on a year-round basis. Area attractions include horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking.

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Jasper National Park Jasper National Park is part of the Canada Rocky Mountain Park World Heritage Site. The park is known for its scenic landscapes, wilderness values and wildlife, as well as its front and back-country hiking. A distinctive feature of the park is the presence of a developed townsite within the park boundaries.

Jasper National Park Visitation Jasper National Park is a year-round destination for visitors, with visitation concentrated in the summer season from July to September. The most popular summer activities include hiking, rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, interpretive tours, climbing, fishing and touring. Winter activities include downhill skiing, cross country skiing, ski touring, back-country skiing and snowshoeing. Table 5.57 provides a summary of the estimated temporal and spatial distribution of visitors to select sites. With the exception of Old Fort Point, all sites are reported to have the most use from July through September (Plate 5A.43).

TABLE 5.57

ESTIMATED NUMBER OF VISITS TO SELECT JASPER NATIONAL PARK LOCATIONS (2003)

Proximity to Number of Visitors JNP Visitor Nodes Proposed Route Jan-Mar Apr-Jun Jul-Sep Oct-Dec Total Miette-Pocahontas area less than 50 m 13,654 76,173 151,510 17,488 258,825 (KP/KL 333.0) Lakes Edith and Annette - Jasper 700 m 39,253 97,334 133,281 32,639 302,507 Park Lodge area (KP/KL 375.0) Old Fort Point (KP/KL 377.0) 800 m 4,720 24,410 13,189 4,084 46,403 Town of Jasper (KP/KL 380.0) 100 m 85,606 281,836 622,214 84,115 1,073,771 Stops Along Highway 16 less than 50 m 32,489 95,414 117,074 21,340 266,317

Since 1991, the number of yearly visitors to JNP has grown from 1.2 million to 1.5 million. In the Jasper townsite, 26% of the visitation occurs between April and June, and 58% between July and September. The remainder occurs between October and April.

Winter visitor numbers vary depending on snowfall levels, but are generally highest on weekends, when accommodation facilities often operate at 80 to 90% capacity.

Among travelers to JNP in 2003, approximately 30% were day visitors. Visitors spent an average of 2.33 nights in the park, with the longest average stays during the January to March (2.52 nights) and the shortest trips during the October to December period (2.13 nights). Most (96%) of these visitors entered the park for recreation and pleasure.

Trails A variety of day-use front-country trails are located in the LSA. These trails, identified in Table 5.58, receive heavy use by visitors and residents in both summer and winter.

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TABLE 5.58

FRONT-COUNTRY TRAILS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Location Trail Name Proximity to Proposed Route KP/KL 372.5 to 375.6 Cottonwood 200 m KP/KL 375 Pyramid Lake Loop 400 m KP/KL 372.5 to 377 Other trails close to Jasper 400 m KP/KL 372.5 to 375.6 Riley Lake Loop 900 m KP/KL 377.5 Old Fort Point Loop 800 m KP/KL 370.5 to 377.5 Jasper Park Lodge to Maligne Canyon 500 m KP/KL 374 Lake Annette Loop 750 m KP/KL 384 Caledonia Lake 400 m KP/KL 390.5 Christine lakes 100 m KL 322.5 Pocahontas Loop 0 m

A network of trails exists around Jasper townsite, west of the Athabasca River. Back-country trail use is reported to be much lower than the front-country trails. There are more than 100 back-country campsites in JNP, located along 20 main trails. There are two back-country trails and campsites and one access to a back-country trail and campsite in the LSA (Table 5.59). Use levels of these facilities are not available.

TABLE 5.59

BACK-COUNTRY TRAILS AND CAMPSITES IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Trails or Location Feature Name Campsites Notes KP/KL 343.4 Access to Hiker The Celestine Lake Road is used to access the trail that leads Celestine Lake to a campsite. The trail and campsite are outside of the LSA. trail and campsite The Celestine Lake Road is closed from October through May. KP/KL 351.4 Vine Creek trail Hiker The Proposed Route is adjacent to the trailhead. The campsite is located outside of the LSA. KL 405.4 Miette Lake trail Hiker/horse The Proposed Route crosses this trailhead on Decoigne Road. camps The trail is used by hikers and horseback riders. The campsite is located outside of the LSA.

Activities in Jasper National Park

Summer Activities Activities associated with trails are discussed in the Trails section above. The Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club in the RSA, just outside the Jasper townsite is generally open between May and October.

Three commercial operators provide guided fishing on Maligne Lake, outside of the LSA. Commercial fishing on other streams and rivers in JNP is limited.

Table 5.60 identifies the locations of recreational fishing in the LSA in JNP.

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TABLE 5.60

RECREATIONAL FISHING LOCATIONS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Location Feature Name Trails or Campsites KL 325.7 to KP/KL 364.0 Athabasca River: Zone 3 June 1 to September 5 and (Downstream of 12 Mile Bridge on November 1 to March 31 Highway 16 East to east park boundary, including all side channels, Pocahontas Ponds and other connected wetlands). KP/KL 364.0 to KP/KL 378.0 Athabasca River: Zone 2 (upstream of 12 April 1 to September 5 and Mile Bridge on Hwy 16 East to Athabasca November 1 to March 31 Falls). KP/KL 370.0 Maligne River April 1 to September 5 and November 1 to March 31 KP/KL 374.0 Annette Lake May 21 to September 5 KP/KL 376.0 Beauvert Lake May 21 to September 5 KL 379.0 to KL 381.0 Miette River April 1 to September 5 and November 1 to March 31

All other streams and rivers in the LSA are closed for fishing from September 7 to June 30. All other lakes in the LSA are closed from November 1 to June 30.

Some boating does occur in the LSA. The park does not maintain detailed human use information on the navigable waters in the park. Use of the Athabasca River at Disaster Point (KP/KL 339.0) is estimated at 11 to 100 users per month in the summer and none in the winter. The Athabasca River supports commercial rafting, but only upriver from the Jasper townsite. Use of the Snaring River is estimated at 1 to 10 users per month in the summer. No known use occurs in the winter. No data exist on recreational use of other navigable waters in JNP, but informal information from Parks Canada indicates that recreational use is minimal.

Winter Activities Winter activities are centred on downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, walking and ice skating.

The Marmot Basin Ski Resort is located in the RSA, about 19 km southwest of the Jasper townsite. It provides opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and snowshoeing. The opening dates are weather dependent, but the facility is generally open from December to April.

