9 Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands

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Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands

Vegetation and wetlands are a valued environmental component (VEC), as these natural resources are a critical component of the landscape and play a fundamental role in the functioning of natural ecosystems. Changes in the distribution and occurrence of vegetation, including wetlands vegetation, and associated diversity might alter ecosystem function and have a negative effect on environmental cycles and the ability of other organisms, including humans, to use and benefit from this natural resource. As well, changes in vegetation and wetlands could affect other VECs, including wildlife and wildlife habitat and land use. This section of the ESA provides an assessment of predicted effects on vegetation and wetlands, as a result of the Project. Construction and operations phases of the Project will involve activities that can have potential direct or indirect effects on vegetation and wetlands. These effects might result in changes in measurable parameters associated with vegetation landscape, community or species diversity.

9.1 Temporal and Spatial Boundaries

9.1.1 Temporal Boundaries for Vegetation and Wetlands The temporal boundaries used for the assessment include:  baseline;  construction; and  operations.

9.1.2 Spatial Boundaries for Vegetation and Wetlands

9.1.2.1 Project Development Area for Vegetation and Wetlands The construction pipeline RoW is generally proposed to be 32-m wide. In native prairie, measures will be put in place to minimize disturbance, where practical. Additional temporary workspace might be required in areas of three-lift soil handling, grading, watercourse, road and foreign-line crossings. Areas of additional temporary workspace will be identified closer to construction. Pump station sites are assumed to be about 2.5 ha in area and the Hardisty B Terminal footprint is anticipated to cover an area of about 16 ha. Valve sites will be situated in the boundaries of the pipeline RoW. The project development area (PDA) is used to quantify and assess project effects on vegetation and wetlands at a site-specific scale. Analysis of the affected PDA areas assumes a disturbance of the full (32 m) RoW. The analysis is presented on a linear distance basis (i.e., length of pipe) for pipeline RoW and spatial areas for mainline pump stations and the Hardisty B Terminal.

9.1.2.2 Local Assessment Area for Vegetation and Wetlands The local assessment area (LAA) is the area in which environmental effects can be predicted with a reasonable degree of accuracy and confidence and where effects are likely to be most concentrated. Project environmental effects include direct effects associated with fragmentation and loss of vegetation

Page 9-1 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands and wetlands in the project footprint (e.g., site-specific environmental effects). In addition, vegetation control measures associated with reclamation, prevention of introduction and spread of weed and invasive non-native species, and maintenance of woody vegetation might affect vegetation and wetlands. The LAA is a 200-m wide area, centred on the RoW, and includes the PDA.

9.1.2.3 Regional Assessment Area for Vegetation and Wetlands The regional assessment area (RAA) is a much broader area in which project environmental effects might be more wide reaching, depending on the measureable parameter. The definition of the RAA takes into consideration factors such as:  the area in which there is potential for environmental effects from the Project to interact with similar environmental effects from other projects or human activities;  provincially and federally recognized natural ecoregions and subregions where distinct assemblages of vegetation and wetlands species and communities occur in relation to differing environmental conditions; and  administrative (i.e., provincial) boundaries that define provincial and federal regulatory requirements. The RAA is a 30-km corridor centreed on the PDA. Qualitative consideration of vegetation cover class is divided by provincial and natural subregion boundaries traversed by the Project. The RAA is used to assess effects of the Project at the regional scale, where applicable, in addition to cumulative effects.

9.1.3 Administrative and Technical Boundaries for Vegetation and Wetlands Rare community and species occurrences from the Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre (ANHIC) maintained by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation, and rare species occurrences from the Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre (CDC) were obtained to aid field survey planning and the environmental assessment. For the vegetation and wetlands component of the ESA, data collected (in 2006 and 2007) for the existing Keystone Pipeline project were used where the Project is contiguous with the existing Keystone RoW. As such, vegetation surveys were only conducted in Alberta where the Project was not contiguous with the existing Keystone ROW, specifically from Hardisty to Gooseberry Lake and from the eastern end of the Remount Pasture to Monchy, Saskatchewan. Some surveys were done in parallel sections from north of the of the Red Deer River to the Remount Pasture because of the higher rare plant and rare ecological community potential at those locations. Limitations on land access in some areas of the RoW prevented surveys from occurring in the specified survey window. These missed sections, as well as sections along the existing Keystone Pipeline project known to have historical occurrences of species of management concern, will be surveyed in 2009 to determine site-specific mitigation measures.

9.2 Scope of Assessment for Vegetation and Wetlands

9.2.1 Regulatory Setting The scope of the assessment for vegetation is based on CEAA Section 16(1) and the NEB Filing Manual (2008). The filing manual, guide A.2, (Tables A-3, A-4) provided further guidance on the scope of the assessment for vegetation, specifically related to vegetation communities in non-cultivated lands, wetlands and species of risk or species of management concern. In the case of the vegetation assessment, the NEB Filing Manual requirements were used to help focus the assessment on areas of

February 2009 Page 9-2 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands native vegetation, rare plants and rare ecological communities, species at risk or of management concern, and potential effects on wetlands.

9.2.2 Key Issues and Interactions for Vegetation and Wetlands The primary focus of the vegetation and wetlands component of the ESA is areas of native vegetation and wetlands that occur along the Project pipeline route. Potential effects of the Project on vegetation and wetlands are as follows:  fragmentation of patches and large tracts of dominantly native vegetation as a result of construction;  loss or alteration of vegetation and wetlands communities and species as a result of construction;  introduction and spread of non-native and invasive species;  alteration of vegetation and wetland communities and species resulting from changes in shallow and surface water conditions generated during construction;  alteration of vegetation and wetlands communities and species resulting from control of undesirable species during operations (i.e., weeds and woody vegetation); and  effects on vegetation and wetlands from the potential introduction and spread of non-native and invasive species during construction and operations. For a detailed list of project interactions and associated environmental effects on vegetation and wetlands, see Tables 9-1 and 9-2, respectively.

