I I I I I I I I SANDHILLS I LOCAL I INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLAN

I Approved by the Minister of Environmental Protection I on April 28, 1993 I I I I

I 1993 I I Pub. No.: 1/464 ISBN: 0-86499-916-X Date: 1993

Copies of this plan may be obtained from:

Information Centre Information Centre Environmental Protection Alberta Environmental Protection Main Floor, Bramalea Building Main Floor, Bantrel Building 9920-108 Street 703- 6th Avenue SW Edmonton, Alberta, , Alberta, Canada TSK 2M4 r2P

Telephone: (403) 427-3590 Telephone: (403) 297-6324

U I I ERRATA In December 1992, the Alberta Government was reorganized. For agencies involved in the development of this plan, changes in departmental structure are shown below. (This list does not include agencies that retain the same name).

Previous New I Forestry, Lands and Wildlife Environmental Protection - Alberta Forest Service - Land and Forest Services - Fish and Wildlife Division - Fish and Wildlife Services I - Resource Planning Branch - Resource Planning Branch Forestry, Lands and Wildlife Agriculture, Food and Rural Development I - Public Lands Division - Public Land Management Branch Environmental Protection - Land and Forest Services I Tourism, Parks and Recreation Economic Development and Tourism - Small Business and Tourism I Development Environmental Protection - Parks Services I Agriculture Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Culture and Multiculturalism Community Development I Environment Environmental Protection - Water Resources Services Economic Planning Cabinet Committee Standing Policy Committee on Natural I Resources and Sustainable Development I I I I I I I 111 I I I PREFACE This planning document was prepared by government agencies and public consultants in recognition of the need for improved management of Albertas lands and resources. It applies only to public land within the Athabasca I River Sandbills planning area, not to private or federal lands. The plan presents the Government of Albertas resource management policy for public land and resources within the area. It is intended to be a guide for resource managers, industry and the public with responsibilities or I interests in the area, rather than a regulatory mechanism. Resource potentials and opportunities for development are identified with a view to assisting in the economic progress of Alberta. The plan is sufficiently flexible so that all future proposals for land use and development may be considered. No legitimate proposals will be I categorically rejected. Energy resource decisions are subject to the application of regulatory approval processes under the jurisdiction of the Minister of Energy. This plan may influence regulatory decisions, but will not result in the categorical approval or rejection of energy proposals. I The provincial government is committed to serving Albertans. Should a proposal not be in keeping with the provisions of the plan, staff will work with the proponent to explore alternative means for accommodating the proposal in a more appropriate location, either in this planning area or on other public lands. The rejection of I any proposal will be done only in writing by the Minister of Environmental Protection or his designate. A detailed outline for implementation will be provided for this local plan in order to identify the necessary implementation actions and roles. This implementation will also provide for the periodic review of the plan so I that it may accommodate changing needs and situations. Wherever possible, the private sector will be provided with the opportunity to be actively involved in the operational delivery of the plan. I Implementation is subject to the normal budgetary approval process. In establishing overall priorities, opportunities in other planning areas and areas currently outside the planning process will be considered. I While the plan identifies resource potentials and opportunities, the realization of these may require the dedication of major amounts of public funds. The plan will be used on the understanding that any actions required for implementation will be undertaken only as budgetary approvals are given in the normal way. The I private sector will be given the first opportunity to provide any development required. This plan has no legal status and is subject to revisions or review at the discretion of the Minister of I Environmental Protection. I I I I I 1 V I I I TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... I 1.1 Background 1 12 Purpose of the Plan ...... I 13 The Planning Area ...... 1 I 1.4 Planning Process and Participants ...... 4 2.0 POLICY AND PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 5 I 2.1 Legislation and Associated Directives ...... 5 2.2 Integrated Resource Management and Planning ...... 5 23 Plan Administration and Zoning ...... 6 2.4 A Coal Development Policy for Alberta ...... 6 I 2.5 White Area/Green Area ...... 6 2.6 Plans Under the Planning Act ...... 6 I 2.7 Fish and Wildlife Policy for Alberta ...... 7 3.0 DATA COLLECIION AND ANALYSIS ...... 7 4.0 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY ...... 7 I 4.1 Primary Plan Intent ...... 7 4.2 Access and Infrastructure ...... 8 43 Agricultural Resources ...... 12 I 4.4 Ecological Resources ...... 13 4.5 Fisheries Resources ...... 16 4.6 Historical Resources ...... 17 4.7 Mineral Resources ...... 19 I 4.8 Recreational and Tourism Resources ...... 20 4.9 Surface Materials ...... 22 4.10 Timber Resources ...... 22 I 4.11 Water Resources ...... 24 4.12 Watershed Management ...... 25 I 4.13 Wildlife Resources ...... 26 5.0 GREEN AREA/WHITE AREA BOUNDARY CHANGE ...... 28 6.0 PLAN MANAGEMENT ...... 28 I 6.1 General Administration ...... 28 6.2 Amendment Procedures ...... 30 I REFERENCES ...... 31 I GLOSSARY ...... 32 I 1 I VII I

LIST OF FIGURES Page Figure 1. Regional Location ...... 2 2. Athabasca River Sandbills Planning Area ...... 3 3. Athabasca River Sandhills Zoning ...... 11 4. Areas With Significant Ecological Resources ...... 14 5. Proposed Reservations ...... is 6. Proposed Green Area Boundary ...... 29

LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Intents of the Athabasca River Sandhills Zones ...... 9 2. Compatible Activities by Land Use Zone ...... 10

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1.0 INTRODUCTION uses on private land and other areas adjacent to the I planning area have been considered. U Background The plan provides a framework for developing and I assessing future actions by provincial government A land use plan for the Fort area was agencies and the private sector. It provides started in March 1978, but was postponed government with direction and supporting I indefinitely in 1980 because of other planning information for the following: (a) developing and priorities. The plan was initiated to resolve a implementing provincial government programs; (b) number of land use issues, including allocation of review and granting of dispositions, and approvals land along the agriculture/forestry interface, for private sector development and use of public I problems with recreational use of off-highway resources; and (c) allocating manpower and funds vehicles (OHVs) and protection of sensitive sand within existing budgets. dunes. For several years, local interests, such as the 1 County of Barrhead and the Barrhead Agricultural The plan provides the private sector with: (a) clear Development Committee, have lobbied for statements of provincial government intentions for development of a recreational park in the area. resource management in the planning area; and (b) opportunities for resource development that are I In November 1987, the Honourable Ken Kowalski, compatible with provincial government policy and MI-A for Barrhead, asked the Department of likely conditions under which such development Forestry, Lands and Wildlife to conduct a planning could occur. I and public involvement program to address resource management issues in the area. Recreational use of The plan provides resource management direction off-highway vehicles and protection of sand dunes by; (a) integrating resource management objectives; 1 were the major issues to be addressed. The (b) providing guidelines for achieving stated Honourable LeRoy Fjordbotten, Minister of resource management objectives; and (c) resolving Forestry, Lands and Wildlife, subsequently directed resource management issues. that a local integrated resource plan be prepared for I the area. The Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) was initiated in 13 The PlpnninArep March 1988. I The Athabasca River Sandhills planning area covers approximately 416 km2 (161 sq. mi.) of land along 1.2 Purpose of the Plan the Athabasca River near the of in (Figures 1 and 2). I The purpose of the Athabasca River Sandhills Local The planning area north of the Athabasca River is Integrated Resource Plan is to provide direction for in Improvement District No. 15 (ID 15), while the managing and using public land and resources in the land south of the river is in the county of Barrhead. I planning area to provide a variety of benefits for The Big Bend subregional IRP is located to the Albertans. A resource is defined as anything immediate northeast. The hamlet of Fort perceived by society as having value, including such Assiniboine is adjacent to the planning area along I traditional resources as land, timber and minerals as Highway 33, which is also known as the Grizzly well as less tangible resources without an obvious Trail. Holmes Crossing and the Klondike (Vega) market value, such as unique ecosystems and Ferry crossing are significant landmarks along the recreational opportunities. Generally, the plan Athabasca River. I maximizes benefits by specifying where, when and how resources will be managed and used. The major Iandforms in the planning area are deeply cut river and creek channels, organic areas I The Athabasca River Sandhills plan deals with and eolian plains (i.e., sand dune areas). public land and resources only; it does not address Vegetation in the river valleys i5 a mixture of aspen, or apply to private land or public resources under white spruce, pine, shrubs and grasses. Mosses and I private land. However, the effects of various land sedges grow in the organic or boggy areas, and I I I I I I I I I I I I 1 1 I I I I I I Figure 1. Regional Location I

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Figure 2. Athabasca River Sandhills Planning Area I stabilized sand dunes are covered with pine, aspen, the plan. The resource management agencies black spruce and native grasses. The dunes are collected and analyzed data in the categories of interspersed with muskegs and open bogs. The present use, demand and potential and capability to I Athabasca and the Freeman rivers are the major accommodate use for a wide variety of resources. watercourses in the planning area. Tributaries of This information was used to develop resource these rivers include Goose, Horse, Clearwater, management objectives and guidelines, and in I Timeu and Doris creeks. resolution of identified conflicts. The next step was development of the draft plan. The planning area is heavily used for recreation I including snowmobiling, off-highway vehicle (OHV) Public input was part of the draft plan preparation. activity, downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking, Public input from reviews of the draft plan was camping, fishing and hunting. Canoeing and considered in preparing the Athabasca River motorboating are popular on the Athabasca River. Sandhifls plan. Three public meetings and two open I Other resource uses are timber harvesting, domestic houses were held in Barrhead and Fort Assiniboine grazing, trapping, and exploration and development in September 1991. A total of 145 submissions were of petroleum and natural gas. Most of the planning received. A follow-up roundtable meeting was held I area is provincial public land (i.e., 392 km2 = 151 in November 1992 to review changes made to the sq. ml.). Private land within the planning area (i.e., draft plan based on the publics comments. Overall, 25 km2 = 10 sq. ml.) has been developed mainly for the public interest and input for this plan have been agriculture. good. I