Cross-country skiing occurs in the LSA on the Old Fort Point - Athabasca River trail, the Lake Annette ski loop, Lac Beauvert, Trefoil Lake and Lake Annette from KP/KL 374.0 to KP/KL 377.0. Many of the hiking trails identified in Table 5.58, such as the Pocahontas Loop Trail, are used for walking, running, snowshoeing or skiing, depending on the season.

Some access roads are also used for winter recreation activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and walking. Popular access roads include Wynd Road, especially KL 379.0 to KP/KL 383.0, and various locations along the Celestine Lake Road. The Pipeline Trail along the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is located from KP/KL 383.0 to KP/KL 388.0, and provides cross-country skiing opportunities between Highway 16 and the CN Railway line. Other portions of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, including areas near the Snaring campground are popular cross-country skiing areas.

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Mount Robson Provincial Park MRPP forms part of the Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site and offers opportunities for a variety of front, mid and back-country recreation experiences. It is part of a continuous tourist travel corridor through Alberta and BC.

Wilderness is an important recreation feature of MRPP. Table 5.61 presents recreation features of MRPP and their relative importance.

TABLE 5.61

MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK RECREATION FEATURES AND THEIR RELATIVE IMPORTANCE

Significance Recreation Feature Study Area Note Nationally Mt. Robson, Berg Lake and Associated RSA --- Important glaciers The Ramparts RSA Pinnacled rock formations overlooking Amethyst Lakes Arctomys Cave RSA Deepest cave in the Rocky Mountains Wilderness LSA Connects to the Four Mountain National Parks system Mt. Terry Fox RSA Memorial and viewpoint Provincially Valley of a Thousand Falls RSA -- Important Fraser River Headwaters RSA --- Wildlife LSA Especially mountain goat, moose, elk and grizzly bear populations Yellowhead Pass (history) LSA --- Archaeological and historic artifacts of LSA --- transportation and settlement Alpine meadows of Moat/Tonquin Pass RSA --- area, Resplendent Pass, Fraser Pass, Miette Pass Peaks in or near Mount Robson Group, RSA Climbing interest including Resplendent Mountain, Mount Kain, Lynx Mountain, Rearguard Mountain, Whitehorn Mountain, Mount Longstaff Peaks near the Ramparts (Turret RSA Climbing interest Mountain, Bennington Peak, Mastodon Peak) Moose Lake marsh LSA Wetland and wildlife Regionally Moose Lake, Yellowhead Lake LSA --- Significant Overlander Falls LSA --- Important Rearguard Falls (outside park) RSA --- Kettle Ponds LSA --- Locally Witney and Portal lakes LSA Fishing Important Numerous cirque basins, small glaciers LSA --- Wildlife, local populations of furbearers, LSA --- predators, avian fauna.

Commercial facilities and services in MRPP are limited to the area near the Visitor Centre. A café and store are available at the Mount Robson Motor Village. The MRPP Visitor Information Centre and associated facilities, such as the gas station and restaurant, are closed from early November to early March.

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Mount Robson Provincial Park Visitation Tourism statistics for MRPP are not published, however, the BC Parks Area Supervisor estimates approximately 500,000 day use visitors to MRPP annually and approximately 20,000 overnight visitors annually.

The MRPP Visitor Information Centre and associated facilities, such as the gas station and restaurant, are closed from early November to early March. Approximately 43,000 visitors used the services of the Visitor Information Centre during the 2005 season.

Trails Front-country and back-country trails located in the LSA are presented in Table 5.62 and Table 5.63, respectively.

TABLE 5.62

FRONT-COUNTRY TRAILS IN THE MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK LOCAL STUDY AREA

Proximity to Proposed Location Trail Description Route KP/KL 405.0 Portal Lake Portal Lake is a small lake found near the eastern boundary of MRPP off the 800 m south Trail north side of Highway 16. This 2 km trail circles the small lake. KP/KL 415.0 Yellowhead This 2.5 km interpretive loop trail located in the Lucerne campground begins at 200 m north Lake Trail the information shelter, circling through the forest to the beach. KP/KL 415.0 Labrador Tea This trail is located north of Highway 16, at the Lucerne campground. Low 200 m north Trail levels of use. KP/KL 416.5 Kettle Lakes Two lakes located south of Highway 16 receive low levels of recreational use. 300 m south

KP/KL 465 Overlander The Overlander Trail begins 1.6 km east of the Visitor’s Centre. The falls are 200 m north Falls Trail located 500 m from the parking lot. The trail continues along the Fraser River to a bridge on Hargreaves Road, 5 km roundtrip. The trail connects with the Lookout Trail. KP/KL 466.5 Lookout Trail The 4 km round-trip trail starts at the eastern end of the visitor centre parking The Project may be lot. The trail takes visitors up a hill for views of the surrounding landscape. This visible from the trail trail joins up with the Overlander Falls Trail.

TABLE 5.63

BACK-COUNTRY TRAILS IN THE MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK LOCAL STUDY AREA

Location Trail Description Note KP/KL 411.5 to Mount Fitzwilliam The trail travels 7 km to a serviced campground at The Project is located south of KP/KL 412.8 Trail Rockingham Creek and 14 km to alpine lakes. The Highway 16 through this section. trailhead is across the highway from the Yellowhead This trail uses the Proposed Route Lake boat launch parking lot. for 1.3 km. KP/KL 413.2 Yellowhead A road about 1 km in length leads north to the trailhead The access road to this trailhead is Mountain Trail from Highway 16 at the east end of Witney Lake. proposed as an access road for the Project. KL 434.0 Moose River Route The route stretches from Highway 16, east of Moose The Proposed Route crosses the Lake, to JNP. From Highway 16, the route follows along access road to the Moose River the forested shoreline of Moose River moving into the trailhead. Low levels of use occur alpine near Moose Pass on the border of JNP on this trail.

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Summer Activities Activities associated with trails are discussed in the Trails section above.

Recreational fishing sites in the LSA are identified in Table 5.64.