Table 9-1 Interaction of the Project with Vegetation and Wetlands

Project Description Project Activities and Physical Works Reference for Activity Rating Construction and Commissioning Pipeline construction (clearing, topsoil stripping, grading, RoW preparation has the 2 trenching, watercourse crossings, stringing pipe, potential to adversely affect welding, lowering in, backfilling, hydrostatic vegetation and wetlands testing, mainline valve installation, cleanup and final reclamation) Hardisty B Terminal construction (clearing, topsoil Site preparation has the 2 stripping, grading, road construction, piling, potential to adversely affect infrastructure, commissioning, cleanup and interim vegetation and wetlands reclamation)

Construction of pump stations (clearing, topsoil Site preparation has the 2 stripping, grading, road construction, piling, potential to adversely affect infrastructure, commissioning, cleanup and interim vegetation and wetlands reclamation)

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Table 9-1 Interaction of the Project with Vegetation and Wetlands (cont’d)

Project Description Project Activities and Physical Works Reference for Activity Rating Operations Operation and maintenance of the Hardisty B Terminal Industrial site – no further 0 effects Operation and maintenance of the mainline pump Industrial site – no further 0 stations effects Operation and maintenance of the pipeline Operations and maintenance 1 will involve re-establishment success of approved species, management of weeds, invasive non-native species and woody re- growth on parts of the RoW. Accidents and Malfunctions1 Decommissioning and Abandonment2 Interaction with Other Physical Works and Activities Keystone pipeline (Alberta section from Hardisty Only where the Project is  to McNeil – construction 2008–2009) contiguous with the Keystone project, as it might disturb Keystone reclamation efforts

NOTES: 0 = No interaction 1 = Either:  interaction occurs; however, based on past experience and professional judgement, the interaction would not result in a significant environmental effect, even without mitigation  interaction would not be significant because of application of codified environmental protection practices that are known to effectively mitigate the predicted environmental effects 2 = Interaction could result in an environmental effect of concern, even with mitigation. The potential environmental effects are considered further in the environmental assessment.  = Indicates cumulative environmental effects potential, which is the potential to interact with project environmental effects. Cumulative effects are ranked in the project effects matrix included in Section 7. 1 Accidents, malfunctions and unplanned events are assessed separate from the routine project effects assessment (see Section 21). 2If decommissioning of the Project is required at some point in the future, and if that activity is not exempted from prior Board approval under the Decommissioning Exemption Order (XG/XO-100-2008), an application, pursuant to Section 44 of the OPR will be required. Likewise, if abandonment of the project facility is proposed in the future, an application will be required under Section 74 of the NEB Act.

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Table 9-2 Potential Environmental Effects of Project on Vegetation and Wetlands

Potential Environmental Effects Changes to Changes to Changes to Landscape Community Species Project Activities and Physical Works1 Diversity Diversity Diversity Construction and Commissioning Pipeline construction (clearing, grading, trenching,    watercourse crossings, strung pipe, lowering, backfill, hydrostatic testing, block valve install, cleanup, final reclamation). Hardisty B Terminal construction (clearing, grading, soil    savage, road construction, piling, tank/pump/infrastructure, commissioning, cleanup, interim reclamation). Pump station construction (clearing, grading, soil    savage, road construction, piling, tank/pump/infrastructure, commissioning, cleanup, interim reclamation). Interaction with Other Physical Works and Activities Keystone pipeline (Alberta section from Hardisty 1 1 to McNeil – construction 2008–2009) NOTES: Project Environmental Effects Only Project – Environment interactions ranked as 2 in Table 9-1 are carried forward to this Table. A checkmark () indicates that an activity is likely to contribute to the environmental effect. Cumulative Environmental Effects Cumulative environmental effects were ranked as follows: 0 Project environmental effects do not act cumulatively with those of other physical works and other activities 1 Project environmental effects act cumulatively with those of other physical works and other activities, but are unlikely to result in significant cumulative environmental effects OR project environmental effects act cumulatively with existing significant levels of cumulative environmental effects but will not measurably change the state of the VEC 2 Project environmental effects act cumulatively with those of other physical works and other activities and might result in significant cumulative environmental effects OR project environmental effects act cumulatively with existing significant levels of cumulative environmental effects and might measurably change the state of the VEC 1 Accidents, malfunctions and unplanned events are assessed separate from the routine project effects assessment (see Section 21).

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In determining potential effects of project interactions on vegetation and wetlands, the project activities were evaluated based on the following:  the interaction might cause a measurable change in the VEC or has an identified regulatory threshold, or both that might be exceeded by project development (construction or operations, or both);  the interaction might affect the persistence or viability of the VEC in the regional assessment area;  the interaction might persist beyond restoration of ground cover (revegetation) or beyond the life of the Project;  the project development might not able to adhere to recommended mitigation practices that would minimize effects on the VEC, even if project effects are believed to be not significant (i.e., preferred timing for construction in native prairie areas [unless agreed to and signed off by regulators]); and  the interaction might act cumulatively and is prevalent in the RAA and is of concern to the VEC from a regulatory agency perspective. Based on this review and knowledge of the Project and its associated activities, Project interactions with vegetation and wetlands were ranked (see Table 9-1 and Section 7). During construction of the pipeline, Hardisty B Terminal and mainline pump stations, vegetation clearing might result in the fragmentation and direct loss of native vegetation. Fragmentation and direct loss of native vegetation might be temporary in nature where reclamation to native vegetation and wetlands conditions is the target. However, for some measureable parameters, such as rare ecological communities and rare plant species, where reclamation success is unknown or not proven, effects might be permanent. Vegetation and wetlands might also be potentially altered by the introduction and spread of weeds and invasive non-native species as a result of pipeline construction and operations. These construction-related activities were rated as a 2 and are carried forward for further assessment. For the purposes of this assessment, the following project-specific effects are addressed in further detail in the Project Effects Assessment (see Section 9.4):  changes to landscape diversity - fragmentation of remaining large tracts of native prairie;  changes to community diversity – direct loss or alteration of native vegetation and wetlands, including rare ecological communities; and  changes to species diversity – direct loss of rare species or alterations to their populations and increased presence of weeds and invasive non-native species. Operation and maintenance of the pipeline might require vegetation management at some areas along the RoW to maintain visibility for pipeline monitoring and for control of noxious and invasive non-native species. Trees and shrubs might be allowed to encroach within 5 m of either side of the operational line. Control of woody vegetation might potentially alter vegetation and wetlands diversity. Vegetation and wetlands might also be potentially altered as a result of vegetation management activities to control the spread of invasive non-native species during operations. However, vegetation management will be localized, short term and reversible, and effects can be mitigated through application of best management practices. Therefore, based on professional judgment and past experience, potential effects are not considered significant, and were rated as 1 and not further assessed. Changes to shallow and surface groundwater flow as a result of construction were not assessed, as effects are not anticipated in most dry upland areas. Wetlands and riparian areas are the most susceptible; however, effects will be mitigated through proper construction practices and ensured through post-construction monitoring. Potential effects are not predictable or measurable.