The draft plan was endorsed by a number of 1.4 Planning Process and Participants interdepartmental provincial government I committees before being approved by the Minister Process of Environmental Protection. I The planning process for development of local Participants integrated resource plans consists of a series interrelated steps. The steps are sequential with the The integrated resource planning process exception of the data gathering and analysis step, encourages the participation of a wide range of I which can occur throughout the process. The people to ensure comprehensive consideration of process is also flexible as the sequence of events resource values and to increase commitment to the may be interrupted to return to a previous step, if final plan. Representatives of provincial I required. government agencies, regional and municipal authorities, interest groups and the general public As a first step in preparing this integrated resource were involved. plan, an interdepartmental planning team was I formed. The team prepared draft terms of A planning team approach is used to develop reference for public review. Local municipal integrated resource plans. The planning team governments reviewed the draft terms of reference consists of representatives from provincial I and suggested several additions. Public meetings to government agencies having major responsibilities discuss the terms of reference were held in June or interests in resource management in the planning 1988 in Barrhead and Fort Assiniboine. Public area. The planning, team coordinator from the I comments on the document were incorporated into Resource Planning Branch is responsible for the the final terms of reference (May 1989), where overall coordination of plan development and public appropriate. The terms of reference provided a involvement. framework to guide the planning team during I development of the plan. Preparation of the terms of reference was followed I by the initiation of data collection and analysis, which was ongoing throughout the development of I 4 I I I The Athabasca River Sandhills planning team has 4. to inform the public about the potential impacts I representatives from the following agencies: of resource management decisions; and • Forestry, Lands and Wildlife 5. to inform government officials about public - Alberta Forest Service opinion regarding the plan. I - Fish and Wildlife Division - Public Lands Division Opportunities for public involvement were provided • Tourism, Parks and Recreation during preparation of the terms of reference and • Energy. the draft plan. At the initial stages of plan development, an attempt was made to contact all Consultative team members were identified and individuals and groups who had indicated an interest given the opportunity to present agency information in participating. Subsequent effort was concentrated I and concerns at key stages of the planning process. on those parties that had a continuing interest. The following provincial agencies participated as 1 consultants in the planning project: • Agriculture 2.0 POLICY AND PLANNING CONTEXT • Community and Occupational Health • Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) I • Environment Resource management activities in the Athabasca • Transportation and Utilities. River Sandhills planning area are guided by numerous government directives including I Representatives from the Land Information Services legislation, policies and regulations. These provided Division (Forestry, Lands and Wildlife) completed the context for developing the integrated resource an integrated resource inventory for the Athabasca plan. I River Sandhills planning area, and provided further advise and interpretation on the physical land information when required by the planning team. 2.1 Legislation and Associated Directives I In addition, representatives from the county of A range of resource management legislation and Barrhead, hamlet of Fort Assiniboine, town of associated regulations applies throughout Alberta Barrhead, town of , Improvement District and was considered during development of the I No. 15 and the Ydllowbead Regional Planning Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Commission consulted with the planning team to Resource Plan. Examples of such legislation are ensure the fullest possible local and regional input. the Public Lands Act, Water Resources Act, Forests Act,, Wildlife Act and Historic Resources Act. In I Public involvement occurred during plan addition, there are numerous government directives, development to provide the public with information such as orders in council and ministerial orders, that and opportunities to comment on planning guide resource management activities. I documents. Specific objectives of public involvement are: 2.2 Integrated Resource Management I 1. to use the knowledge of residents to evaluate and Plpnnin2 and improve the resource database; As stated in the document, A System for Integrated 2. to obtain public opinion on issues that should Resource Planning in Alberta (1991), the provincial I be addressed and resource management government is committed to an integrated approach direction that should be included in the plan; to resource management which recognizes that the management and use of one resource may affect the I 3. to build public support for the plan; management and use of another resource. Integrated resource management attempts to reduce I or resolve any conflicts and enhance or promote I 5 1 positive interactions between resource management categories of suitability for exploration and and use activities. development. The Athabasca River Sandbills planning area is mainly in Category 3 where coal Integrated resource planning is a decision-making "exploration is desirable and may be permitted process that is an integral component of integrated under appropriate control," and commercial resource management. In integrated resource development will be approved subject to proper planning, the goals, objectives and proposed actions assurances respecting protection of the environment of various government agencies are compared and and reclamation of disturbed land." subsequently confirmed or modified to create a plan that is acceptable to all involved agencies. A local integrated resource plan provides direction for field- 23 White Area/Green Area level, resource management decision making in the form of a set of resource management objectives Provincial public land is administered either as the and a course of action to achieve those objectives. Green Area or the White Area. The Green Area The Athabasca River Sancihills draft plan was was established by Order in Council in 1948 and developed in the context of integrated resource contains lands not suitable for agricultural management and planning. development other than grazing. Public land in this area are managed primarily for forest production, water, recreation, fish and wildlife, grazing and 23 Plan Administration and Zoning other multiple uses. The White Area is the region of the province settled initially, and includes nearly The majority of the Athabasca River Sandhills one-third of the total area of Alberta. White Area planning area is located within Alberta Forestry, lands which are suitable for settlement and Lands and Wildlifes administrative region for the agriculture and are not required for other multiple Eastern Slopes; however, a substantial portion falls uses (such as soil and water conservation, forestry, within the departments Northeast Administrative recreation, or fish and wildlife habitat), may be Region as well. By mutual agreement between the applied for pursuant to the Public Lands Act. two regions, the Eastern Slopes Regional Resource Management Committee (RRMC) has taken primary administrative responsibility for the 2.6 Plans Under the PlanninLAct development of this plan. The Northeast RRMC has participated in the review and will be The Planning Act provides for planning and responsible for implementation of recommendations regulating of land use and the pattern of human in that portion of the plan within the Northeast settlement in Alberta. Most private development, region. whether on private or public land, is under the jurisdiction of the Act and plans prepared under the Although the planning area is located outside the act are legally binding documents. The Yellowhead area covered by A Policy for Resource Management Regional Plan, the Land Use Bylaw for the County of the Eastern Slopes, Revised 1984, and is not of Barrhead and the Land Use Order for explicitly guided by that policy, the Athabasca River Improvement District No. 15 apply within the Sandhills plan uses the zoning system of the Eastern Athabasca River Sandhills planning area. Slopes Policy to be consistent with other integrated resource plans in the Eastern Slopes administrative Integrated resource plans differ in that they apply region. only to provincial public land and resources and have no legal status. However, they do represent provincial goverument policy and government 2.4 A Coal Develoument Policy for Alberta agencies implement the provisions of the plan under the authority of their enabling legislation, A Coal Development Policy for Alberta (Coal regulations, programs and referral processes. Policy), released in 1976, guides the exploration and development of coal resources throughout the Coordination between provincial resource province. The province is divided into four management agencies and key municipal consultants

6 I is essential to ensuring that IRPs and plans area. The survey consisted of 267 field interviews of I prepared under the Planning Act are consistent and recreational users within the planning area and 853 supportive of one another. responses (25 percent) to a mailed questionnaire, which was distributed within a 50 km (30 mi.) radius of the planning area. I 2.7 Fish and Wildlife Policy for Alberta

The Fish and Wildlife Policy for Alberta was I approved by the Alberta Cabinet in October 1982.. 4.0 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY This policy provides general direction regarding outdoor recreation, wildlife resources, fisheries resources and regulatory aspects of fish and wildlife The resource management strategy for the I use. The most significant components of the policy Athabasca River Sandhills consists of: are a provincial fish and wildlife outdoor recreation plan and an assessment of the status of fisheries and • a statement of intent for resource management I wildlife resources. within the planning area, • a resource summary and a set of management objectives and guidelines for each individual I resource sector, and 3.0 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS • a land use zoning scheme.

I The best available information was used in 4.1 Primary Plan Intent developing the Athabasca River Sandhills plan. Reliance on existing data reduced the time required The primary intent for resource management in the I for plan preparation. Athabasca River Sandhills planning area is as follows: To facilitate decision making, resource management I agencies collected information in the categories of To allow for the potential development and use present use, demand, potential and capability for of a range of available resources, particularly resources under their jurisdiction. Information was recreational resources, while maintaining the collected and analyzed for the following resources: integrity of the natural environment. U agricultural, ecological, fisheries, historical, mineral, recreational, timber, tourism, water, watershed and The Athabasca River Sandhuls plan was developed wildlife. within the scope of the resource management 1 objectives identified by participating agencies. An ecological Land classification map and legend These objectives provide standards for the future with evaluations for specific resource uses was which participating agencies will strive to attain. prepared by Land Information Services of Alberta They reflect government priorities for the Athabasca I Forestry, Lands and Wildlife. Information was River Sandhills and are expressed as they relate to plotted on a standard base map of the planning area a particular resource. Following the objectives for to allow geographic comparison. Minor data gaps each resource are the resource management I were filled during the planning process; the plan guidelines. A resource management guideline is a also contains provisions for filling major data gaps. description of a management action or a condition For example, a biophysical inventory was completed placed on the use of a resource that contributes to I in 1989 for the Holmes Crossing area. This achievement of resource management objectives. resulted in a more detailed evaluation of the resource features of the potential Natural Area. The Athabasca River Sandhills plan uses the zoning categories from the Eastern Slopes Policy to provide I The Alberta Forest Service also conducted a survey resource management direction. The zones during the summer of 1988 to determine the type designate land for varying degrees of protection, I and distribution of recreational use in the planning resource management and development. The I 7 I planning team interpreted the general intent of runs from Barrhead to Fort Assiniboine across the these zones (Table 1) and defined zoning centre of the planning area. Secondary Highway boundaries in the planning area. The zoning does 661 runs from Vega to Fort Assiniboine across the not apply to privately owned land. Table 2 northern portion of the planning area and crosses (modified from the Eastern Slopes Policy) defines the Athabasca River at the Klondike (Vega) ferry a range of compatible activities that follow the crossing. The Klondike Ferry is one of the few intent of the land use zones. Figure 3 identifies the remaining ferry operations in Alberta and is a zoning applied in the Athabasca River Sanditills significant local attraction. In addition to these planning area major access roads, there are many smaller roads that are associated with petroleum and natural gas Prime Protection (Zone 1) was applied to the exploration and development. A network of seismic conservation portion of the Holmes Crossing lines, pipeline rights-of-way and a large transmission Candidate Natural Area, recognizing the biological line right-of-way also provide access to much of the diversity and extreme environmental sensitivity of planning area. Although some of these are suitable this nationally significant sand dune area. Critical for four-wheel-drive vehicles, most are useable only Wildlife (Zone 2) was applied to riparian areas by off-highway vehicles (OHV). along the Athabasca River to protect moose winter range and fisheries. It was also applied to an area Increased access associated with resource north of Tinieu Creek, to protect moose and development and recreation can have a negative woodland caribou habitat. Special Use (Zone 3) impact on ecological and wildlife resources. Heavy was applied to the recreation portion of the Holmes recreation off-highway vehicle use has had adverse Crossing Candidate Natural Area and the entire impacts in several locations within the planning Vega Candidate Recreation Natural Area. This area. Such vehicles can damage terrain and reduce zone recognizes the recreation potential of the two water quality by stripping surface vegetation, which areas, and will allow them to be managed in a results in soil erosion. Although increased access manner that is consistent with the Natural Areas often provides people with greater wildlife viewing program until they can be formally established by opportunities, it can create user conflicts as well as Order in Council. General Recreation (Zone 4) negatively affect fish and wildlife resources by was applied to an area northeast of Fort increasing pressure on wildlife populations (i.e., Asiniboinc to protect an area of diverse landscape hunting, poaching, harassment). In addition to features (sand dunes, river valley and islands). This these ecological and wildlife concerns, area offers several potential recreation opportunities indiscriminate OI-IV use along Secondary Highway and is a possible provincial park or provincial 661 has been identified as a public safety concern. recreation site. Multiple Use (Zone 5) was applied to the remainder of the planning area to provide for Objectives the management and use of a range of resources while meeting long-term objectives for watershed 1. To coordinate access and infrastructure and environmental protection. development in order to minimize adverse effects on resources and resource users. The following set of management objectives and guidelines are organized alphabetically by resource 2. To meet the access and infrastructure sector and no priority is implied by the sequence. requirements of resource users where appropriate.