TABLE 5.64

RECREATIONAL MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK FISHING AREAS IN THE LOCAL STUDY AREA

Proximity to Location Feature Proposed Route KP/KL 405 Portal Lake 800 m KP/KL 409.5 to KP/KL 415.7 Yellowhead Lake 50 m KP/KL 413.3 to KP/KL 413.9 Witney Lake 50 m KL 417.4 to KP/KL 437.0 Fraser River crossed KL 420.5 Ghita Creek 200 m KL 428.8 Grant Brook Creek crossed KL 433.3 Moose River crossed KP/KL 436.9 to KP/KL 448.7 Moose Lake 50 m

Other recreational activities in MRPP include boating, canoeing, kayaking, skiing (cross-country, back- country and heli-skiing) as well as snowshoeing.

For road-based travellers, the Mount Robson Viewpoint, Mount Fitzwilliam and Yellowhead Mountain pullouts provide views of the mountain ranges that are found north and south of the Fraser River.

Winter Activities The rugged terrain and high avalanche hazards limit opportunities for cross-country skiing, back-country skiing, heli-skiing and snowshoeing in MRPP. Private cabins along the west side of the park serve back- country skiers. However, no cross-country tracks are set and the skiing trails are the same as the hiking trails.

British Columbia The Mount Robson Ranch is located in BC from KP/KL 466.4 to KP/KL 467 in the LSA. The Proposed Route will pass within 150 m of the Robson Ranch, which operates as a resort during the summer season, May through early October.

5.2.13.6 Aesthetics The following subsection is based on the Viewshed Modelling Analysis conducted by TERA/Westland (2005e). Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to aesthetics are discussed in Section 6.2.13 of this EA report.

This analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential effects of the Project on the existing scenic viewsheds throughout the Project setting. There is no management plan within Alberta, JNP or MRPP that makes specific reference to the management of visual resources. However, the JNP Management Plan (2000) and the MRPP Master Plan (BC MELP 1992) refer to the important role that each park’s visual resources play in enhancing the quality of park experience for visitors. Furthermore, there are no established standard or recommended approaches for visual impact assessment in these three jurisdictions. In BC, on lands managed by the Ministry of Forests and Range for forest production and other values, there is an established procedure for assessing the effects of commercial foresting harvesting on visual quality. The methods used for this report were adapted from these from the Ministry of Forest’s procedure.

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Information was gathered at ten observer viewpoints (OVs) presented in Table 5.65. Seven were located in JNP and three in MRPP. A pre-construction viewshed analysis of foreground, middle and background views was conducted for each OV. The following visual quality objectives (VQO) were assigned to the viewpoint:

• Preservation - No visible activities (0% to 1% of viewscape denuded)

• Retention - Activities are not visually evident (1.1% to 5% of viewscape denuded)

• Partial Retention - Activities are visible, but remain subordinate (5.1% to 20% of viewscape denuded)

• Modification - Activities are visually dominant, but have characteristics that appear natural (20.1% to 33 % of viewscape denuded)

• Maximum Modification - Activities are dominant and out of scale, but appear natural in the background (more than 33 % of viewscape denuded)

Table 5.65 provides a summary of the Observer Viewpoints (OVs) analysis.

Alberta No observer viewpoints were selected in Alberta. The viewsheds in Alberta have been subjected to extensive modification through past forest harvesting, oil and gas activities, development of transportation corridors and agricultural and rural residential developments. The area cannot be considered pristine.

Jasper National Park The viewpoint on Highway 16 near Pocahontas Bungalows (OV1) (KL 331.4) is located in the Montane Ecoregion in a relatively flat valley bottom with low topographic relief (Plate 5A.44). The foreground and middle ground are dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbance, primarily Highway 16, and forests. This site is near the eastern edge of the main ranges of the Rocky Mountains. The lower portion of Bedson Ridge is visible to the northeast but does not dominate the viewscape. To the west, Roche a Bosche and Roche Ronde are visible in the near background, with Roche de Smet visible in the distant background. The pre-construction VQO is retention.

The observer viewpoint near Edna and Talbot lakes (OV2) (KP/KL 348.5) is located in the Montane Ecoregion in a flat valley bottom with low topographic relief (Plate 5A.45). The foreground is dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbance, primarily Highway 16, and the wide expanse of Jasper Lake. It is located where the De Smet, Jacques and Colin ranges intersect the Athabasca valley. Looking northeasterly from this location, Roche Miette and the upper portions of Syncline Ridge dominate the background viewscape with the forest slopes near Devona Flats also visible. To the east, the north slopes of Cinquefoil Mountain and Butterwort Creek dominate the middle and background viewscape. North and northwest, the viewscape is dominated by Mount Greenock, Gargoyle Mountain, Esplanade, and Chetamon Mountains with Jasper Lake dominating the fore and middle ground. The north end of the Palisade is visible to the south. Pre-construction VQO is preservation.

The Old Fort Point Lookout observer viewpoint (OV3)(KP/KL 377.5) is a heavily used trail located approximately 1.7 km east of Jasper townsite (Plate 5A.46). It has excellent views of the Athabasca River valley, Jasper townsite and surrounding area. The foreground viewshed is dominated by natural and anthropogenic features, primarily the Athabasca River and Miette River valleys, and the urbanized areas associated with the Jasper townsite and valley bottom transportation facilities (i.e., CN Railway line, Highway 16, Highway 93). This site is located where the Maligne, Trident, Victoria Cross, and Colin ranges intersect the Athabasca valley. Pre-construction VQO is retention.

The Jasper Tramway observer viewpoint (OV4) (KL 382.0) is located on the northeast ridge of the Whistler (Plate 5A.47). It is in the Alpine ecoregion and is located on an open, rocky ridge. The limited foreground is dominated by alpine landscapes and the existing anthropogenic disturbance associated with the Jasper Tramway. There are limited middle ground landscape views as the terrain drops off

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TABLE 5.65

SUMMARY OF OBSERVER VIEWPOINTS IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK AND MOUNT ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK

Pre-Construction Site Visual Total Area Percent Visual Observer Absorption Viewshed Size Viewshed Viewshed Quality Viewpoint Location Capability (ha) Disturbed (ha) Disturbed Objective Alberta None None N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Jasper National Park OV1 KL 331.4 Low 791.7 10.3 1.3 % Retention OV2 KP/KL 348.5 High 10,662.4 31.3 0.3 % Preservation OV3 KP/KL 377.5 High 12,525.8 352.3 2.8 % Retention OV4 KL 382.0 High 46,470.1 774.6 1.7 % Retention OV5 KL 390.3 Low 2,380.6 41.3 1.7 % Retention OV6 KP/KL 392.6 Moderate 587.3 2.2 0.4 % Preservation OV7 KL 396.4 High 3,584.8 9.4 0.3 % Preservation Mount Robson Provincial Park OV8 KL 407.4 Low 276.0 5.5 2.0 % Retention OV9 KL 422.5 Moderate 188.4 3.7 2.0 % Retention OV10 KL 424.8 Low 20.2 4.5 22.2 % Modification British Columbia None None N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 near Meadow Creek (OV5) (KL 390.0) is located in the Montane Ecoregion, in the Miette River valley (Plate 5A.48). It is located where the Meadow Creek valley intersects the relatively narrow and steep sided Miette River valley, has limited scenic vistas and is dominated by forested slopes in the middle and backgrounds. The foreground is dominated by anthropogenic disturbances; primarily Highway 16. Looking north, the middle ground viewshed is dominated by the steep lower valley walls on the north side of the Miette River, with no background scenery viewable. To the southeast, the ridges of The Whistlers, Indian Ridge and Muhigan Mountain dominate the background viewscape. To the east, the west slopes of Signal Mountain in the Maligne Range dominate the background viewscape. West of the site, the lower ridges of Roche Noire are visible in the middle ground viewscape. Pre-construction VQO is retention.

The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 near the Miette River wetlands (OV6)(KP/KL 392.6) is in the Montane Ecoregion in the Miette River valley (Plate 5A.49). The foreground is dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbance, primarily Highway 16, and the Miette River valley and its associated wetlands. The viewshed is constrained to the north, with the middle and background viewshed dominated by the south facing forested slopes of the Miette River valley. The summit of Emigrants Mountain to the north is visible in the background. Looking east the views are less constrained. Pre-construction VQO is preservation.

The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 near Clairvaux Creek (OV7) (KL 396.4) is in the Montane Ecoregion, in the Miette River valley (Plate 5A.50). The foreground is dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbance, primarily Highway 16. This site overlooks an extensive open wetland area associated with the Miette River. It has excellent scenic vistas dominated by open wetlands in the fore and middle ground and rugged peaks in background. Looking north, the middle ground viewshed is dominated by extensive wetlands and the lower forested slopes of Emigrant Mountain. To the west and

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2 northwest, the rugged peaks around the upper Miette River valley dominate the background viewshed while Signal Mountain is visible to the east. Pre-construction VQO is preservation.

Mount Robson Provincial Park The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 west of Yellowhead Pass (OV8) (KL 407.4) is in the SBS BGC zone in the Fraser River valley (Plate 5A.51). The foreground is dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbances associated with Highway 16. The middle and background viewsheds are dominated by the south facing forested slopes of the long, forested, west ridge of Bingley Peak. Waddington Peak is visible to the southeast. Preconstruction VQO is retention.

The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 at the Fraser River crossing (OV9) (KL 422.5) is located in the SBS BGC zone in the Fraser River valley (Plate 5A.52). The foreground is dominated by existing anthropogenic disturbance, primarily Highway 16, and the Fraser River valley. The middle and background viewsheds are dominated by the south facing forested slopes of the long, forested, west ridge of Bingley Peak. Waddington Peak is visible to the southeast. Pre-construction VQO is retention.

The observer viewpoint on Highway 16 (OV10) near KL 428.0 is located in the SBS BGC zone in the Fraser River valley. The foreground viewshed is dominated by Highway 16 and the CN Railway and their associated anthropogenic disturbances. The middle and background viewshed is dominated by views of Bingley Peak to the east. Pre-construction VQO is retention.

British Columbia West of MRPP, a short length of the Proposed Route is in the Robson Valley Timber Supply Area (TSA), in the Southern Interior Forest Region in BC. A visual quality inventory has been completed for the Robson Valley TSA, and there are currently established VQOs for the portion of the Robson Valley TSA that follows the Highway 16 corridor between Jackman and the western boundary of MRPP. The entire Highway 16 corridor between MRPP and Jackman has been identified as being visually sensitive, with VQOs of Partial Retention for valley bottom viewscapes and Retention for mid to upper valley slopes.

5.2.14 Social and Cultural Well-being Information related to social and cultural well-being is found throughout Section 5.0. Specifically, information on predominant cultural groups is found in Section 5.2.12 and Section 5.2.11. Demographic features of the local population and workforce are located in Section 5.2.13.1 and Section 5.2.17.

This subsection presents information on the social and cultural well-being related to an influx of workers during the construction phase of the Project. It is summarized from the Socio-Economic Report (TERA/Westland 2005d). Details of camp servicing and facilities are found in Section 2.5.3.2 in the Project Description of this EA report. Where warranted, this information is supplemented with materials listed in Section 5.5. Project-related effects are presented in Section 6.2.14 of this EA report.

Alberta No temporary construction camps are proposed to be located in Alberta. Some regulatory inspectors and company personnel will require lodging in the RSA, likely Hinton.

Jasper National Park One potential temporary camp site for construction workers to be located at the Old Jasper Dump (KP/KL 365.0) may be established. Some regulatory inspectors and company personnel will require lodging in Jasper.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Five potential temporary camp sites to be located in MRPP. Locations include the former Terasen Pipelines pump station site (KP/KL 406.45 to KP/KL 406.58), the Fitzwilliam gravel pit (KP/KL 410.72 to KP/KL 411.18), the Moose River pit (KL 433.5) and at the Red Pass and Dennison gravel pits (KP/KL 448.8 and KL 465.0).

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British Columbia No temporary construction camps are proposed to be located in BC. Some regulatory inspectors and company personnel will require lodging in the RSA, likely Valemount.

5.2.15 Human Health This subsection identifies the location of potential receptors of nuisances that could potentially be sources of adverse human health effects during the construction and operational phases as summarized from the Socio-Economic Report (TERA/Westland 2005d). It has been supplemented with materials listed in Section 5.5 as warranted. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to Human Health are discussed in Section 6.2.15 of this EA report.

Information related to air quality is presented in Section 5.2.4. Information related to water quality is presented in Section 5.2.3.2. Information related to noise is found in Section 5.2.5.

Alberta In Alberta, one residence and one lodge are found in the LSA. The locations are presented in Table 5.66.

Jasper National Park In JPN, a number of residences and recreation sites are found in the LSA. The locations are presented in Table 5.66.

Mount Robson Provincial Park In MRPP, there is one campground found in the LSA. The location is presented in Table 5.66.

British Columbia In MRPP, there is one lodge found in the LSA. The location is presented in Table 5.66.