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With the exception of accidents, malfunctions and unplanned events (see Section 21) operations and maintenance of the Hardisty B Terminal and mainline pump stations will have no interaction with native vegetation or wetlands because the Hardisty B Terminal and mainline pump stations will be industrial sites with gravelled yards and will not have any direct effects on native vegetation or wetlands. Therefore, these were ranked as a 0 and not further assessed. See Table 9-2 for the potential environmental effects associated with the main activities and physical works associated with the Project.

9.2.3 Selection of Measurable Parameters for Vegetation and Wetlands To focus the assessment, measurable parameters associated with three levels of vegetation diversity were chosen to represent the effects on vegetation and wetlands:  landscape diversity – large tracts of native vegetation  community diversity – Grassland Vegetation Inventory (GVI) land units (including uplands, wetlands and riparian areas) and rare ecological communities  species diversity – rare plants and weeds and invasive non-native species Measurable parameters were selected based on the NEB Filing Manual, professional judgment and past project experience. For a summary of the rationale for the selection of the measurable parameters, see Table 9-3.

Table 9-3 Measurable Parameters for Vegetation and Wetlands

Rationale for Inclusion of Measurable Rationale for Selection Environmental the Environmental Effect in Parameter(s) for the of the Measurable Effect the Assessment1 Environmental Effect Parameter1 Changes to Pipeline, Hardisty B Terminal Identification of large Large tracts of native Landscape and mainline pump station tracts of native prairie prairie are uncommon Diversity construction might result in and fragmentation can fragmentation of large tracts result in a reduction or native vegetation loss of landscape diversity Changes to Pipeline, Hardisty B Terminal GVI land units (including Native upland Community and mainline pump station native uplands, wetlands, communities, wetlands Diversity construction might result in riparian and and riparian areas the direct loss or reduction of anthropogenic areas) support relatively distinct native vegetation species and the loss or communities reduction of these areas might alter community diversity Identification of rare Direct loss of rare ecological communities ecological communities could lead to a reduction in community diversity

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Table 9-3 Measurable Parameters for Vegetation and Wetlands (cont’d)

NOTE: 1 Includes input from consultation with regulators, Aboriginal organizations, affected Stakeholder and the public, as well as EA guidelines, other regulatory drivers, policies and/or programs.

9.2.3.1 Large Tracts of Native Vegetation Although native vegetation along the Project has been affected by agriculture, industry, transportation, urban and rural development, as well as oil and gas development (Alberta Environmental Protection 1997a, 1997b), there are a number of large tracts of native vegetation remaining. Often, these are in areas where cultivation was limited because of terrain or soil conditions or because the land was put under reserve as grazing areas.

9.2.3.2 GVI Land Units Effects of the Project on GVI land units and associated vegetation types might result in the reduction or loss of vegetation and wetlands community diversity. GVI land units identify:  native prairie uplands;  wetlands;  riparian areas; and  agricultural and other anthropogenically disturbed areas. These units were selected as they support relatively distinct species and changes in the abundance of these units might alter ecosystem function. Changes in community diversity might also influence resource use, wildlife health, wildlife habitat and land uses. Effects on these parameters might occur through direct loss or vegetation management.

9.2.3.3 Rare Ecological Communities Rare ecological communities are natural communities that are unusual, uncommon, of limited extent, encountered infrequently, in decline or threatened (Allen 2006). Each community is composed of species that respond similarly to a variety of site attributes (Allen 2006), such as moisture, nutrient regime, climate, slope and aspect. The communities themselves might be uncommon on the landscape or peripheral in Alberta or Saskatchewan. Some species in a rare ecological community might also be rare, but most are common within their range – it is the assemblage that is rare. Ecological communities are tracked in Alberta (Allen 2006). Rare communities are not defined for Saskatchewan and, as such, tracked communities from Alberta are used

February 2009 Page 9-8 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands for Saskatchewan and, for the purpose of this assessment, are defined as special ecological communities. Rare ecological communities are vulnerable because of their limited range and their reliance on specific environmental variables and historic events, most of which are not understood. These communities can be altered through clearing, ground disturbance, alterations to surface or shallow groundwater, air emissions, weed control or invasion of non-native species.

9.2.3.4 Rare Plants Rare plants are species that exist in small numbers or have a limited global or provincial distribution (Lancaster 2000). Rare plants are ranked both globally and provincially, indicating their relative rarity. Rare plant lists exist at both the federal (SARA) and provincial level. In Alberta, rare species are listed on ANHIC tracking and watch lists. Species ranked S1 to S2/S3 are included on ANHIC’s tracking list. Additional species, for which ANHIC recommends more information be collected, are placed on watch lists. Species included on watch lists have S3 and S3/S4 ranks. In Saskatchewan, rare species are listed on the CDC tracking list which, unlike ANHIC, lists all species of concern and does not isolate those of lesser concern to a watch list.

9.2.3.5 Weeds and Invasive Non-Native Species Weeds are regulated by the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Invasive non-native species are agronomic species, typically introduced as forage or replacement ground cover. Weeds and invasive non- native species are species that out-compete native species for presence on the landscape. They can be distributed by construction activities and are opportunistic, such that where ground cover is disturbed, they can establish themselves quickly. In areas where they already exist, the population can spread easily, readily invading disturbed and undisturbed areas.

9.2.4 Residual Environmental Effects Rating Criteria for Vegetation and Wetlands The following criteria were used to assess residual environmental effects:  Direction: the expected long-term trend of the environmental effect (e.g., positive or negative);  Magnitude: a qualitative assessment of the expected change in a measurable parameter or variable relative to baseline case (i.e., low, moderate, high);  Geographical extent: the geographic area in which an environmental effect of a defined magnitude is expected to occurs – site-specific (PDA), local (LAA), regional (RAA);  Frequency: the number of times during a project or a specific project phase that an environmental effect might occur (i.e., once, sporadically, regular, continuous);  Duration: the period of time that is required until the vegetation and wetlands VEC returns to its baseline condition or the environmental effect can no longer be measured or otherwise perceived (i.e., short term, medium term, long term, permanent);  Reversibility: the likelihood that a measurable parameter for the vegetation and wetlands VEC will recover from an environmental effect (i.e., reversible, irreversible); and  Environmental context: the general characteristics of the area in which the project is located (i.e., undisturbed, disturbed). For further descriptions, including a breakdown of each criterion, see Section 9.4.