42 Access and Infrastructure 3. To manage recreational off-highway vehicle use to minimize environmental impacts. Discussion

Access and infrastructure developments affect all resources and resource users in the Athabasca River Sandhills planning area. The major access route through the planning area is Highway 33, which

8 I

I TABLE 1. Intents of the Athabasca River Sandhllls Zones, I

I I# Zone INTENT OF THE ZONE 1 Prime Protection To preserve environmentally sensitive terrain and valuable I aesthetic resources. 2 Critical Wildlife To protect specific fish and wildlife populations by protecting aquatic and terrestrial habitat that is crucial to the maintenance I of those populations. 3 Special Use To recognize historical resources, scientific research areas and I lands that have unique management requirements or legislative status, or that cannot be accommodated elsewhere. I 4 General Recreation To retain a variety of natural environments to serve as a focus for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.

I 5 Multiple Use To provide for the management and development of the full range of available resources, while meeting long-term objectives I for watershed management and environmental protection. I 6 Agriculture To designate lands that are currently used or are considered I suitable for cultivation and/or improved grazing. 7 Industrial To recognize existing or approved industrial operations.

I 8 Facility To recognize existing or approved settlement and commercial I development areas. I 1 This zoning system was adapted from A Policy For Resource Management For The Eastern Slopes - Revised 1984 to reflect the management intent of zoning in the Athabasca River Sandhills Integrated I Resource Plan I Not applied in the Athabasca River Sandhills planning area I I 9 I ------Table 2. Compatible Activities by Land Use Zone.

ZONE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. PRIME CRITICAL SPECIAL GENERAL MULTIPLE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRIAL FACIUTY ACTIVITY PROTECTION WILDLIFE USE RECREATION USE Non-motorized recreation U . . • .... 111111UHh1141111111111IIII III4IlUJI4.UII1II1IliIiI. • . i._ .. Fishing .. . U . !1PIIIIIIIPIIIftIIIUIJIIIPIPIN. X I4IlII_JIiIli4RhIH Hunting . 0 • . ..4...... tC!I!I 1IIIIIIIIIIIIlIIIIlI Scientific study 0 0 0 t144UH,UHhIIIIlI H Trapping U . 0 U AX IIIIIJIPIIPIIIIPIIflhI1IIIJII IIIlIIII4l4$$$$.,lAU4lI j1It(I._.l_L1Ili1.i41 X Trails, non-motorized 0 0 0 U U flh1II!IIIIIIIIJIIIIIIIIII IIlIIJIIuIIPIIIIIIII Transportation and utility corridors X 0 0 0 U ...... Primitive camping 0 . 0 • ulIsIJIII•II.HuIJIHIuI1IIIJ I1.I1.IIiIIIslItut.IIu. .. .. Intensive recreation X 0 0 U !LIIUlIUI4tN4#l1-t44M4 IISlIIIlIllIIIlIISIiIIIIiIIl 1111411141i4H1i11111 Equestrian use X U 0 0 U ._•FIIU.UJ.WPlflhIHfljIII uIuIIIIlIlIIlllIIIIlI Off-highway vehicle activfly X 0 0 0 U jtIjWI_.1J1HHij1IiI1• ..•LJ1.1II)-t4LII X 0 0 0 I4tSIl4SIIlIIluIIlIIlIIIlIIL IIIIIIUIIIIIUIIIIIIUIIUI . Domestic grazing X 0 X X U IL Il-I U-II-Ufll IIIIISIlIItIllHhllISIiIIIU 11111111Ufl4111111t Minerals exploration and day X 0 X 0 U iuii I-.1iL- !:IIITl PIuIIIrIIiuIuIIIjIII Petroleum and natural gas X 0 0 0 exploration and development Coal development X 0 X X Coal exploration X 0 X 0 Surface materials X 0 0 0 Serviced camping X 0 0 U Commercial deveicpmem X X 0 0 0 Industrial development X X X X U Residential subdivisions X X X X 0 Cultivation X 0 X X 0

• Compatible Use -Uses that are considered to be compatible with the These activities are only representative of the range of activities that occur intent of a land use zone under normal guidelines in the Athabasca River Sandhills. For these and any other activities, the and land use regulations. possibility of whether they should or should not take place in a particular area must always be measured against the fundamental management o Permissible Use -Uses that may be compatible with the intent of a land intentions for that zone. Since economic opportunities are not all known use zone under certain circumstances and under in advance, site-specific developments may be considered in any zone. special conditions and controls where necessary.

X Not-Compatible Use-Uses that are not considered to be compatible with Not applicable to the Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan the intent or capabilities of a land use zone. E3 Note This matrix provides general direction in each of the zones, however, it must be read in conjunction with the objectives and guidelines in each resource sector.

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Guidelines 43 Agricultural Resources I 1. Resource users will be encouraged to use Discussion common access corridors to minimize duplication and environmental impacts. Service Farming operations in the planning area produce a industries and proponents of new facilities and wide variety of agricultural products including cereal I linear developments will be encouraged to use grains, oilseed, forage crops and livestock. existing corridors. Agricultural development is located mainly along the edge of the planning area, where the land I 2.. Local Authorities in consultation with Alberta generally has a higher agricultural capability. Transportation and Utilities are planning to Agricultural capability ratings for the planning area relocate a portion of Secondary Highway 661. range from Class 3 to 7 under the Canada Land The completion of this work will allow for an I Inventory (CLI) classification system, but the improved ferry crossing site. The road majority of the lands are Class 5 to 7. (Refer to the relocation will be subject to review by Glossary for further information on CLI classes.) interested government agencies, local I authorities and the public. Presently, 31 agricultural dispositions cover approximately 4261 ha (10 530 ac.) of the planning 3. The location of major infrastructure area. Approximately 461 ha (1140 ac.) of these I developments and transportation and utility grazing dispositions are improved pasture. The corridors will consider environmental and existing carrying capacity of grazing dispositions is economic concerns identified through the approximately 2850 Animal Unit Months (AUMs). referral process. In addition to conventional agricultural uses, there I are several wild rice growing operations on small 4. Transfer of responsibility for road operation lakes in the northern end of the planning area. and maintenance from commercial operators to I public administration will be considered (if a Small parcels of land that are suitable for commercial road receives a significant amount agricultural development are scattered throughout of public use, and continued public use is the planning area. There is also site-specific demand I consistent with the long-term development from local farmers seeking public land for intent for the road system). agriculture. Any potential expansion of grazing must consider sensitive ecological conditions and 5. An access management plan will be initiated for compatibility with other resource uses. I the Fort Assiniboine Sandhills area (Figure 3). The intents are to identify an access network Objectives suitable for motorized and non-motorized I recreation use and to address safety concerns 1. To maintain the forage base in good condition regarding off-highway vehicle activity along for use by domestic livestock and wildlife. Secondary Highway 661. The draft access management plan will be reviewed by interested I 2. To maintain or increase domestic livestock government resource management agencies, grazing levels. local authorities and the public. 3. To maintain or increase wild rice operations. I 6. Access management or restrictions may be applied to environmentally sensitive areas as Guidelines described in other resource sectors I (subsections: 4.4, 4.7, 4.8, 4.13). 1. Any expansion of unimproved or improved grazing levels will consider land suitability, other resource users and resource values. I 2. Range management plans on suitable grazing dispositions will continue to be developed by I 12 I I I Forestry, Lands and Wildlife and any other area is notable because the area between the dunes I concerned agencies before range improvement is covered by muskeg; swamps and small open lakes. occurs. The organic areas and waterbodies are surrounded 3. New agricultural dispositions will be considered by stabilized parabolic dunes. Some dunes show I only on land identified as Multiple Use (Zone transitional forms from transverse to parabolic- 5). shaped dunes Although other locations along the Athabasca and Peace rivers contain transverse I 4. Good range management practices will be dunes, none of these areas are so well preserved promoted, including maintenance of an and so little alteied. adequate winter forage carryover for wildlife and management of livestock to ensure uniform The Holmes Crossing Sandhills are currently I use of the range. reserved under a protective notation (PNT), placed by the Public Lands Division, to establish a 5. Existing wild rice dispositions will continue to Candidate Natural Area. (Official designation as a I be recognized and new operations will be Natural Area must be established by Order in considered, where feasible, based on existing Council under the authority of the Wilderness policies. Areas, Ecological Reserves and Natural Areas Act.) I The boundary of this reservation will be revised to include only those lands that are required for the 4.4 Ecological Resources proposed natural area (Figure 5). The main objective of Natural Areas is to maintain the natural I Discussion characteristics of the sites. The Holmes Crossing Candidate Natural Area will consist of a Ecological resources are unique or representative conservation area (Prime Protection - Zone 1) and I ecological features or systems that have been a recreation area (Special Use - Zone 3) to meet identified within the planning area. There are a the needs of various user groups. number of legislated mechanisms, programs and policy initiatives which can be implemented to The Fort Assiniboine Sandhills are found in the ensure the protection of ecological resources. northern half of the planning area, on the west side These initiatives vary in their scope, size, objectives of the Athabasca River, extending from a point 3 and level of protection they provide to ecological km (2 mi.) northeast of the hamlet of Fort I systems. Assiniboinc for a distance of 40 km (25 mi.) along the river. These sandhills form the largest dune Although no areas within the Athabasca River complex along the central reaches of the Athabasca I Sandliills planning area are currently protected by River, and are used extensively for recreation. The legislation, several areas with significant ecological types of dunes in the area are similar to those in the resources have been identified (Figure 4). In Holmes Crossing area except that only a few addition to the Athabasca River Valley, which transverse dunes are preserved. South of the I includes the Vega Candidate Natural Area, there Klondike Ferry Road (Secondary Highway 661), the are two sites of particular interest within the dunes are at a higher elevation and are better planning area: the Holmes Crossing Sandhills and drained. These are mainly transitional and I the Fort Assiniboine Sandhills. parabolic dunes. North of the road, the dunes vary from transverse to transitional to parabolic, and are The Holmes Crossing Sandhills contain interspersed with extensive muskegs, swamps and I approximately 73 k& (28 sq. mi.) of sand dunes lakes. The Fort Assiniboine Sandhills are important southwest of the Holmes Crossing; a smaller dune because of the extent of these mixed dune types. field of approximately 13 km2 (5 sq. mi.) is located Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation holds a northeast of the principal formation. The area protective notation on most of the dune area for the I contains stabilized transverse dunes, which are a purpose of establishing a provincial park or a relatively rare type of sand dune formation and Provincial recreation site. This reservation will be I unique in Canada. The northwestern third of the revised to include only those lands that are required I 13 I

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Fi9ure 5. Proposed Reservations for the proposed provincial park and/or recreation 3. Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation will site (Figure 5). The revised reservation will protect maintain a PNT on a portion of the Fort the best representative features of the Fort Assiniboine Sandhills (Figure 5) for Assmiboine Sandhik development of a provincial park or recreation area. The notation will act as a holding The Vega Candidate Recreational Natural Area mechanism until the type of designation has (Figure 5) is located within the Athabasca River been determined and approved. valley east of the Athabasca River (Twp. 62, Rge. 4, W5M). A protective notation (PNT) was placed on 4. The location, intensity and types of activities the land to protect representative features of the may be restricted to minimize soil disturbance Athabasca River valley and the recreation potential and access management problems. of the area. The land is characterized by river terraces and sandy uplands, with existing trails 5. Motorized vehicle use will be prohibited in the throughout and good river access. The PNT will conservation portion (Zone 1) of the proposed allow the land to be managed in a manner that is Holmes Crossing Natural Area, and restricted consistent with the intent of the Natural Areas to designated routes in the recreation portion program, until such time as a decision is made on (Zone 3) of this Natural Area and in the Vega the areas formal establishment by Order in Natural Area (Zone 3), except for management Council. purposes.