TABLE 5.66

SUMMARY OF RECEPTORS THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY PROJECT CONSTRUCTION

Location Receptor Description Proximity to Proposed Route Alberta KP/KL 313.6 Residence 150 m south KP/KL 323.9 Overlander Mountain Lodge 360 m east Jasper National Park KL 325.9 Residence 30 m east KP/KL 332.6 Pocahontas Bungalows (OCA) 0 m KL 333.0 Pocahontas Warden Station 20 m south KP/KL 354.0 Snaring Warden Station 250 m west KP/KL 360.2 Snaring River Campground 700 m east KP/KL 375.5 Pine Bungalows (OCA) 250 m south KP/KL 375.5 to KP/KL 379.5 Jasper townsite 100 to 500 m west/north KL 377.9 Tekarra Lodge (OCA) 250 m south KL 378.2 Alpine Village (OCA) 950 m south KL 400.8 Decoigne Warden Station 100 m south Mount Robson Provincial Park KP/KL 415.0 Lucerne Campground 80 m north British Columbia KP/KL 466.4 to KP/KL 467.2 Robson Ranch 150 m north

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5.2.16 Infrastructure and Services This subsection presents a summary of the findings of the Socio-Economic Report (TERA/Westland 2005d) and will identify infrastructure and services in the RSA and LSA. Where warranted, this information was supplemented with materials listed in Section 5.5. Project-related effects are presented in Section 6.2.16 of this EA report.

5.2.16.1 Transportation and Transmission The main transportation and transmission corridors in the RSA include highways and access road, rail lines, electrical transmission lines and telecommunications lines. Highway 16 is the main highway through LSA. It is the major access route for visitors into the parks, as well as a major transportation route between Alberta and BC. The highway is a two-lane east-west facility that also includes passing lanes and pullouts. Highways 93 and 93A intersect Highway 16 south of Jasper in the LSA and provide north- south access through JNP and Banff National Park.

Parks Canada is considering an upgrade from two to four lanes of Highway 16 through JNP. In places where the Proposed Route parallels Highway 16, the Proposed Route has been offset from the road edge to accommodate this potential road-widening. At this time, a schedule has not been adopted for the widening of Highway 16. It is expected that the Project will be completed before the highway widening occurs.

Transportation Routes The Proposed Route crosses transport routes and transmission lines in the LSA. Table 5.67 provides a summary of the number of road crossings for the Proposed Route.

TABLE 5.67

TRANSPORTATION ROUTES CROSSED BY THE PROJECT

Project Segment Highway Paved Road Gravel Road Railway Alberta 1 0 3 0 Jasper National Park 6 5 23 3 Mount Robson Provincial Park 3 3 21 6 British Columbia 0 0 1 0

The Proposed Route is aligned next to transportation corridors at various locations. Table 5.68 provides a summary of the length of the Proposed Route that is adjacent to a road. Adjacency is defined as being located within 100 m of highways, paved roads, gravel roads or railway lines.

TABLE 5.68

TOTAL DISTANCE THE PROPOSED ROUTE IS ADJACENT TO TRANSPORTATION CORRIDORS

Highway Paved Road Gravel Road Railway Route Segment (km) (km) (km) (km) Alberta 0.60 0.98 0 0 Jasper National Park 10 2.26 19.29 13.5 Mount Robson 27.75 0.74 22.99 28.34 Provincial Park British Columbia 0 0 4.50 0

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Road Traffic Volumes Traffic volumes in JNP are highest from June to September, with July and August being the busiest months. Similar trends are expected in MRPP. In recent years, Parks Canada conducted traffic counts at several locations along the Highway 16 in JNP. Figure 5.5 summarizes monthly traffic data from 2001 to 2003 recorded at the JNP east and west gates, and a third location approximately 14 km east of Jasper townsite. Although no traffic data were available for Highway 93, this route is popular for tourists travelling to and from Lake Louise during the summer months and is the shortest route for travelers to or from Calgary.

250,000

200,000

East Gate 2003 150,000 East Gate 2002 East Gate 2001 14.0 km East of Jasper 2003 14.0 km East of Jasper 2002 14.0 km East of Jasper 2001

Traffic Count Traffic West Gate 2003 100,000 West Gate 2002 West Gate 2001

50,000

0 Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Month

Figure 5.5 Jasper National Park Monthly Traffic Counts on Highway 16 (2001 to 2003)

Traffic Patterns Traffic movement patterns through JNP and MRPP change throughout the course of the day. In January, 2004, approximately 53% of the westbound traffic at the east gate of JNP was concentrated between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., while in July, 64% of total traffic in the same direction was recorded between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Peak travel periods were between noon and 2 p.m., except for January 2004 when the peak travel period was 5 p.m.

Information was not available for turning movements onto major secondary roads from Highway 16, such as Snaring Road, Pocahontas Road, and Highways 93 and 93a.

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Access Roads The clearing and construction phases of the Project will involve the use of construction access routes. The types of access routes that may be used include: public highways; parks roads, such as Snaring Road and Palisades; park fire roads, such as Celestine Lake Road; private access roads, such as trails and roads belonging to Terasen and the CN Railway; logging roads; and de-classified routes, such as the original Highway 16 route or the old CNA Railway bed. These access routes will be used for the movement of construction vehicles and equipment, including pickups and semi-trailers, during construction activities.

Celestine Lake Road The Celestine Lake Road is a single-lane fire road open to the public from June through September. The road is used by visitors for roaded recreational access during the summer and early fall, and by non- motorized users through the winter. During the period the road is open to the public, eastbound and westbound traffic is allowed on the road during alternating hours to reduce conflicts at narrow sections (particularly Windy Point). No formal traffic count information is available for the Celestine Lake Road. According to Parks Canada, tourist use along the Celestine Lake Road has diminished over the past few years. The road will be used as a major access route during construction.

The road is located from KP/KL 341.0 to KP/KL 358.0, and the Proposed Route is located adjacent to this road through much of this area. The Proposed Route crosses the Celestine Lake Road at a number of locations.

Snaring Road The Snaring Road is located from KP/KL 356.6 to KP/KL 365.6. It provides access to the Snaring River Campground, which operates from May through September. The road is used for recreation during the winter.

Palisades Road The Palisades Road provides access to the Palisades Centre from Snaring Road and Highway 16. The Proposed Route crosses the Palisades Road at KP/KL 366.0.