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9.2.5 Standards or Thresholds for Determining Significance for Vegetation and Wetlands There are limited regulatory standards or thresholds in place to guide the determination of significance of effects on vegetation and wetlands. Federal guidance is provided by the Set-back Distance and Timing Restrictions Guideline for prairie plant species at risk, and the federal Wetland Policy that is based on the principal of no net loss of wetland function. In Alberta, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) issued interim operational guidelines that leverage off a federal SARA plant species guidance document. The ASRD interim guidelines state the following:

“Operational Approach to the application of the interim and draft "Set-back distance and timing restriction guidelines: Prairie Plant Species at Risk"

No new Class 3 activities (see Henderson vers. 3, May 2, 2007) within 300 m of an endangered or threatened plant species (as listed in Schedule 6 of the Alberta Wildlife Regulations, and including all plant species that occur in Alberta and listed in Schedule 1 of the Species At Risk Act) unless utilizing existing similar disturbance. The following restrictions apply:

1.) no land expansion from current disposition (e.g. if within 300 m but using an existing developed area, then new activities within that area can occur as long as the area is not increased in size from current situation/disturbance/infrastructure)

2.) no activity within 30 m of an individual plant within the existing footprint; and

3.) monitoring required (protocol to follow).”

The draft federal guidelines for set-back distances for plant species at risk (Henderson 2007) recommend a set-back distance of 300 m from known locations for Class 3 disturbances (which include pipelines), to reduce effects that might cause “mortality, reduce competitive ability or reproductive output over time, or reduce the quality of habitat necessary for recolonization should the species temporarily disappear from the site due to natural succession”. Resource managers are being encouraged to use these guidance documents in their decision-making process. For wetlands, there is an Alberta Wetland Policy and guideline that provides guidance on whether an approval or notification is required under the Alberta Water Act. For pipeline construction, a notification is required, as the potential effects are considered temporary and reversible, whereas a development that in-fills or permanently alters a wetland might require an approval under the Water Act. Compensation might be required for permanent alteration of wetlands. In Saskatchewan, although there are no written regulatory standards, it is reasonable for the purposes of this assessment to treat the VEC with the same standards of assessment for Saskatchewan and Alberta. The remainder of the parameters selected for evaluation in the vegetation and wetlands VEC are evaluated by consideration of the effects on vegetation and wetlands in relation to changes to landscape, community and species diversity at regional and local scales.

9.2.6 Influence of Consultation on the Assessment Consultation for the vegetation and wetland VEC was with regulatory agency personnel and primarily focused on the regulatory expectations for vegetation field survey requirements (wetlands, rare plants and SARA-listed species). The regulatory environment of these issues is rapidly evolving. Previous experience with recent, similarly sized pipeline projects also guided the assessment.

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Traditional knowledge studies are ongoing and will be completed in 2009. Data from these studies could affect the mitigation measures recommended to avoid or minimize potential environmental effects on vegetation and wetlands. For more details on the consultation program, see Section 3.

9.3 Baseline Conditions for Vegetation and Wetlands The following is a summary of the baseline conditions. For more detail, see Appendix 9A.

9.3.1 Summary of Previous Work and Gap Analysis Before undertaking field surveys for the Project, historical data, provincial databases, literature and previous pipeline project reports (including the existing Keystone Pipeline project) were reviewed. Field programs were then structured to focus on areas of native vegetation where information was not available (i.e., segments of the RoW not contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project).

9.3.2 Approach and Methods Field surveys were done on the RoW, Hardisty B Terminal site and mainline pump station sites in areas of native vegetation in both Alberta and Saskatchewan. Field surveys were done at intervals between June 15th and August 30th, to capture a range of flowering and seeding times. Field survey sites were chosen to include all major vegetation and wetlands types along the Project. Vegetation and wetlands associated with uncommon landscape features (i.e., Great Sand Hills and river valleys) were also sampled. A typical site survey included site and vegetation characterization. For wetland characterization, wet soil indicators were also recorded. Field surveys identified communities and species of management concern including rare plants, weed and invasive non-native species, and rare ecological communities.

9.3.3 Overview of Baseline Conditions for Vegetation and Wetlands

9.3.3.1 Landscape Diversity The Project intersects a number of natural regions or ecozones and subregions or ecoregions, each of which is characterized by different assemblages of vegetation species. In Alberta, the Project crosses the Central Parkland Subregion of the Parkland Natural Region, as well as the Northern Fescue Subregion and the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion of the Grassland Natural Region. In Saskatchewan, the Project crosses the Cypress Upland Ecoregion and the Mixed Grassland Ecoregion of the Prairie Ecozone. The Dry Mixedgrass Subregion of Alberta generally corresponds to the Mixed Grassland Ecoregion of Saskatchewan. While no provincial or federally protected areas are intersected by the Project, there are areas that have been identified as having high ecological value; specifically:  large blocks of native grassland;  landscapes that support high diversity; and  excellent examples of specific landscape features. In Alberta, areas of high ecological value are termed environmentally significant areas (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997). Environmentally significant areas are defined as areas vital to the long-term maintenance of biological diversity, soil, water or other natural processes at a local and regional level. The Alberta government has not developed or implemented any management guidelines for operating procedures for any of the areas. Consequently, there are no rules to follow and the proponent works with

Page 9-11 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands regulatory agencies to develop suitable mitigation and management practices for any activities in an environmentally significant area. Ten environmentally significant areas are intersected by the Project, four of which are identified as having national value, and six of which are identified as having provincial value. In Saskatchewan, no comparable designation exists; however, for the purposes of this assessment, six locations have been identified as having high ecological value, using the environmentally significant area designation criteria together with consideration for large blocks of native prairie.