Objectives 6. A management plan will be prepared with public input for the Holmes Crossing Natural 1. To preserve selected unique or representative Area after it has been designated by Order in natural ecosystems and/or features. Council.

2. To provide for the recreational, scientific and educational use of ecological resources. 4.5 Fisheries Resources

3. To establish the Holmes Crossing and Vega Discussion Natural Areas as well as a provincial park or provincial recreation site. The rivers and streams of the Athabasca River Sand.hills planning area support a wide variety of Guidelines fish species. The Athabasca River fish populations include rainbow trout, bull trout, arctic grayling, 1. Appropriate land use reservations or notations mountain whitefish, northern pike, walleye, got deye, will be maintained or applied to protect burbot and white sucker. The ecologically significant resources. If required, supports the same species with the exception of bull further legislative protection (e.g., Ecological trout and goldeye. The Corbett, Goose, Horse, Reserve, Natural Area, Provincial Park Clearwater, Doris and Timeu creeks are reported to programs or Forest Land Use Zones) will be have both arctic grayling and northern pike explored. populations. These creeks have lower gradients and as a result are slower moving with high sediment 2. A PNT will be maintained on land between the toads. This, and the presence of beaver dams, can Holmes Crossing Natural Area and private land limit fisheries productivity for certain species. to the southeast (Figure 5). The purpose of this reservation is to assist in managing access Some of the lakes in the area were tested to to the Natural Area and to leave an opportunity determine their potential for sustaining fisheries. for expansion of the Natural Area by They were found to be shallow with low oxygen incorporating some or all of these lands after levels, making them incapable of overwintering a further inventory and analysis are carried out. stocked sport fishery. Potential may exist for a put- and-take sport fishery should recreational demands increase.

16 I An Alberta Forest Service recreational activity study 4.6 Historical Resources I indicated that out of 22 different activities pursued in the planning area, fishing ranked as the fourth Discussion most popular. The pbinnirig boundary encompasses two fish management areas: Fish Management Area Archaeological Resources I 4 to the north and west of the Athabasca River and Fish Management Area 7 to the east. Restrictions The historical resource base for this planning area on several fish species have been implemented to is essentially unknown, and can be estimated only by I better manage fish populations in this portion of the comparing it to similar areas elsewhere within the province. These include restrictions on size, use of province that have been inventoried for historical bait, catch limits, and seasons. resources. Additional information can be obtained from surrounding areas that have sites similar to I There is currently no commercial fishing activity those which may ultimately be found in the planning within the planning area. area.

I Objectives The planning area is dominated by the Athabasca River and its valley which have likely acted as both I. To maintain and/or enhance the abundance, a transportation corridor and a resource harvesting I distribution and diversity of native fish locale for the last 10 000 years. Specific areas populations. Fisheries species currently include within the valley and along the river, such as arctic grayling, rainbow trout, mountain secondary stream entrances and terrace formations, whitefish, northern pike, goldeye, walleye and would have been attractive locations for human I bull trout. settlement and would likely contain significant historical resources. 2. To maintain the quality of fish habitat. I The Sandhifls are more difficult to assess. As a 3. To provide opportunities for recreational use of result of the shifting nature of this landform, fisheries resources and provide the following historical resource sites can be eroded and re- catch per unit effort for the indicated species: buried. Fortunately, there is information available I from nearby settings that may pertain to the human (a) trout, mountain whitefish, arctic grayling history of the Sandhills area. Shoal Lake is located and walleye in streams and rivers - 03 fish less than 15 km from the southeastern border of the I per angler hour; planning area, and sites around this lake display evidence of near continuous human occupation for (b) goldeye - 0.4 fish per angler hour; and the last 10 000 years. it is quite likely that those groups which exploited the resources associated with I this lake would also be aware of the resources (c) northern pike - 0.8 fish per angler hour. within the Sandhills and Athabasca River areas. Guidelines Materials recovered from the Shoal Lake sites I indicate trade in resource materials occurred in an 1. Sport fish populations will be protected from area extending from North Dakota to northern overuse by anglers. British Columbia; this substantiates the potential for I significant historical resources sites within the 2. Critical fish habitat, including spawning and planning area. Any development that is planned in rearing areas and migratory routes, will be the vicinity of the river and valley, or new protected. substantial bodies of water, should be carefully I scrutinized for the presence of historical resources. 3. Resource development and recreational angling I will be managed to protect fish populations. Historic Period Resources The Hudsons Bay Company erected Fort I Assiniboine on the Athabasca River in 1823. A I 17 I I north-south trail was constructed between the post The Historic Sites Service advises that future plans and Edmonton in the winter of 1824-25, and Fort for the Athabasca River Sandhills area should Assiniboine became an important transportation include provisions for recording and documenting I point in the Companys transcontinental route from any historic structures, artifacts or historic trail to the Pacific coast between 1824- remnants that may be found, and also requests they 1860. With the closure of the fort in 1877, the area be informed of such resources or any developments I remained isolated until the Edmonton Trail was affecting identified resources. revived as part of the that carried prospectors on their trek to the during the Palaeontological Resources 1897-1899 Gold Rush. The grave of a young I daughter of one of these early prospectors still lies The planning area is underlain by bedrock of the along the original Klondike Trail in the planning Wapiti Formation. The Wapiti Formation is a area. Protection of both the trail and the gravesite continental unit of Late Cretaceous age ranging I have been identified as local concerns within the from Campanian at its base to Maestrichtian at its planning area. top. The formation consists of sandstone, siltstone, mudstones, coals, bentozutes and ironstone. It I Squatters settled on land in the area in 1905 and yields dinosaur fossils as well as a variety of settlement continued thereafter, with the greatest freshwater invertebrates and plant fossils. In the influx of homesteaders coming between 1911 and region northwest of Edmonton, including the 1914. In 1905, William B. Holmes squatted south of I planning area, significant exposures of the Wapiti Fort Assiniboine near where an old Klondike ferry formation are rare and are restricted to steep-sided operated on Horse Creek. A ferry was re- river drainages or road cuts. Because of these established at the site in 1906 with William Holmes limitations, only a few localities with significant I as the ferryman. When the land survey came palaeontological resources (e.g., Pachyrhinosaunss though in 1907, the crossing point became known bone bed southwest of ) have been as Holmes Crossing. In 1910, Holmes Crossing discovered so far. 1 post office was named after its postmaster and resident ferryman. By 1913, the ferry duties were Fresh, extensive exposures resulting from highway taken over by Guy Stuart who later passed them on development in drainage valleys have a good to Wes Cartwright, who operated the ferry until potential for revealing palaeontological resources of I 1944. widely varying importance. While there is no immediate concern about the impact of The settlement at Holmes Crossing grew to include development on palaeontological sites in the I several residences, a school (1930), store, garage planning area, it should be pointed out that future and community hall. It declined in the 1940s and a development may reveal significant palaeontological major flood in 1954 washed away many houses. resources in this area. Therefore, project planners I should be encouraged to anticipate the likelihood of The only structure remaining at Holmes Crossing is palaeontological resource discoveries when their the log residence built by the Chisholm Saw Mills in development involves significant bedrock exposure. 1934 for Harry MacDonald, foreman for the I Chisholm Lumber Company. The house was Objectives purchased about 1947 by Jiggs (Carson) Cartwright. His mother lived there and operated the post office 1. To protect and/or preserve historical resources I until her death in 1957. The house was occupied (archaeological, palaeontological, historical and until 1969 and then again in the 1980s. natural), as dcfmed in the Historical Resources Act, from potential or actual adverse effects The Historic Sites Service Inventory of Potential related to future resource developments. I Historic Sites does not contain any other listings for the Athabasca River Sandhills planning area. 2. To manage historical resource sites for However, it is believed that sites might be scientific, educational and interpretive purposes. I discovered should more detailed surveys be undertaken. I 18 I I I Guidelines under disposition for petroleum and natural gas I activity. Most of the disposed subsurface rights are 1. Resource uses in the planning area involving in the southwestern part of the planning area. land surface disturbance may require Historical Portions of seven ERCB fields (the Corbett, Flume, Resources Impact Assessments before Fort Assiniboine, Lepine, Mystery, and I development occurs, as outlined under Section Timeu) cover about one quarter of the planning 33(2) of the Historical Resources Act. area. There are two producing gas wells in the planning area, which are located south of the 2. The Archaeological Survey of Alberta, Athabasca River in the Neerlandia field. There are I Resource Management Section, will participate also 6 capped gas wells, 1 suspended well and 21 in the land use referral process. They will abandoned wells. review proposed development projects within I those areas of the Athabasca River Sandhills QW planning area considered to have high historical resources potential. Coal exists in the south-central portion of the I planning area in the Shoal Lake deposit of the 3. To facilitate this referral process, Alberta Barrhead Coal Field. This deposit has an Culture and Multiculturalism may develop a established reserve of 80 megatonnes of historical resources sensitivity map for the subbitumous coal. Although coal in the Barrhead 1 planning area. This map will outline areas of field is generally classed as underground minable, historical resources potential for which Alberta the thin coal seams of the Shoal Lake deposit are Culture and Multiculturalism requests referral not considered economically recoverable by I of proposed development projects. This map is underground methods. There has been no coal to be distributed to other government agencies exploration or development in the planning area, involved in land management for their and the rights are currently undisposed. 1 reference during the course of the regular referral process. Quarriable Minerals

4. Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism will There are no agreements or reserve estimates for 1 identify specific types of development projects the planning area at this time. to be referred at the implementation stage of I this plan. Objectives 5. Historical resources sites considered to be of 1. To provide opportunities for the continued provincial significance will be protected and exploration and development of petroleum and I preserved for future generations through the natural gas resources where proven reserves Historical Resources Act. exist, or where potentially productive formations are anticipated. I 4.7 Mineral Resources 2. To provide opportunities for the assessment of coal resources to determine potential reserves. Discussion I Guidelines Petroleum and Natural Gas 1. Mineral resource exploration and development The planning area is underlain by less than 1 will follow the existing approval processes, and I percent of Albertas remaining natural gas reserves, will be conducted in a manner that will with an approximate volume of 381 million m3. The minimize impacts on other land uses and gas is found in the Viking and Mannvillc formations resource values. I of the Lower Cretaceous period, and in the Belly River formation of the Upper Cretaceous period. 2. Coal exploration and development in the I Approximately one half of the planning area is Critical Wildlife Zone (Zone 2) and the I 19 I Multiple Use Zone (Zone 5) will be subject to 4.8 Recreational and Tourism Resources the normal regulatory approval process and the Coal Development Policy (1976a) for Alberta. Discussion

3. To protect sensitive ecological resources in the The recreation and tourism potential of the conservation portion of the Holmes Crossing Athabasca River Sandhills planning area is Candidate Natural Area (Zone 1), vehicle regionally significant. The area provides access and tree clearing will not be permitted opportunities for extensive, dispersed recreation to during geophysical activities. residents of the planning area as well as the surrounding region. . Use of the planning area is 4. In the conservation portion of the Holmes heaviest on weekends in the summer. A recreation Crossing Candidate Natural Area (Zone 1), user survey of the planning area, conducted by the petroleum and natural gas development will not Alberta Forest Service, determined that more than be permitted except to honour existing lease half of survey respondents travelled farther than 100 commitments; access and development will km to use the area. Most of these people were occur in a manner that prevents or mitigates from Edmonton. negative impacts on the areas ecological resources and recreational values. (For Typical recreational and tourism pursuits in the example, clearing and trail development will be planning area include OHV activities, snowmobiling, limited to prevent disturbance of sensitive cross-country and downhill skiing, camping, hiking, dunes.) nature viewing, fishing, hunting, berry picking and horseback riding. Water-based activities, such as 5. In the two Candidate Recreation Natural Areas canoeing and power boating, are also popular on (Zone 3), petroleum and natural gas the Athabasca River. exploration and development will be permitted subject to specific surface access restrictions; At the present time, tourism facilities and services these restrictions will minimize negative impacts within the planning area are limited. The hamlet of of the activity (e.g., clearing and trail Fort Assiniboine and the town of Barrhead, located development will be limited to reduce access outside the planning area, provide the majority of management problems). tourism services for the Athabasca River Sandhills area. The Town of Barrhead, improvement District 6. Petroleum and natural gas development and #15 and the County of Barrhead recognize the coal and mineral exploration throughout Zone importance of directing tourism development in the 4 will occur in a manner that minimizes area and have prepared Community Tourism Action negative impacts on the Fort Assiniboine Plans (CTAPs). Sandhills. To avoid limiting future park development options, surface access for Concerns have been expressed by the public. petroleum and natural gas development and regarding conflicts between motorized and non coal and mineral exploration will not be motorized recreation activities. Recreational OHV permitted below the river valley break. The activity is recognized as a legitimate use of public only exception is to honour existing petroleum land in appropriate locations; however, this type of and natural gas lease commitments. activity has occurred on environmentally sensitive land throughout the planning area. Such 7. Seismic exploration will be permitted in Zone indiscriminant use can potentially result in negative 4 subject to conditions outlined through existing impacts on other resource users, and on terrain, referral and approval processes. vegetation, wildlife, and water quality.

Random camping is widespread throughout the planning area. Currently, Alberta Provincial Parks Service operates a small primitive campground (15 sites) at Holmes Crossing along Highway 33. The County of Barrhead also operates a small

20 I campground with eight sites and minimal facilities 2. To provide and promote a wide range of I near the Kiondike Ferry Crossing. At present, recreation opportunities and tourism services. random camping has not created any acute problems with respect to the planning areas 3. To encourage all sectors within the tourism condition or quality. However, further protection or industry (public, private and non-profit) to I additional facilities may be required if use of the increase the quality and diversity of tourism area increases significantly. The hamlet of Fort facilities, services, attractions, events and Assiniboine has recently acquired a 7 ha (17 ac) supporting infrastructure. I recreation lease for a primitive campground on an island directly south of the hamlet (Pt. S.W. 1-62-6- 4. To minimize conflicts between recreation users, W5). especially motorized and non-motorized user I groups. There is increasing public pressure for intensive recreation development in the area. The potential S. To minimize the impacts of recreation use on for campground expansion, especially for campsites the environment and wildlife resources in the I with access to watercourses to meet the needs of jet planning area. boaters, canoeists and other users along the Athabasca River, has been identified. Expansion of 6. To establish a provincial park or provincial I opportunities for snowmobiling and cross-country recreation area. skiing may also result in increased winter use of the area. Guidelines

I In addition to the current camp ground facilities, 1. Proposals for commercial recreation and there are two candidate Natural Areas and an area tourism development on public land will be under reservation for a provincial park or a reviewed through the Commercial Tourism and 1 provincial recreation area. These areas are set Recreation Leasing (CTRL) process. The aside to protect sensitive or scenic public land from CRL process is administered by Alberta disturbance, and to ensure the availability of lands Tourism, Parks and Recreation and Alberta in a natural state for recreation and education, and Forestry, Lands and Wildlife. I as a natural heritage resource. At the present time, Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation holds a 2. Environmental impacts from recreation and protective notation on land along the north side of tourism developments will be minimized I the Athabasca River, between Fort Assiniboine and through appropriate conditions on public land the northern boundary of the planning area, for a dispositions. provincial park or a recreation area. This I reservation will be altered to include only those 3. Development of recreational and tourist lands (Figure 5) that are required for the proposed facilities and services by the provincial park or recreation area. This protected area is government may occur in response to an primarily intended to accommodate activities such identified demand and within available budgets. I as picnicking, boating, hunting, fishing, hiking, cross- country skiing, low-density auto access camping, 4. Consultation and advice will be provided by interpretation and hike-in camping. Other potential Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation and I recreational opportunities could include equestrian other government agencies to existing and and off-highway vehicle corridors and various potential operators of commercial tourism compatible commercial recreation developments facilities and services. Advise will also be I such as concessions and rental cabins. available to local communities and organizations interested in expanding the Objectives regions tourism industry. Where available, market and demand information will also be I 1. To protect recreational and tourism resources supplied. I in the planning area. I 21 I 5. Detailed site management plans or guidelines 2. To provide opportunities for the exploration will be prepared, and appropriate land use and development of surface materials, e.g., conditions will be applied to Holmes Crossing sand, gravel, clay and marl resources, while and Vega Candidate Natural Areas. recognizing other resource values.

6. Off-highway vehicle use will not be permitted in Guidelines the Prime Protection Zone (Zone 1), and will be restricted to designated routes in the Special 1. Surface materials will be managed on a site- Use Zone (Zone 3). Off-highway vehicle use specific basis through the existing referral will be restricted to designated routes in the systems to minimize impacts on other resource access management area (Figure 3) as deemed values. Gravel deposits that are developed will necessary to protect other resource values. be managed to maximize recovery of the will resource. 7. Primitive or random camping be permitted in Critical Wildlife (Zone 2), Special Use (Zone 2. To ensure resources remain available, 3) and General Recreation (Zone 4) land use reservations will be placed on land containing zones until overuse requires further significant known aggregate resources. management or protection of these areas. 3. Surface material exploration and development 8. Before a provincial park or provincial will be considered on a site-specific basis, recreation area is designated, interagency except in the Prime Protection Zone (Zone 1) review and public input will be solicited. This where it will not be permitted. input will help determine a final boundary, the range of permissible land uses and management 4. Reclamation of surface dispositions is required strategies for this area. When the park or subject to the conditions outlined within the recreation area is formally designated, individual lease agreements. consideration will be given to combining this area and the Holmes Crossing Natural Area under one administrative jurisdiction. 4.10 Timber Resources

Discussion 4.9 Surface Materials Timber resources in the Athabasca River Sandhills Discussion planning area are important locally. Small operators and sawmills rely on the planning area for Significant quantities of sand and gravel are found part of their timber supply. Timber harvesting on the alluvial floodplain of the Athabasca River. provides employment, supplementary income and Vast amounts of sand are also found in the sand community stability for residents of the area. dune areas within the planning area. There is little demand for sand, but substantial demand for gravel. The predominant coniferous tree species harvested There are three private surface material leases and is white spruce, suitable in size and quality for five government dispositions for sand and gravel. In sawlogs. Demand for deciduous timber is addition to existing dispositions, there are four increasing and there is an opportunity for local protective notations for potential sand and gravel loggers to sell aspen. A wide variety of tree species deposits covering approximately 971 ha (2400 ac.). and sizes of timber are used for many different products. In addition to white spruce and trembling Objectives aspen, there is a significant demand for pine, white birch and tamarack. 1. To ensure aggregate resources remain accessible. Protective reservations (i.e., for the Natural Areas, and provincial park or provincial recreation area) and inoperable slopes along the Athabasca River