Rail Rail companies operating in JNP and MRPP include the CN Railway, Via Rail and Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tours. The CN Railway maintains rail lines throughout the RSA. CN Railway freight train schedules are not available to the public for safety reasons. Via Rail runs three eastbound and three westbound trains through Jasper weekly. Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tours mainly operate between April and October with a few winter tours scheduled in December. Rocky Mountaineer trains depart from Jasper three times per week. There are no passenger train stops in MRPP.

Air The Jasper-Hinton Airport is the closest airport to JNP and MRPP. It is located approximately 14 km east of the JNP east gate and 64 km east of the Jasper townsite (approximately 2.8 km west of KP/KL 313.0). The nearest international airport is the Edmonton International Airport. Commercial airports are also available in Prince George and Kamloops, BC. Helicopters serve the area from Hinton, the Jasper-Hinton Airport, and from Valemount.

Parks Canada is in the process of completing a comprehensive environmental impact assessment to obtain consent to decommission the Jasper airstrip. The Jasper airstrip is an unlicensed grass aircraft facility located in the Athabasca River valley, approximately 10 km northeast of Jasper townsite. The airstrip was closed in 1997.

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Powerlines The Proposed Route crosses ATCO Power overhead transmission lines at 17 locations, including one high voltage line providing service to Pocahontas Bungalows at KL 332.8 and several moderate voltage transmission lines, such as the powerlines serving CN Railway’s facilities (Table 5.69). There are 5 crossings of ATCO Power buried power cables in JNP. ATCO electric generates and distributes power in the Jasper area.

Buried Cables The Telus Lightguide is a fibre-optic cable system that was installed by Telus between 1988 and 1990. The buried fibre-optic cable is part of the Lightguide Transmission System (LTS) between the Alberta border near JNP and Vancouver. The cable includes an external casing pipe of 250 mm. The Lightguide cable is located in the Trans Mountain Pipeline easement and the CN Railway line through portions of the LSA.

The 360 network is a cable that runs adjacent to the CN Railway tracks and is used by CN Railway for communications.

The Proposed Route will be near the Lightguide fibre-optic cable and the 360 network at various locations and will cross them several times (Table 5.69).

TABLE 5.69

OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION LINE AND FIBRE-OPTIC CABLE CROSSINGS BY THE PROJECT

ATCO Electric Overhead 360 Network & Telus Light Project Segment Transmission Lines Guide Fibre-Optic Cables Alberta 2 3 Jasper National Park 10 15 Mount Robson Provincial Park 4 5 British Columbia 1 0

Oil and Gas Pipelines The Proposed Route is adjacent to the existing Trans Mountain pipeline for much of its length and crosses it in several locations. The Proposed Route also crosses a pipeline operated by ATCO Pipelines and will be adjacent to their facilities including pipelines, regulator stations and a blind end. The ATCO pipeline extends from KP/KL 310.1 to KP/KL 378.0. Within Alberta, the Proposed Route crosses the ATCO pipeline at four locations and is adjacent (i.e. within 100 m) to it for 11.76 km. Within JNP, the Proposed Route crosses the ATCO pipeline at four locations and is adjacent to it for 5.6 km.

5.2.16.2 Emergency and Health Care Services

Alberta The Disaster Services Department is responsible for coordinating responses of services required to manage any disaster and provides logistical support for the fire, ambulance and police. Hinton Disaster Services is responsible for emergency response within the town. Outside the town's jurisdiction, the responsibility falls to the Yellowhead County Disaster Services. In Hinton there is a local detachment of the RCMP that is responsible for patrolling all public access roads within 70 km north of Hinton, west to the JNP east gates (KL 325.7). Ambulance services in the Hinton area are provided by Hinton Emergency Medical Service (EMS) with patients being transported to the Hinton Health Care Centre. These services cover the area from Hinton, west to the JNP east gates. STARS air ambulance also responds within Yellowhead County. STARS is based in Edmonton and the flight requires a refuelling delay in Edson, increasing response time to the JNP area. The Yellowhead County Fire Department has stations located

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Jasper National Park Emergency response services available in JNP include fire, police, ambulance and the JNP Warden Service. The level of these services depends on the time of year, due to the influx of tourists during the summer months. There is a permanent Fire Department stationed in Jasper townsite, which provides fire suppression, motor vehicle collision response, dangerous goods response, urban interfacing, facility protection, special rescue and fire inspection and investigation. The response area includes all of JNP, and 75 km west along Highway 16 into BC. The Ambulance service is based in Jasper and transports patients to Seaton General Hospital, located in the Jasper townsite.

Mount Robson Provincial Park The Valemont RCMP detachment responds to emergency calls in Valemount and surrounding areas, including Tete Jaune Cache, Blue River and MRPP. If required, the RCMP enlists the support of the BC Provincial Emergency Program (PEP) to respond to an emergency. For emergencies in MRPP, services are dispatched from Valemount and Jasper townsite. BC Parks, in cooperation with the RCMP and JNP, are responsible for search and rescue operations, as well as helicopter evacuations.

Seaton General Hospital in Jasper townsite is the closest medical emergency services facility to the MRPP segment of the Proposed Route. Although Valemount does not have a hospital, the Valemount Health Centre provides emergency and non-emergency medical care.

British Columbia A description of emergency and health care services for the BC segment of the Proposed Route is provided above in the description for MRPP.

5.2.16.3 Waste Management

Alberta The West Yellowhead Regional Landfill located near Hinton will accept construction waste and some hazardous waste, including contaminated soil. Hazardous waste that does not meet the criteria of the West Yellowhead Regional Landfill would be transferred to a Class 1 Landfill located near Niton. The sewage treatment plant in Hinton will not accept wastewater generated outside the town. There are a number of local services that manage construction wastewater.

Jasper National Park There is no facility in JNP that accepts construction and domestic waste. Parks Canada owns and operates a waste transfer station, located about 80 m east of KP/KL 370.0, that accepts construction waste and sends it to appropriate facilities in Hinton and Edson. The Jasper townsite accepts wastewater at its sewage treatment plant.

Mount Robson Provincial Park The MRPP Visitor’s Information Centre and the Robson Meadows campground use high efficiency septic systems to treat liquid waste generated. No other services are available.