9.3.3.2 Community Diversity In Alberta, the RoW is 265 km of which 40.2 km is non-contiguous. Native upland vegetation, as well as riparian areas and wetlands cover about 137.7 km (61%) of the contiguous portion of the RoW and 28.1 km (70%) of the non-contiguous portion. The mainline pump stations in Alberta and the Hardisty B Terminal are sited largely on cropland, though small pockets of native upland are present on pump station sitesLakesend east and the Hardisty B terminal. No historical occurrences of rare ecological communities are known for the LAA. In Saskatchewan, the RoW is 259 km of which 8.7 km is non-contiguous. Native upland vegetation, as well as riparian areas and wetlands, cover approximately 108.6 km (43.4%) of the contiguous portion of the RoW and 2.56 km (29.43%) of the non-contiguous portion. Mainline pump stations in Saskatchewan are sited largely on cropland. Nine rare ecological communities at 26 locations were identified along the Project in Alberta. Of these 26 locations, 19 were previously identified in the work done for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Fifteen rare ecological communities (as defined in Alberta) at 27 locations were identified along the Project in Saskatchewan. No rare ecological communities were found at the Hardisty B Terminal or any mainline pump station locations in either Alberta or Saskatchewan. No historical rare ecological communities are known for the LAA.

9.3.3.3 Species Diversity Seventeen rare plants at 59 locations were identified during baseline studies in Alberta. Of these, one species, Halimolobos virgata (Slender mouse-ear-cress) is listed under Schedule 1 of SARA. Slender mouse-ear-cress was found at five locations. Cryptantha minima (Tiny Cryptanthe), also on the Schedule 1 SARA list, was found at 13 locations during surveys for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. These locations were not resurveyed for the Project because of land access restrictions; however, they are near sections where the Project runs parallel to the existing Keystone Project. An additional three rare plants at four locations were historically identified in the LAA in provincial databases. Nineteen rare plants at 64 locations were identified during baseline studies in Saskatchewan. Of these, none were listed under SARA. An additional 14 rare plants at 30 locations were historically identified in the LAA in provincial databases, including the SARA-listed species smooth arid goosefoot (Chenopodium subglabrum). Due to the amount of anthropogenic disturbance throughout much of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, weeds and invasive non-native species were found at numerous locations. While no restricted weeds were noted in Alberta, five noxious and 14 nuisance species were observed. In Saskatchewan, where only noxious weeds are listed, 11 species were found.

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9.4 Project Environmental Effects Assessment for Vegetation and Wetlands The following assumptions are inherent in the assessment of effects on vegetation and wetlands.

Ecological Linkages An ecosystem-based management approach was used to assess project effects on vegetation and wetlands. This approach was guided by the assumption that vegetation species and assemblages of those species (vegetation types) differ as a function of ecosystem components. Some ecosystem components that are important for vegetation include climate, landform, topography, soil type and water quantity and quality. Characteristic assemblages of species in the landscape can be classified into vegetation types that are generally recognizable at the landscape scale. Vegetation types recognizable at the landscape scale can be mapped and their occurrence can be described and assessed.

Natural Variability As vegetation species and the assemblages of those species are linked in an ecosystem-based framework, their occurrence is associated with a range of ecosystem characteristics and components that occur both spatially and temporally. The range of ecosystem component variability for a species or assemblage of species measured for this assessment will likely not encompass the full range of natural variability that can potentially occur on the landscape.

Conservative Assumption This assessment uses a conservative approach by assessing worst-case effects. For mitigation measures that are unproven or untried (i.e., low confidence in success of mitigation), residual effects have not been reduced by mitigation. Mitigation Effects on rare ecological communities and rare plants will be limited to less than 5% of the occurrence or community.

9.4.1 Project Environmental Effects Mechanisms

9.4.1.1 Fragmentation Native vegetation in the Central Parkland, Northern Fescue and Dry Mixedgrass Natural subregions in Alberta has been affected by agriculture, industry, transportation, urban and rural development (Alberta Environmental Protection 1997a, 1997b). The remaining patches are, in many cases, small and isolated and are affected by overgrazing or continuous seasonal grazing, loss of fire, nitrogen addition and weed invasion (Bradley and Wallis 1996; Hobbs 2001). The few remaining large patches are vulnerable to further fragmentation.

9.4.1.2 Vegetation Loss Surface disturbance during construction might result in a loss of vegetation because of clearing, topsoil salvage, grading and potentially pulverization from vehicle traffic on the RoW. Vegetation loss might result in a reduction or loss of community or species diversity, or both. In addition species loss might occur in remnant prairie areas and parkland if:  patches are small (Kiviniemi and Eriksson 2002);

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 weeds or non-native species invade the RoW (Grilz 1992; Romo and Grilz 1990; Bush 2001; Desserud 2006);  the width of the disturbance exceeds the distance for seed dispersal (Soons and Heil 2002; Soons et al. 2005);  conditions result in a shift in seed dispersers or herbivorous species (insects or mammals) (Brown and Heske 1990; Velland 2002; Jules 1998; McKone et al. 2000); and  vegetation unsuitable for pollinating insects dominates the area (Steffan-Dewenter and Tscharntke 1999). Loss of rare plant individuals and populations and loss of vegetation in rare ecological communities, is a particular concern as they potentially affect landscape, community and species diversity.

9.4.1.3 Reclamation Reclamation of the RoW will likely result in a shift to early seral stage species in the first few years following completion of construction. A late-seral mixedgrass community should develop in the drier sites within 20 years (Adams et al. 2005b), depending on size, distance to native seed and weather conditions in years subsequent to the disturbance (Adams, pers. comm. 2006) and providing invasive non-native species are controlled. The community might not replicate the adjacent native communities, depending on the seed mix used and the potential that the climate and edaphic conditions are not identical (Coffin et al. 1996; Sluis 2002; Smreciu 1994; Gill 1996; Hammermeister et al. 2003). In areas with plains rough fescue (Festuca hallii), such as the Northern Fescue Subregion and Central Parkland, reclamation is more problematic. Fescue prairie is extremely vulnerable to disturbance and invasion by non-native species (Williams et al. 1985; Vujnovic and Gould 2002; Naeth et al. 1991) and is difficult to reclaim (Grilz 1992; Desserud 2006; Bradley 2003), particularly if it is subject to heavy or spring grazing. The rich black Chernozems are readily invaded by smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) and even in the healthiest ranges, these species have already invaded the wetter sites (C. Tannas, pers. comm. 2006). In moist areas where Kentucky bluegrass is already present, recovery to native species might never occur (Adams, pers. comm. 2006). Research on reclamation of pipelines in the Foothills Fescue Natural Subregion (Desserud 2006) showed that “…80% of the study RoW sites showed little resemblance to rough fescue grassland – and those that did still were appreciably different from undisturbed grassland”. Permanent shifts in vegetation types are likely to occur in plains rough fescue communities; however, recent work with planting of rough fescue plugs is showing promise in reclamation of disturbed fescue grassland areas and well site plug planting is showing good survival after two years (S. Tannas, pers. comm. 2008). Additionally, use of native hay mulch and direct seeding has also shown some good results on a pipeline in the area north of Oyen (Woosaree 2007).