22 I restrict logging of most of the timber in the and 1943, respectively. The entire northeast portion I planning area. Any lands supporting timber that of the planning area was burned in 1968. Major become available in the area, will be added to the fires in the Holmes Crossing area occurred in 1941 sustained yield forest land base for the W02 and and 1944. Parts of the original burned areas burned W3 Forest Management Units. The result will be again in 1961. The southwest corner of the 1 an increased volume of timber that is available for planning area was burned in 1968. local miscellaneous timber use. The largest threat from fire in the planning area I Within the forest protection area, the Alberta comes from adjacent settlement areas. Secondary Forest Service (AFS) is responsible for the threats come from users of the area, with lightning prevention, detection and suppression of all being the third largest threat. The AFS Vega wildfires. The forest protection area covers the lookout tower is the primary fixed detection facility I for the area, with the Imperial lookout tower entire planning area, except for that portion of land lying south and east of the Athabasca River, east of covering the southwest portion of the planning area. the Holmes Crossing campsite within the county of Aerial patrols are used during periods of high fire I Barrhead. The AFS assists the Fort Assiniboine hazard, and air tankers are stationed at and district volunteer fire departments in fighting or . fires on private property within ID #15. I Fire prevention efforts are generally concentrated Management of fires is an important component of on informing and educating the public and industry forest management that offers significant secondary regarding fire hazards, slash hazard abatement and benefits to other resource values in the planning development designs that reduce fire hazard. I area. Much of the area contains large stands of Burning permits and signs, and explaining fire pine, some of which are infested with dwarf hazard evaluation to industry and the public are the mistletoe. This parasitic plant attacks lodgepole primary fire prevention techniques used. Vegetation 1 pine and, occasionally, white spruce; it weakens the management around recreation sites and wildlife host, and eventually results in the mortality of the management projects may also occur. tree. Forest stands affected by the parasite (or I through secondary pathogens) are often unsuitable Objectives for commercial sawlog or roundwood purposes. Furthermore, the accumulation of dead material 1. To maintain a stable, healthy forest. A specific caused by this parasite poses a serious fuel loading component of this objective is to protect the I problem in the forest. Dwarf mistletoe can be forest from damage or destruction by fire, managed by proper harvesting practices and by the insects, disease or other causes. use of prescribed fire. Considering the sensitivity of I the area, suitable programs to minimize or 2. To manage forested lands on a sustained-yield eliminate the build-up of this fuel hazard will be basis to provide forest products for local developed. Camping in coniferous stands and residents, while allowing for other resource limited access along narrow, winding roads raises uses. I a concern about public safety in the event of a fire. 3. To ensure the salvage of merchantable timber Several major fires have affected the planning area on lands required for agricultural use or I during recorded history. In the 1920s, a large fire industrial development where a market for that burned over an area northeast of Fort Assiniboine, timber exists. commonly known as the Vega Sandhills. This fire I resulted in erosion of the sand dunes in the Vega Guidelines area. The Pride Valley and Deep Creek fires burned areas northeast of Fort Assiniboinc in 1941 1. Timber harvesting will be conducted according to existing Timber Harvest Planning and I The W3 Forest Management Unit will Operating Ground Rules (FLW 1990). Timber eventually become part of the proposed W11 harvesting plans will be modified where I management unit. necessary to protect or enhance important I 23 I wildlife habitat. Guidelines in the Forest 9. The W02 Forest Management Unit (including Landscape Management Strategies for Alberta lands outside the planning area) will be (FLW 1990) will be used to help minimize the assessed to identify land that is best suited for impact of harvesting operations on visual sustained-yield timber production, forage resources. production, wildlife habitat or other resource values. Lands selected for sustained-yield 2. Timber harvesting will be considered should timber production will be reserved from sale. sanitation/salvage treatments be required to control the spread of insects and disease, or to 10. Lands under grazing disposition will be assessed use dead, damaged or endangered timber. to identify suitable areas for forage and timber Where feasible, timber salvage operations will production. The larger of these. two areas will be coordinated with other land use activities, be designated as the productive land base. As such as wildlife enhancement projects, to ensure a general guideline, 40 percent of the that the timber is used. productive timber land base may be designated, Where appropriate, for tame forage production. 3. Timber harvesting in the Special Use Zone This area may be reduced due to wildlife (Zone 3) will not be permitted except to habitat concerns. Sixty percent of the remove dead, diseased, damaged or endangered productive timber land base may be designated timber. for sustained-yield timber production. Existing range improvement plans will be honoured. 4. Timber harvesting in the General Recreation Zone (Zone 4) may be permitted provided it is ii. Timber management plans will integrate timber not in conflict with objectives established for harvesting and reforestation with other land use the proposed provincial recreation area or park. activities such as range management and wildlife habitat management. 5. Islands in the Athabasca River will be managed for their aesthetic, ecological, recreational and 12. Reclamation of surface disturbances will wildlife values. Logging on the islands will not consider reforestation wherever practical. be permitted unless required for the maintenance or enhancement of these values. 13. Fire detection, risk planning and prevention Harvesting may occur to remove damaged programs will be implemented to ensure public (insect, disease, fire, blowdown) timber. safety and to protect timber and other resource values. Consultation with local planning 6. Lands designated for sustained yield will be authorities, communities and residents will identified and administered as a forest occur to minimize the risk and severity of management unit. Timber stands harvested wildfires, and to ensure public safety and the within areas designated for sustained-yield protection of natural resources. Fuel timber management will be reforested in modification programs will be considered and accordance with established policy and undertaken as required within or adjacent to regulations. settled or intensively developed areas.

7. Timber may be liquidated based on existing policy, prior to the sale of public land to private 4.11 Water Resources ownership. Discussion 8. The forest management unit boundaries for W02 and W3 will be realigned as part of the The Athabasca and Freeman rivers are the major development of a separate forest management drainages within the planning area. Portions of unit (Wil), primarily for miscellaneous timber several tributaries (Goose, Horse, Clearwater, use, as requested by local loggers and Timcu, Corbett and Doris creeks) also traverse the concerned citizens. planning area and join the main rivers. The incised channels of these drainages are the main

24 I hydrological feature in the area. The area also Resources Act, or other Acts of environmental I contains several small lakes that are generally significance, and planning strategies for the shallow and surrounded by muskeg. Athabasca River basin.

The Athabasca River and its tributaries provide for 2. Monitoring programs to determine potential 1 a number of water uses. According to a 1987 water impacts on water quality will continue, not only use study for the Athabasca River basin,, water to identify the need for mitigative action but demands within the planning area are minimal also to ensure water resources are protected I compared to supply. A spring at the Provincial and maintained, and enhanced when necessary. Park Service campsite (near the Highway 33 bridge across the Athabasca River) supplies both local 3. Major developments that may adversely affect I people and residents of surrounding communities. the water resources will be subject to an There are greater Water demands upstream and environmental evaluation to determine the downstream from the planning area; these demands extent of the impact, and develop mitigative include municipal, agricultural and industrial uses, measures. I and instream flow needs for the maintenance of riparian ecosystems and for water-based I recreational activities. 4.12 Watershed Mana2Cment Resource developments activities (e.g., timber Discussion harvesting, agricultural developments, oil and gas activities) can potentially affect water quality and The Athabasca River Sandhills planning area I quantity. Current land uses and development occupies a portion of lands along the Athabasca activities in the planning area have not had a River. Primary landforms include sand dune areas significant effect on the water. The public has (colian plains) and organic areas (muskegs and I expressed concerns about water quality, however, bogs) bisected by stream channels. Extensive land due to possible future developments. These slumping and erosion occur along most of the concerns are focused on the Athabasca River and stream channels. The area is heavily used for land I the aforementioned spring. The negative effects of and water-based recreational activities. Other land industrial and land use activity upstream of the use activities in the area include timber harvesting, planning area are also continuing concerns. livestock grazing, trapping, and exploration and development of petroleum and natural gas. I Objectives Current uses of public land in the planning area 1. To maintain streaznflows and to protect basic have had a minimal effect on watershed resources. I water quality and instream uses so that the However, erosion caused by activities such as off- Athabasca River and its tributaries are highway vehicle use and the exploration and sustained for present and future generations. development of petroleum and natural gas can negatively affect soil and vegetation, resulting in I 2. To minimize the negative impact of existing and erosion and land degradation. Reclamation of future developments resulting from human weilsites, trails and roadways is often difficult in activities on water quality and quantity. colian areas because of the potential for erosion. I The effects of increasing land use activity in the 3. To manage the river system on a multiple-use planning area continue to be a concern and must be I basis. monitored. Guidelines Objectives

1. The management of water resources in the 1. To minimize the impact of existing and future I planning area will continue to reflect resource developments and land use activities operational guidelines and administrative on watershed resources in the planning area. I practices established under the Water I 25 I 2. To conserve the inherent capability of the land that out of 22 different activities enjoyed in the through management practices (soil planning area, big game hunting ranked as the fifth conservation and reclamation to minimize most popular with game birds hunting ranking erosion). eleventh. The planning area falls within portions of wildlife management units (WMUs) 507 and 350. 3. To maintain the integrity of the land base in The majority of the planning area is within WMU the area. 507; approximately 20 percent is in WMU 350.

Guidelines Based on the 1989 resident hunter survey conducted by the Fish and Wildlife Division, WMU 507 was Monitoring and evaluation activities will be used 5366 hunter days by 1184 hunters for a harvest undertaken as required to ensure protection of of 188 moose. The area was used by 1682 hunters the land base. over 8341 hunter days for a harvest of 558 white- tailed deer. Male mule deer hunting occurred 1 Restrictions on land use activities will be through the 91 special licences that were available considered on highly sensitive areas. Existing (80 hunters spent 392 days to harvest 14 deer). watershed management guidelines and ground Although 73 elk hunters spent 259 hunter days in rules will be applied to land use and resource the area, no male elk were harvested. Black bear development activities. hunting is permitted for two months in the spring will and three months in the fall, and is proving to be a 3. The inherent capability of the land be popular sport since the legalizing of bear baiting in conserved. Erosion associated with surface 1987. in 1989, a total of 48 black bears were disturbances and vegetation removal will be harvested by 174 hunters spending a total of 705 minimized through conservation and land hunter days. Because game bird hunting data are management techniques. available by zone only and not by wildlife management unit, this information could not be 4. Site-specific reclamation standards will be accurately assessed for the planning area. followed to minimize soil erosion. Appropriate reclamation techniques will be selected based Even though the Athabasca River Sandhills on the capability and intended use of the land. comprises only approximately 15 percent of WMU Reclamation will be included as a condition of 507, it constitutes the majority of available wildlife surface disposition approvals and completed habitat in the unit. These statistics support that this according to provincial standards. area is significant to the recreational hunter and to the local economy.