British Columbia There are no facilities in Valemount that would accommodate construction waste. The closest facility is located in LeGrande, about 20 km west of McBride on Highway 16. The LeGrande Landfill will not accept hazardous waste and will only accept waste generated within the district (Regional District of Fraser Fort

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George). The Clearwater Landfill, located approximately 200 km from the western end of the Proposed Route in BC (KP/KL 468.0) accepts construction waste and hazardous waste generated in its district (Regional District of Thompson-Nicola). The submission of an application and approval by the Regional Board would be required for the acceptance of waste generated outside a given district. The Valemount wastewater treatment facility does not accept waste generated outside of the village. There are a number of local services that manage construction wastewater.

5.2.16.4 Commercial Accommodation and Campsites

Alberta Hinton caters to large numbers of tourists. However, there has been a recent increase in the number of oil and gas workers in the area. As a result, accommodations in Hinton are in high demand throughout the year.

Hinton has more than 775 hotel and motel rooms at 19 facilities, and about 26 bed and breakfast rooms at seven locations. Rates range from approximately $65 to $139. There are a total of 25 campgrounds, plus four group campgrounds, near Hinton. There are almost 900 individual campground sites, including 275 sites with hook-ups, showers and toilets. Rates range from $15 to $25.

Jasper National Park Most of the roofed accommodations in JNP are located in Jasper townsite. There are 24 hotel and motel accommodation properties that supply a total of 2,285 rooms, and numerous private home and bed and breakfast accommodations. Tourist and tour groups create approximately 87% of the demand for rooms. The average room rates are approximately $130. Parks Canada reports 12 OCAs, which are facilities operated outside Jasper townsite that offer commercial accommodation. Four OCAs are located in the LSA: Pocahontas Bungalows (KL 332.6), Pine Bungalows (250 m south of KP/KL 375.5), Tekarra Lodge (south of KL 377.9), and the Alpine Village (KL 378.2). Most of these facilities are open from May to September or October.

Residential properties are strictly controlled in JNP. It is not possible to rent vacant houses in JNP by the night or by the week.

Seasonal accommodation is available at campground sites throughout JNP. Opening and closing dates for campgrounds vary, ranging from early May to October. Demand for campsites is heaviest from June to September. There are approximately 1,772 camp sites available during the summer season. Fully serviced sites (i.e., power, water, and sewer hook-ups) are limited to 77 sites at Whistlers campground. An additional 140 camp sites with electrical hook-ups are available at Whistlers and Wapiti campgrounds. During July and August, regular campgrounds are full, requiring the opening of Snaring Overflow Campground, located approximately 13 km east of Jasper along Celestine Lake Road. The Snaring Overflow Campground has the capacity for about 500 camp sites and is typically used by tourists about 40 nights per year during the summer. Campground fees range from $13 to $30. A total of 225 camp sites are available in JNP during the winter.

Mount Robson Provincial Park No roofed accommodation is available in MRPP. Three serviced camping areas are located in MRPP, with a total of 180 vehicle-accessible campsites. The Robson Meadows Campground (125 camp sites) and Robson River Campground (19 camp sites) are both located near the park’s west boundary (KP/KL 466.3). The Lucerne Campground (36 camp sites) is located approximately 10 km west of the Alberta border (KP/KL 415.0). Electrical hook-ups are not available. A dumping station is available near the Robson Meadows Campground entrance. Campground fees range from $14 to $17 per night, with additional fees for use of the dumping station. Campground opening dates vary from late April to mid- May, and closing dates range from late September to early October. The Robson Meadows Campground provides 32 campsites that can be reserved between May 13 and September 30. The maximum length of stay in any BC provincial park is 14 days per park, per calendar year. Some parks may limit maximum length of stay to seven days. Limits are posted in the park.

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British Columbia Numerous hotels, motels, lodges, inns, cabins, and bed and breakfasts are available in Tete Jaune Cache, Valemount, and Blue River. More than 433 hotel and motel rooms and 66 cabins are reported in 22 properties, providing accommodations in and near Valemount. Tete Jaune Cache has one roofed accommodation with 15 rooms. The busiest time of year is from mid-June to the end of September, with room rates ranging from $55 to $120 at the motels, upwards to $295 at the Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing Resort. There are 17 bed and breakfast accommodations and two guesthouses in and near Valemount, with more than 57 rooms available. There are no private homes or bed and breakfast accommodations reported for the areas of Tete Jaune Cache and Blue River.

One private campground is located near MRPP at the Robson Shadows Campground, located 5 km west of the park on Highway 16. The Robson Shadows Campground offers cabins, campsites, showers, a store, a coffee shop, and restaurant facilities. Additional campgrounds are available near the communities of Tete Jaune Cache, Valemount, and Blue River. There are seven campgrounds in and near Valemount, with 309 campsites. There are campground and RV sites with hook-ups at the Tete Jaune Lodge. Amenities include showers and licensed dining.

5.2.16.5 Recreational Services

Alberta Recreational services and facilities available near Hinton include a large number of parks and recreation areas. In addition, Hinton has skating rinks, a swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, racquetball and squash courts, peoples centre, library, and a skateboard park. Other recreation facilities available include a curling rink, tennis courts, parks, golf and a Nordic Centre.

Jasper National Park The Jasper Activity Centre, located in the Jasper townsite, houses various indoor recreation facilities, a multi-purpose hall and an arena. Indoor recreational opportunities include the fitness centre, squash- racquetball courts, a climbing wall, a curling rink and an arena. The Aquatic Centre includes a pool, wading pool, water slide, hot tub and a steam room. Programs and services provided include sports camps for basketball, swimming, wrestling, dance, hockey and volleyball. Outdoor recreation facilities including a skate park, tennis courts, and ball diamonds and sports fields. Various outdoor equipment rental, tour and guiding businesses and private recreation facilities operate in Jasper, including golf and skiing.

Mount Robson Provincial Park Recreational facilities in MRPP are mostly limited to camping, hiking and wildlife viewing. Guided river rafting, canoeing and hiking are available through a commercial enterprise in the park.

British Columbia Recreation facilities in Valemount include baseball diamonds, an arena, curling rink, tennis courts, a community hall and several children's playground areas

5.2.17 Employment and Economy This subsection describes local and regional economic and employment and is summarized from the Socio-Economic Report (TERA/Westland 2005d) and supplemented with materials listed Section 5.5 as necessary. Potential project-related impacts and mitigation pertaining to Employment and Economy are discussed in Section 6.2.17 of this EA report.