9.4.1.4 Vegetation Control Trees and shrubs will be controlled in wooded areas, within 5 m of either side of the operational line, to allow regular inspection of the pipeline. These areas will be seeded with grasses and maintained as early seral communities, causing a long-term shift in community and species diversity along the pipeline RoW but over a relatively small linear distance. The control of noxious and restricted weeds, as well as non- native invasive species, using mechanical or chemical means, might affect rare ecological communities and rare plant species on the RoW.

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9.4.1.5 Weeds and Invasive Non-Native species With no mitigation measures in place, weeds and invasive non-native species can be brought into an area on construction vehicles, in seed mixes or mulch, by invading from adjacent areas. Construction activities can also encourage the germination of these species if they are already present in the seed bank. Invasive non-native species, such as smooth brome and Kentucky bluegrass, will readily invade disturbed areas and can also invade undisturbed native prairie (Grilz 1992; Grilz and Romo 1995; Romo and Grilz 1990; White et al. 1993). There are no proven control methods to prevent invasion from Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome or to eliminate them once they have invaded native prairie (Bradley 2003, 2006). In Alberta, noxious and restricted weeds, such as leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), creeping (Canada) thistle (Cirsium arvense), and butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris), are present in patches and can cause serious problems during reclamation. The introduction and spread of non-native invasive species is a concern at all levels of diversity (landscape, community and species) for both construction and operational activities.

9.4.2 Assessment of Changes to Landscape Diversity

9.4.2.1 Summary of Changes to Landscape Diversity The project mechanisms potentially causing the changes to landscape diversity are the same as those causing changes to community diversity – vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, fragmentation of native prairie, weeds and invasive species, and vegetation control. Residual effects include a reduction in large areas of native prairie. Mitigation to reduce this should include reclamation and revegetation and narrowing the RoW wherever practical in native prairie. Monitoring and follow-up for effects should be conducted at the community level.

9.4.2.2 Mitigation for Changes to Landscape Diversity The following mitigation measures to avoid or minimize adverse environmental effects from construction and operations on landscape and community diversity are outlined as follows:

Pipeline Construction

Mitigation Measures to Reduce Loss of Native Vegetation  Narrow and overlap the project RoW where it is contiguous with existing TransCanada facilities in Alberta and Saskatchewan by using part of the existing RoW for storage of topsoil and subsoil. The Company should work with other pipeline operators to negotiate, where possible, the use of third- party RoW for extra workspace.  The preliminary grade should be developed and approved by the Company’s Engineering, Environmental and Construction Management personnel.  On areas of native prairie, the Company should ensure the preliminary detailed grade plan minimizes the potential disturbance to native prairie  To reduce potential environmental effects on native vegetation where construction activities are working on unstripped sod layer, conduct construction activities, where practical, during late summer (August) through winter.  Use blade width stripping, where practical, except in areas where grading is required.

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Mitigation for Weeds and Non-Native Invasive Species  All construction equipment should arrive on site clean and free of any plant or soil material.  Establish cleaning stations as specified on the Environmental Alignment Sheets to prevent or limit the spread of weeds and non-native invasive species.  In specific areas where sharing of RoW is occurring (as identified on the Environmental Alignment Sheets), it might be necessary to strip topsoil into two different piles to prevent the introduction of weeds or invasive non-native species from the existing RoW onto the project RoW.  All areas of noxious or restricted weeds that require special construction measures should be clearly identified along the RoW.  Topsoil stripping in or near areas identified with noxious or restricted weeds should be managed and stored separately, where practical, to reduce the potential spread of weeds or non-native invasive species.  Certificates of seed analysis should be requested for all seed mixes and allotments purchased by the Company to limit the introduction of prohibited or noxious weeds and non-native invasive species on the RoW.  In specified areas, it might be beneficial to conduct pre-construction weed control to reduce the potential for spread of weeds and non-native invasive species along the pipeline RoW.  When evaluating certificates of analysis, the following aggressive agronomic species should be classified as Secondary Noxious Weeds (Class Three) (Government of Canada 1986):  crested wheat grass (Agropyron pectiniforme);  timothy (Phleum pretense);  smooth brome (Bromus inermis);  reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea);  Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratensis); sweet clover (Melilotus spp);  creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra);  cicer milkvetch (Astragalus cicer );  sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia); and  quack grass (Agropyron repens).  The following weeds should not be permitted in any seed lots (Government of Alberta 2000b):  downy brome or cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum);  Japanese brome or Japanese chess, (Bromus japonicus); and  rattail fescue (Vulpia myuros or Festuca myuros).

Mitigation for Reclamation of Native Prairie  Design seed mixes to incorporate native species specific to GVI land units or that are similar to early successional stages of native prairie.  Use native mulch to augment seed mix application in fescue grasslands, Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) pastures and the Great Sand Hills.  Ensure that straw used for crimping comes from fields growing only Canada Certified No. 1 seed and all fields should be inspected for weeds during the growing season, before purchase.  Propagate and use plug planting to aid in early establishment of rare ecological communities at specified locations (fescue grassland dominated communities).  Use natural recovery in sandy soil GVI land units (SY – Sandy and SA – Sand) where the vegetation is considered healthy and have few invasive non-native species or weed.

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 Ensure all seed mixes are Canada Certified No. 1 unless otherwise agreed to during consultation with provincial and federal regulatory agencies.  Ensure all seed mixes contain only species that are from the same ecological region.  Consult with provincial (ASRD, Special Areas, Saskatchewan Environment and Saskatchewan Agriculture) and federal agencies (PFRA and CWS) in development of seed mixes.  Consider the use of exclusion fencing in sensitive areas or other areas of concern for one to three years following construction, to reduce potential effects of cattle grazing on reclamation success. Mitigation for Rare Plants  Where practical, avoid direct effects on rare plants through route deviations or narrowing the RoW.  Where avoidance of direct effects on rare plants is not practical, it is recommended to minimize the effect to less than 5% of the population.  Clearly identify all rare plant locations on the RoW before starting construction.  Collect rare plants and seeds from specified locations for propagation and replanting following pipeline construction.