4.13 Wildlife Resources The other form of consumptive wildlife use involves the commercial and recreational trapping of Discussion furbearers by registered and resident trappers. The area contains four registered traplines. During the The Athabasca River Sandhills planning area 1987-88 trapping season, these accounted for the supports a wide variety of wildlife species. Large harvest of 204 beaver, 193 muskrat, 138 squirrel, 38 mammals include moose, white-tailed deer, mule weasel, 29 coyote, 5 mink and 1 wolf, which deer, black bear and timber wolf with occasional provided the four registered trappers with over sightings of woodland caribou (endangered species), $7,000.00 of additional income. elk and cougar. Furbearers also include coyote, fox, lynx, badger, fisher, mink, weasel, beaver, muskrat The nonconsumptive use of wildlife is popular in the and squirrel. Numerous species of birds and small planning area. Nature viewing and bird watching animals also inhabit the area. ranked eighth and twelfth, respectively, out of the 22 activities identified in the 1988 recreation user Consumptive use of wildlife includes the survey of the planning area. The Barrhead Fish and recreational hunting of big game, upland birds and Game Association has recently been involved with waterfowl. A recreational activity study indicated a wild turkey release program near the Prime

26 I Protection area (Zone 1). In addition, the (b) to increase the elk population to a uses the Athabasca River minimum of 25 animals within the U Sandhills for scientific research on various wildlife Athabasca River valley Zone 2; species. (c) to increase moose densities to 1.5 I The habitat types available in the planning area, aimals/km2 (3.9/sq. mi.) in the Timeu which range from shoreline and riparian meadow Creek and Athabasca River valley zones; complexes to aspen parkland, mixedwood and I boreal forest, offers excellent year-round wildlife (d) to increase mule deer densities to 1.5 habitat. Aerial surveys have repeatedly shown that animals/km (3.9/sq. ml.); the Athabasca River valley is a major staging area for Canada geese, and is also one of the most (e) to maintain white-tailed deer densities at 1 important moose winter ranges in the province. 0.23 animals/km (0.6/sq. mi.); Within the planning area, the most recent aerial survey revealed that at least 85 moose occupied the (0 to maintain the black bear population at 1 river valley, resulting in an overall density of 0.4 per existing levels; square kilometre (1 per square mile). Concentrations of up to 5 per square kilometre (13 (g) to maintain abundant and diverse per square mile) have been documented in the populations of furbearers to contribute to I more inaccessible areas. Although no elkhave been a viable trapping industry in this region; observed during standard aerial surveys, and observations have been reported of up to 12 animals I using the river valley during various times of the (h) to maintain existing populations of upland year. game birds and migratory waterfowl. I The Timeu Creek area (Zone 2, northeast of Timeu 2. To provide a variety of outdoor recreational Creek) provides an excellent variety of wildlife and commercial wildlife opportunities. habitat includes muskeg, willowflat, and pine and aspen ridges. Woodland caribou have been sighted Guidelines I within the area during various times of the year. Caribou habitat comprises muskegs, which provide 1. Disturbance of wildlife populations during arboreal lichens, and pine ridges, which provide sensitive periods (overwintering and calving, I terrestrial lichens. This area represents the most waterfowl nesting and staging) will be southern range of the Slave Lake-Chisholm herd, minimized. which numbers 55-75 animals. To meet provincial objectives of. increasing caribou numbers, the 2. Hunting and trapping regulations will be 1 available habitat will be managed to ensure its reviewed regularly (in relation to hunter use, viability. Aerial surveys of moose reveal densities of harvest levels and game populations) to ensure 0.8 per square kilometre (2 per square mile) and the long-term survival of furbearers and game 1 mule deer densities of 0.6 per square kilometre (1.6 species. per square mile). 3. Hunting and trapping will be permitted in the I Objectives General Recreation Zone (Zone 4), pending a public review before provincial park or 1. To maintain and enhance the number, provincial recreation area designation. distribution and density of regionally significant I wildlife species, including: 4. Fish and Wildlife Division will continue to review and provide input to government (a) to increase the caribou population in the referrals on land use activities that may have a I area of Timeu Creek Zone 2; potential negative impact on wildlife resources. Emphasis will be placed on avoiding negative I impacts on wildlife. Fish and Wildlife will work I 27 I cooperatively with resource users to identify 6.0 PLAN MANAGEMENT and take advantage of opportunities for wildlife habitat enhancement. General administrative procedures and mechanisms required for plan implementation, monitoring and 5. Harassment and habitat destruction around amendment are outlined in this chapter. Detailed important wildlife areas (e.g., mineral licks) will program and project implications resulting from this be minimized. plan will be contained in an implementation document that will complement the plan. 6. Disturbance of wildlife will be reduced by managing access and by controlling bunting activities. 6.1 Gneral Administration

7. Motorized recreation activities will be managed The Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated in the Critical Wildlife Zone (Zone 2) to Resource Plan will be implemented within the terms minimize wildlife and habitat disturbances. of appropriate legislation, regular programs and Access restrictions (e.g., designated trails, activities of the government, operational plans, timing restrictions) will be based on site-specific specific developed projects and referral processes. wildlife concerns and approved through existing Existing Systems for referral and interdepartmental referral processes and the access management review will apply to the plan. Resources will plan. continue to be administered by the departments responsible, according to the approved zoning, resource management direction objectives and guidelines for any pertinent operational plans. 5.0 GREEN AREA/WHITE AREA BOUNDARY CHANGE Participating government management agencies have several responsibilities in ensuring effective Realignment of the Green/White Area boundary delivery of this plan. These include dealing with was proposed during development of the Athabasca conflicts or concerns with respect to River Sandhills plan. The realignment is necessary implementation, or interpretation of any of the to clarify land management responsibilities between plans provisions. The responsibilities are outlined the Public Lands Division and the Alberta Forest below by subject area. Service. Figure 6 shows the proposed realignment of the Green/White Area boundary. The result is Referral Systems: Participating government an increase in the size of the White Area and a resource management agencies will ensure that decrease in the size of the Green Area within the existing referral systems of the Alberta government planning area by about 166 km 2 (64 sq. mi.). The are adequate to encompass all affected or management intent for the converted land will not concerned agencies. change. The Public Lands Act and its associated regulations provide for the management of Plan Monitoring: The Athabasca River Sandhills dispositions on provincial public land. This includes Local Integrated Resource Plan will be reviewed timber on grazing dispositions, regardless of annually by the Eastern Slopes Regional Resource whether the grazing leases are in the Green Area or Management Committee (with input provided by the White Area. Multiple use management interests the Northeast Regional Resource Management on public land within the White Area will still Committee) to: include fish and wildlife, recreation, timber and minerals, and soil and water conservation. • assess the relevancy of the stated resource objectives in light of changing conditions or failure to achieve the stated objectives;

• assess the resource guidelines and referral procedures;

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PROPOSED GREEN AREA BOUNDARY

Tp Planning Area Boundary 0 — — — — Proposed Green Area Boundary 0

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Figure 6. Proposed Green Area/White Area Boundary • assess agency operational plans to ensure their 6.2 Amendment Procedures consistency with the Athabasca River Sancibills resource management area direction, objectives A major plan amendment will be required when and guidelines; and changes are proposed to:

• recommend amendments to the Athabasca • the planning area boundary River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan • primary plan intent and suggest future actions required to maintain • resource management objectives and guidelines or promote government resource management • land use zoning, or activities in the planning area. • other changes that would result in significant revisions to the allowed resource uses or An annual report will be prepared by the Eastern priorities. Slopes Regional Resource Management Committee to outline the previous years activity in the planning An amendment to the plan may be required as a area. The report will also indicate accomplishments result of an annual report, five-year assessment, a anticipated for the planning area during the next major plan review, government requests or a year. The report may be deferred if there is a lack request from an individual, group or organization of activity or progress on government resource outside the government. Proposed amendments to management objectives within the planning area. the Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan from outside the government should On a periodic basis (approximately every five years), be made by formal application. These applications an overall assessment of the plan will be conducted can be directed to the Resource Planning Branch or by the Eastern Slopes Regional Resource to Regional Coordination Services. Guidelines for Management Committee. The five year assessment amendments to integrated resource plans are is a comprehensive review to determine whether the available from the Resource Planning Branch upon plan requires changes and to determine the extent request. of changes required to update the plan. If the plan is found to be no longer current, a major plan Opportunities for public review of proposed review will occur. amendments to the Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan will be provided before A major plan review will be initiated by the Eastern changes are approved by the government. A Slopes Resource Management Committee when a decision on requests to amend an integrated plan becomes outdated because of significant resource plan will be endorsed by the Minister of changes and new priorities. A major plan review Forestry, Lands and Wildlife or his designate. would include: Amendments that entail a major policy decision or a change to the basic intent of the plan may be a comprehensive assessment of all aspects of forwarded by the Minister to the Economic the plan including, but not limited to, resource Planning Cabinet Committee. management objectives and guidelines, and resource management area boundaries, zoning and direction;

a public review similar to the public review involved in the development of new integrated resource plans; and

. a statement recommending amendments to the plan and future actions required to maintain or promote government resource management activities in the planning area.

30 I I Alberta Energy and Natural Resources. 1975. Biophysical Analysis and Evaluation of Capability - Fort 1 Assiniboine. Resource Evaluation and Planning Division. Edmonton. ____• 1976a. A Coal Development Policy for Alberta. Edmonton. I ___• 19761,. Energy Resources Sector - Fort Assiniboine Area. ENR Technical Report No. S. Edmonton. I ___• 1982. Fish and Wildlife Policy for Alberta. Fish and Wildlife Division. Edmonton. ____• 1983. A System for Integrated Resource Planning in Alberta. Resource Evaluation and Planning Division. Edmonton.

1 1984a. A Policy for Resource Management of the Eastern Slopes, Revised 1984. ENR Number T/38. Edmonton. I ___• 1984b. Status of the Fish and Wildlife Resource in Alberta. ENR No. 1/87. Fish and Wildlife Division. Edmonton. I Alberta Forestiy, Lands and Wildlife. 1986. Eolian Landforms of Alberta. Edmonton. 1988a. Athabasca River Sandhills Integrated Resource Inventory and Evaluations. Edmonton. I 1988b. Athabasca River Sandhills Recreation Survey Summary Report. Edmonton. 1989a. Athabasca River Sandhills Local Integrated Resource Plan Terms of Reference. Public Lands I Division. Edmonton. 1989b. Holmes Crossing Proposed Natural Area Biophysical Inventory. Pub. No. T/200. Land I Information Services Division. Edmonton. 1990a. Forest Landscape Management Strategies for Alberta. Pub. No. T/228. Alberta Forest 1 Service. Edmonton. ____• 1990b. Timber Harvesting Planning and Operation Ground Rules. Pub. No. Ref. 23. Alberta Forest I Service. Edmonton. Historical Resources Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta, 1980, Ch. H-8 with amendments in force as of June 5, 1987, Section 33(2). I Cottonwood Consultants LTD. 1990. Environmentally Significant Areas of the County of Barrhead. Produced for the County of Barrhead Agricultural Service Board. Barrbead. I David, P.P. 1977. Sand Dune Occurrences of Canada. Indian and Northern Affairs, National Parks Branch, I #74-230. Ottawa. I I 31 I GLOSSARY

NOTE: All terms in this glossary provide genera] definitions only. Refer to the intent statements, matrix, objectives and guidelines for more specific direction.

Access Management Plan A plan to manage motorized and nonmotorized access in the planning area with participation from concerned government agencies, local authorities and the public. The plan will consist of a network of selected routes or trails for use. The access management plan will address such items as types of vehicles, seasonal use of routes and trails, and limits to motorized recreational access in the area.

Aggregate Any loose unconsolidated surficial material, generally restricted to sand and gravel, but may include days.

Animal Unit Month A measure of forage or feed required to maintain one (AUM) animal unit (i.e., a mature cow of 455 kg [1000 lb.] with or without an unweaned calf for a period of 30 days.

Annual Allowable Cut The total volume of timber that may be harvested in one (AAC) year based on sustained-yield management.