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2

5.2.17.1 Existing Local and Regional Employment

Alberta The proportion of Hinton’s labour force that is skilled is lower than in Alberta as a whole. The percentage of individuals between the ages of 20 and 64 years of age with a trade, post-secondary certificate or diploma or university degree during the 1996 census was 44% compared to 53% in Alberta. Most employed individuals (64%) in Hinton work in the service industry, while 20% work in the construction and manufacturing industries, and 16% are employed in resource based primary industries. The employment and unemployment rates for Hinton were reported by Statistics Canada at 70% and 8% respectively, compared to 69.3% and 5.2% for Alberta as a whole. The median total annual income of individuals over age 15 in Hinton was reported to be $23,148 and the average household income was reported to be $65,269.

The top three industries in Hinton are manufacturing and construction, wholesale and retail trade, and other services.

Jasper National Park The reported proportion of skilled labour in Jasper’s workforce is slightly lower than in Alberta as a whole. The percentage of individuals between the ages of 20 and 64 years of age with a trade, post-secondary certificate or diploma, or university degree in Jasper during the 1996 census was 50%, compared to 53% in Alberta. A high proportion (approximately 95%) of employed individuals in Jasper work in the service industry, while 4% are employed in the construction or manufacturing industries and 1% in resource- based primary industries. The employment rate in 2001 for the Municipality of Jasper was 81.2% and the unemployment rate was documented at 4.2%. The July 2005 unemployment rate in the Banff-Jasper- Rocky Mountain House Region is reported to be 1.8%, which is less than the overall rate for Alberta (approximately 3.1%). The average household income in 2001 in Jasper was reported to be $62,700.

The top three industries in Jasper are wholesale and retail trade, business services and other services.

Mount Robson Provincial Park No communities are found inside MRPP and therefore, there are no employment and economy statistics to report.

British Columbia In Valemount, the percentage of individuals between 20 and 64 years of age with a trade, post-secondary certificate or diploma, or university degree during the 1996 census was reported to be 30%, compared to 54% in BC as a whole. Approximately 68% of Valemount’s labour force is employed in various service industries (including wholesale, retail, business services and other services), while approximately 24% work in construction, manufacturing or resource-based industries. The portion of Valemount’s work force employed in the education or health industries is approximately 8%. The median total annual income of individuals over age 15 in Valemount was reported to be about $16,000 in 1996, and the average family income was reported to be about $45,780 in 1996.

The top three industries in Valemount are wholesale and retail trades, business services and other services.

5.2.17.2 Local Employment Development Plans There are no employment development plans for Yellowhead County, including Edson and Hinton, Jasper or Valemount.

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.2

5.2.17.3 First Nations Employment Aboriginal groups involved in the review of the Project have expressed an interest in gaining employment associated with the project. In the spirit of building positive relationships with the Aboriginal groups whose traditional territories are potentially affected by the Project and associated pump stations, Terasen Pipelines has already entered into agreements regarding involvement in project planning and assessment. The following services have been provided to Terasen Pipelines by Aboriginal groups: elders’ involvement in site inspections and identification of areas of interest, translators, geographic information systems (GIS) technicians, professional researchers and writers, technical support staff for field programs (archaeology and biology) and associated administration. Agreements were reached and implemented with the Simpcw First Nation, Aseniwuche Winewak Nation and Nakcowinewak Nation of Canada for varying kinds and levels of involvement in the Project. The TLRU study was prepared with substantial involvement of Aboriginal groups. The involved Aboriginal groups have articulated their interest in gaining economic benefits for their communities through involvement in major projects. Terasen Pipelines supports aboriginal economic development initiatives and will move toward achieving these goals. Terasen Pipelines will continue to proactively seek and offer local service providers, including Aboriginal providers, the opportunity to serve various support functions in connection with the Project. Terasen Pipelines has committed to employ an experienced procurement coordinator to identify local service opportunities and to assist local services, especially Aboriginal groups, to participate in meeting the goods and services requirements for the Project. Construction of the Project is intended to start with clearing and right-of-way preparation in the third quarter of 2007 and continue through to the end of 2008. Post construction monitoring and restoration are expected to continue for an additional two years. Local benefits will be an integral part of the procurement program, and many local service firms become involved in pipeline construction projects. Terasen is committed to a procurement program that actively promotes local opportunity and targeting, in part, Aboriginal businesses. Some examples are:

• Consumables such as: fuel and mechanical repairs, equipment rentals, fencing, survey stakes, skids, concrete, select padding, clean fill, restoration supplies • Services such as: office space and yards, office, clerical and support staff, accommodation and meals, camp catering, medical, ambulance or safety services, clearing and brush disposal, environmental field survey support, survey support • Contract Packages such as: clearing, security, environmental monitoring, concrete weights, post- construction restoration

5.2.17.4 Anticipated Levels of Local and Regional Economic Participation Jasper is the only community in the Project’s LSA. Due to the small population of Jasper and the available skills relevant to pipeline construction, involvement from Jasper residents is expected to be limited. In addition, residents are required to be employed in the park to live in Jasper. Although Terasen Pipelines is expected to extend the opportunity for employment on the Project to residents in the LSA, the proportion of local people directly employed by the Project is expected to be low. In the Project RSA, the communities of Hinton and Valemount are anticipated to make a relatively small contribution to the construction work force due their small populations. Several general contracting and excavation companies are based in Hinton, and they are expected to be involved in the Project construction phase. Valemount has few such excavation or general contracting firms. Although the number of workers involved in the Project from the RSA is expected to be higher than that from the LSA, most of the work force is likely to come from outside the RSA (e.g., larger city centres such as Edmonton or Prince George), particularly workers with specialized skills and equipment (e.g., as required for horizontal directional drilling). Terasen Pipelines is also continuing to work with Aboriginal groups with interests in the RSA to provide opportunity for aboriginal employment in the Project.

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Terasen Pipelines (Trans Mountain) Inc. Environmental Assessment TMX - Anchor Loop Project Section 5.3

5.3 Permanent Facilities The Project includes the installation of new pump stations at two locations along the Trans Mountain system. One is located in Alberta at Wolf (KP 188.0) (Figure 5.6), and one in BC at Chappel (KP 555.5) (Figure 5.7). A summary of biophysical and Socio-Economic Elements is presented in Table 5.70.

November 2005 Page 5-179 3739

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560000 561000 562000 563000 564000 565000 3739 November 2005

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