Mitigation for Rare Ecological Communities  Where practical, the Company should avoid direct effects on rare ecological plant communities through route deviations or narrowing the pipeline RoW.  In areas of rough fescue dominant communities, construction timing should be site or region specific and should be delayed until after plants set seed. Construction start-up timing might be July 15 or later, as determined on a site-specific basis by specialists qualified in native prairie and plant species protection.  Before starting construction clearly identify the extent of all rare ecological communities that cross the RoW to define community extent relative to RoW.  Narrow the RoW and avoid populations to a maximum loss of 5% of a community’s extent or individuals of a population; additional mitigation might be required if greater than 5% of community or individuals of a population are affected by construction of the Project.  Narrow the RoW in areas where the pipeline is contiguous with other RoW and when negotiation with third parties successfully allows for use of existing RoW as extra workspace.  Where shrubs are an important component of a rare ecological community, propagate shrubs and replant on the RoW.  Herbicides should not be used near rare plant or rare ecological communities. Contractors or employees controlling vegetation by mechanical or chemical means should be issued maps and GPS coordinates with locations of rare plant and rare ecological communities.  Globally rare communities should be surveyed to document the extent, including areas outside of the RoW. Depending on the results of these surveys, additional mitigation might be required to ensure that no more than 1% of the occurrence is disturbed by construction.  Develop seed mixes that will aid in re-establishing these communities.  To prevent the introduction of noxious or non-native invasive species from other areas along the pipeline RoW, It might be necessary to establish additional cleaning stations. Additional cleaning stations will be specified on the Environmental Alignment Sheets.

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Mitigation for SARA Plant Species  Where practical, avoid direct loss of SARA plant species through route deviations, narrowing the RoW or re-routing.  Avoid direct effects on SARA plant species by adhering to federal and provincial guidelines, unless otherwise approved by appropriate regulatory agencies.  On provincial lands, follow operational guidelines for SARA plant species. In the absence of provincial guidelines, follow federal guidelines.  Where adherence to federal or provincial guidelines is not possible, develop site specific mitigation plans in consultation with federal and provincial regulators that incorporates inventories, monitoring and compensation.  Acquire necessary permits in the event that direct loss of SARA-listed plant species cannot be avoided.  Restrict topsoil stripping and RoW grading in areas near SARA-listed plants and limit to blade width or even ditchline stripping where practical.  Schedule construction to occur in SARA-listed plant areas after plants have set seed unless otherwise approved by the appropriate regulatory agencies.  No grading should be allowed within 30 m of a known SARA plant site, unless approved by an authorized Company representative and applicable provincial regulators (ASRD).  Construction equipment and traffic near SARA plant sites should be limited to only the equipment absolutely essential to safely install the pipe. All other equipment should use alternative approved access (shoo-fly) around these areas to the extent possible.

Mitigation for Riparian Areas  Where appropriate, use bio-stabilization measures to reclaim riparian areas.  Narrow the RoW through sharing the existing RoW, where practical, through this community type.

Mitigation for Wetlands  In wetland areas, conduct all construction activities in late summer, fall or winter, whenever practical.  Salvage good quality topsoil and upper organic layer when constructing through wetlands.  All wetlands that have open water during construction should be constructed using an isolation technique such as a dam and pump method.  Use trenchless crossings in permanent riparian and wetland areas where standard mitigation is not sufficient to minimize effects.  Only construction equipment necessary to install the pipe should access the wetland, all other equipment should shoo-fly around.  Following pipe installation, ensure there is no trench roach left that will impede surface water hydrology.  Evaluate re-route, deviations or trenchless crossing options of wetlands that are considered to have a high ecological value.  Install silt fence on all approaches to wetlands to prevent erosion and sedimentation.

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 Use natural recovery for wetlands in areas that are healthy and have few invasive non-native species or weeds.  Where construction of mainline pump stations and the Hardisty B Terminal could result in permanent wetland loss, ensure all provincial and federal approvals are in place.

Operations  Reseed, where necessary.  Control noxious and restricted weeds on RoW, as needed.  Supply all weed control personnel with maps and GPS locations of rare plants and rare ecological communities before each field trip.  Do not use herbicide near rare plants or rare ecological communities.  Avoid using herbicides in native vegetation, unless required to control restricted and noxious weeds, as defined by provincial regulations.

9.4.2.3 Characterization of Residual Project Environmental Effects for Changes to Landscape Diversity Construction of the Project might alter landscape diversity in the LAA. Residual effects include a reduction in area of environmentally significant areas in Alberta and native prairie in Saskatchewan. Environmentally significant areas in Alberta and tracts of native prairie in Saskatchewan were selected to represent changes to landscape diversity. For an estimate of the amount of landscape areas affected, see Table 9-4. The results in Table 9-4 represent the maximum potential effects from construction disturbance. It is expected that vegetation will recover in approximately 20 years. There is no comprehensive base map representing the amount of native prairie remaining in the prairies of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Table 9-4 Areas of Alberta Environmentally Significant Areas and Saskatchewan Tracts of Native Prairie Affected by the Project

Total Area of Affected1 Environmentally Environmentally Significant Areas or Pipeline Area (32-m Significant Area Percentage Large Tracts of Native Prairie Length RoW) or Native Tract Affected (km) (ha) (ha) Alberta Alkali Creek moraine 16.36 52.34 266.41 0.196 Grassy Island Native Prairie 8.58 27.44 323.08 0.085 Muddy Buttes 8.82 28.22 115.03 0.245 Muddy Buttes Badlands 0.91 2.92 6.25 0.466 Neutral Hills 7.38 23.62 93.16 0.254 Red Deer River - Alkali Creek/Dune Point 3.26 10.44 56.34 0.185 Remount 5.92 18.96 277.76 0.068 Sounding Creek Native Prairie 18.80 60.15 356.51 0.169 Sounding Dunes 7.85 25.11 574.74 0.044 South Saskatchewan Canyon 2.93 9.38 210.74 0.045

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Table 9-4 Areas of Alberta Environmentally Significant Areas and Saskatchewan Tracts of Native Prairie Affected by the Project (cont’d)