Archaeological Resource "...a work of man that (i) is primarily of value for its prehistoric, historic, cultural or scientific significance, and (ii) is or was buried or partially buried in land in Alberta or submerged beneath the surface of any watercourse or permanent body of water in Alberta. As recognized by Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism. Camping

Primitive An undesignated camping area accessible only by non-motorized means.

Random An undesignated area used for camping that is accessible by any means.

Serviced A major designated camping facility that is directly accessible by designated road or improved road, and which provides significant services such as electricity and pressurized water systems.

Canada Land Inventory Soils in this class have moderately severe (CLI) limitations that restrict the range of crops or require Soils Class 3 special conservation practices.

(CLI) Soils in this class have severe limitations Soils Class 4 that restrict the range of crops or require special conservation practices, or both.

(CLI) Soils in this class have very severe limitations that Soils Class 5 restrict their capability to produce perennial forage crops; however, improvement practices are feasible.

(CLI) Soils in this class are capable of producing only Soils Class 6 perennial forage crops, and improvement practices are not feasible.

(CLI) Soils in this class have no capability for crop use Soils Class 7 or permanent pasture.

32 I Carrying Capacity The maximum number of animals that can graze annually (range) on a given range for a specific period of time, without inducing a downward trend in forage I production, forage quality or soil. ICommercial Development All activities and infrastructure associated with the development of facilities for the • general public, including fixed-roof recreation accommodations such as for hunting, fishing and skiing, and backcountry lodges; hotels, motels, apartments, townhouses, • cottages and commercial recreation activities involving facilities such as ski hills and golf courses, whether they are owned and/or operated by the public or private sectors.

Commercial Tourism and An interdepartmental referral process coordinated by Alberta Forestry, Lands and • Recreation Leasing Wildlife in conjunction with Alberta Tourism to review commercial recreation or (CTRL) tourism development proposals involving the leasing of public land.

Consumptive Use Those uses of resources that directly reduce the supply, such as hunting, logging 1 and mining. Conversely, non-consumptive use does not directly reduce the supply, such as wildlife viewing. I Critical Habitat Habitat that is crucial to the size, distribution or stability of a wildlife or fish population. Loss of such habitat would result in a drastic decline or local extirpation of a population. I Cultivation Agricultural practices associated with preparing the soil for raising annual and/or forage crops.

Disposition A disposition i5 the authority granted by the Alberta Government to use public I land for the purposes stated in the lease document. They may be long term, as used with the sale of land, or may be more short term as when rights to particular lands or resources, either surface or subsurface, are granted for a finite period of I time. The most common uses of disposition are sale, lease, licence, permit or agreement.

Domestic Grazing All activities associated with the production and use of forage for domestic I livestock, including range improvement (Eastern Slopes Policy Activity Definitions).

I Ecoregion An ecoregion is an area characterized by a distinctive regional climate as expressed by vegetation. (Subcommittee on Biophysical Land Classification 1969).

Eolian Deposits Surface material transported and deposited by the wind. I Forage All browse and non-woody plants that are available to livestock or wildlife. I Forest Management Unit An area of forest land located in the Green Area of the province, designated by the Department of Forestry, Lands and Wildlife as an area to be managed for sustained timber yield. Forest Management Units are established by the Minister. I Forest Protection Area Those lands in the Province of Alberta for which the Alberta Forest Service of Alberta Forestry, Lands and Wildlife is responsible for providing forest protection. These lands are determined by Order-in-Council, under the Forest and Prairie I Protection Act,(Chapter F-14, Revised Statutes of Alberta, 1980). I I 33 I Grazing Lease Disposition area on public land which is suitable for the grazing of livestock. (GRL) Leases are legislated under the Public Lands Act (RSA 1980, P-30) and are issued for public land in the Green Area and White Area outside the Forest Reserve, usually for a term of 5 or 10 years. The lease allows the lessee exclusive use of the land for grazing.

Green Area The Green Area, established in 1948 by Alberta Order in Council 213/48, consists of the nonsettled forest lands and covers approximately 53 per cent of the total area of the Province of Alberta. Public land in the Green Area is managed primarily for forest production, watershed protection, fish and wildlife resources, recreation and other multiple uses. Permanent settlement, except on legally subdivided lands, as well as agricultural uses other than grazing, are excluded (Alberta Public Lands LAlberta 1981a]).

Historic Resource .any work of nature or of man that is primarily of value for its palaeontological, archaeological, prehistoric, historic, cultural, natural, scientific or aesthetic interest including, but not Limited to, a palacontological, archaeological, prehistoric, historic, or natural site, structure or object. As recognized by Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism.

Historic Site ...any site which includes or is comprised of an historical resource of an immovable nature or which cannot be disassociated from its context without destroying some or all of its value as an historical resource and includes a prehistoric, historic or natural Site or structure. As recognized by Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism.

Historical Resources Projects normally instituted in conjunction with assessment development programs Impact Assessment that are anticipated to cause ground surface disturbance within the Province of Alberta. The objectives of such projects are to locate all historical resource sites to be affected by the development program, to evaluate the worth of such sites relative to Alberta historical resources as a whole, to determine the nature of the impact of the development program on individual sites, and to propose conservation procedures for those sites to be affected by the development (Interim Guidelines).

Improved Range Grazing lands that have had productivity enhanced by clearing and establishing tame forage and/or by various range maintenance projects such as brush regrowth control, cross-fencing, drainage, etc.

Industrial Development All activities and infrastructure associated with the development of an industrial base to accommodate the extraction, removal and processing of resources.

Intensive Recreation High-density recreation use such as developed camping and picnic grounds, swimming beaches, ski hills, sky trams, golf courses and other sites or areas requiring continuous recreation management and other services to maintain the recreation opportunities.

Local Timber Permit As authorized by the Timber Management Regulations, a permit issued normally (LTP) to local residents that allows for the cutting of timber to a maximum of 750 m3 coniferous or 1500 m3 deciduous, which expires on April 30 of any year, unless otherwise specified in the permit.

34 I Miscellaneous Timber Land set aside within a forest management unit to provide timber for local use. I (MTU) The area represents a portion of the annual allowable cut for that forest management unit. Timber is allocated and authorized for use through Local Timber Permits (LTPs) or Commercial Timber Permits (CTPs). 1 Natural Areas One type of legislatively protected area in Alberta, set aside by Alberta Forestry, Lands and Wildlife under the authority of the Wilderness Areas, Ecological Reserves and Natural Areas Act. Natural Areas have, as their primary objective, I the maintenance of their natural features while allowing for appropriate public use. Off-Highway Vehicle Motorized vehicle used for cross-country travel on land, water or snow, including (OHV) four-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, track vehicles, snow vehicles, but not I motorboats (Off-highway Vehicle Act, RSA 1980, c. 0-4). Operating Ground Rules Standard ground rules employed by the Alberta Forest Service to guide timber harvesting. These are intended to both protect the environmental quality and 1 promote the growth of timber. Palaeontological ...a work of nature consisting of or containing evidence of extinct multicellular I beings and includes those works of nature or classes of works of nature designated by the regulations as palaeontological resources. As recognized by Alberta Culture and Multiculturalism. I Parabolic Sand Dune A long, scoop-shaped sand dune having a ground plan approximating the form of a parabola, with the horns pointing windward (upwind). Also known as a blowout I dune. Protective Notation This imposes a restriction on land use usually due to specific natural features of (PNT) the land. Natural features include any naturally occurring characteristics related to landform, soil type or vegetative characteristics. I A PNT may imply either an indefinite land use restriction, or a restriction that may be subject to change over Lime. More than one agency may register a PNT; however, the most restrictive notation will determine the permitted land use.

I Public Land Land vested in the Crown in the right of Alberta, which includes title to the beds and shores of all rivers, streams, water courses, lakes and other bodies of water. All public land is under the administration of the Minister of Forestry, Lands and I Wildlife (Public Lands Act, RSA P-30, 1980) unless otherwise specified by any other Act or an order. of the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

Reclamation The act of restoring land to a state similar to that which existed prior to I disturbance. This includes all phases of debris disposal; establishing a self- sustaining vegetative cover to stabilize disturbed soil; reclaiming the land to an environment that is consistent to the region in land forms, vegetative patterns and I hydrology; and reconstituting the land to a productivity at least comparable to the original undisturbed condition.

Referral System The Alberta Government has established formal mechanisms for the internal I review of land use applications originating from within itself and the private sector. Government management agencies concerned or affected by the provisions of an application participate in its review. Subsequent to the review, each management I agency files its recommendation for the approval or rejection of the application. These positions are coordinated by a lead agency (i.e., one window approach) I which, in turn, provides the proponent with a comprehensive decision. I 35 I I Regional Resource A group of regional directors representing each of the involved divisions of Management Committee Alberta Forestry, Lands and Wildlife and other government agency representatives (RRMC) with public land and resource related interests. The RRMC reviews planning I documents and has the primary responsibility for the implementation stage of the planning process. I Reservation System An administrative system of FLW used to identify and record, on the departments Land Status Automated System, any special interests of a government agency in the management of specified parcels of public land. Reservations can range from preservation to Site development. I Riparian Habitat A vegetation zone influenced by groundwater, sub-irrigation (areas where a high- water table reaches and/or saturates the root zone) or surface water, and which I provides important habitat for fish, waterfowl and a variety of wildlife species. This vegetation is often a transition zone between aquatic and upland terrestrial habitat. I Salvage Cutting Cleanup operations to collect merchantable material too small to be handled economically with big equipment, or to remove dead, downed, injured or threatened trees before such timber becomes unmerchantable. I Sanitation Cutting Timber cutting to remove dead, diseased, infested, damaged or susceptible trees to reduce or prevent the spread of insects or pathogens. 1 Sustained-Yield The balancing of timber growth and harvesting to ensure continued forest Timber Management productivity at a given level of management without impairing the productivity of the land. I Transverse Sand Dune A sand dune with a nearly straight ridge crest formed by the merger of crescentic dunes; elongated at right angles to the direction of prevailing winds, with a gentle windward slope and a steep leeward slope. I Use Respect Program A program sponsored by the Fish and Wildlife Division through which landowners or leaseholders post USE RESPECT signs on their property. These are to inform recreationists as to whether they can use the land, if permission is required for I access or motorized vehicles, who should be contacted for permission, and if there is a designated vehicle route system. I White Area The White Area is the region of the province settled initially, and includes nearly one third of the total area of Alberta. Available public land in this region, which is suitable for settlement and agriculture and not required for other multiple uses such as soil and water conservation, deciduous and coniferous timber production, I fisheries and wildlife habitat protection or recreational uses, may be applied for pursuant to the Public Lands Act (RSA 1980, P-30). I Wildfire An unplanned or unwanted natural or man-caused fire.

Wildlife Management The main geographical reference used for wildlife management in Alberta is the Unit Wildlife Management Unit. These areas are designated in the Wildlife Act I (RSA,1980) for the purpose of administration. I I 36 I I