Total Area of Affected1 Environmentally Environmentally Significant Areas or Pipeline Area (32-m Significant Area Percentage Large Tracts of Native Prairie Length RoW) or Native Tract Affected (km) (ha) (ha) Saskatchewan Frenchman River Valley 14.93 47.78 a a Great Sand Hills 0.91 2.92 338.32 0.009 PFRA Community Pastures 23.37 74.79 650.296 0.115 Swift Current Creek Range a a a a

NOTES: 1 Includes areas overlapping with existing RoWs where the Project is contiguous with existing pipelines. a – Areas could not be calculated as they are not identified in Saskatchewan provincial databases as wildlife habitat management areas or PFRA lands

9.4.2.4 Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Landscape Diversity

Screening for Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Landscape Diversity The project mechanisms potentially causing the changes to landscape diversity are the same as those causing changes to community diversity – vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, fragmentation of native prairie, weeds and invasive non-native species, and vegetation control. The main effects occur during construction with clearing of vegetation. Potential weed and invasive non-native species issues could occur during operations, which will trigger vegetation control mitigation. The effects of construction on the environmentally significant areas and tracts of native prairie are not expected to destabilize the sustainability of those large areas of native vegetation. There is no measurable effect expected on the sustainability or viability of diversity on a landscape level and no other known physical works and activities that overlap with the Project; therefore, cumulative effects were not assessed.

9.4.2.5 Determination of Significance for Changes to Landscape Changes to landscape diversity as a result of project construction are considered to be negative and of moderate magnitude at the local scale, as the standard construction RoW is 32 m wide. Effects will be medium term as native vegetation and wetlands will recover in approximately 20 years. Well established mitigation methods in the pipeline industry are recommended to manage potential effects of vegetation clearing as well as weeds and invasive non-native species issues on changes to landscape diversity. With application of the recommended mitigation measures, the potential adverse environmental effects on landscape diversity are predicted to be not significant.

9.4.2.6 Confidence in Predictions for Changes to Landscape Diversity Confidence in this prediction is moderate as native grassland areas and environmentally significant areas have been defined across the PDA; however, the total amount of native prairie existing in the RSA is not captured exclusively by the environmentally significant areas. The total amount of native prairie and

February 2009 Page 9-20 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands wetlands cannot be measured quantitatively for the RSA. Confidence in the success of mitigation is high, as the ability to re-establish vegetation through reclamation is well proven.

9.4.2.7 Follow-up and Monitoring for Changes to Landscape Diversity The Project should follow the Company’s post-construction monitoring program, which ensures compliance with specific reclamation performance criteria as might be required by the NEBA Certificate. Monitoring the reclamation of the RoW should be carried out for at least five years following construction. The monitoring program should include evaluation of the construction and mitigative measures for resources such as soils, landscape, vegetation, and wildlife. Reclamation success should also be evaluated to ensure the suitability of the measures applied and also provide opportunities for an adaptive management process for any site specific issues such as invasive non-native species, erosion or unsuccessful revegetation. A long-term monitoring and research program for SARA-listed plant species and monitoring of rough fescue grasslands is in place on the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Project routing should ensure that the integrity of the research plots and design for these programs is not affected by development of the Project. Monitoring and research results from these programs should be applied to the Project as the information becomes available.

9.4.3 Assessment of Changes to Community Diversity

9.4.3.1 Summary of Changes to Community Diversity The project mechanisms potentially causing changes to community diversity are: vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, fragmentation of native prairie, weeds and invasive non-native species, and vegetation control. Residual effects include a reduction in area of native vegetation communities, wetlands and riparian areas. Mitigation to reduce this should include reclamation and revegetation and narrowing the RoW, wherever practical, in native range. Monitoring and follow-up for effects should be conducted at the community level to ensure effectiveness of reclamation and revegetation efforts.

9.4.3.2 Mitigation for Changes to Community Diversity Recommended mitigation measures to address potential effects on community diversity are the same as those identified for changes to landscape diversity (see Section 9.4.2.2).

9.4.3.3 Characterization of Residual Project Environmental Effects for Changes to Community Diversity The Project might alter community diversity in the LAA as a result of pipeline and associated facility construction. Alteration will occur in the 32-m wide standard construction RoW and in areas required for facilities. Residual effects are an alteration of native vegetation communities (including wetlands), as well as an alteration or reduction in area of provincially and globally rare ecological plant communities. A decrease in the area of rare ecological communities is predicted as a result of construction. Provincially rare ecological communities in the LAA will be altered. Final determination of the amount of each rare ecological community is pending further surveys; however, there are a number already identified on a site-specific basis. Plains rough fescue is of particular concern as reclamation techniques and new seed stocks in development for this species and its associated community structure are promising but unproven. Assuming that 15% of the Northern Rough Fescue Natural Subregion (1,555,709 ha) still contains plains rough fescue communities, there are potentially 233,356 ha of plains rough fescue

Page 9-21 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands communities left in the subregion. The project intersects an unknown extent of plains rough fescue communities. For other provincially rare communities, construction techniques and mitigation requirements determined during further field surveys will keep the disturbance to less than 5% of the area of the community occurrence and less than 1% for globally rare communities. As a result of this commitment, effects are considered not significant. The Project will be a very small incremental increase on an already significantly modified landscape.

9.4.3.4 Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Community Diversity

Screening for Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Community Diversity The project mechanisms potentially causing the changes to community diversity are vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, fragmentation of native prairie, weeds and invasive non-native species, and vegetation control. The main effects occur during construction with clearing of vegetation. Potential weed and invasive non-native species issues could occur during operations which will trigger vegetation control mitigation. The effect of construction on native vegetation and wetlands is a reduction in total area at peak construction disturbance of the standard construction RoW width of 32 m. Mitigation should be implemented to reduce the width of disturbance, where practical, and to reclaim the disturbed areas. Potential weed and invasive non-native species issues could occur during operations which will trigger vegetation control mitigation. Mitigation should be implemented to minimize disturbance and effects on rare ecological communities to less than 5% of the community. The Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project for a segment in Alberta from the southeast corner of Gooseberry Lake to the Saskatchewan border. The RoWs will overlap about 10 m (+/-1 m). Project construction will re-disturb this area, affecting the reclamation efforts of the existing Keystone Pipeline project. This is a cumulative disturbance in the same footprint; however, reclamation will be implemented again for that area and included in the monitoring program. With mitigation, there is not expected to be a measurable effect on the sustainability or viability of diversity on a community level; therefore, cumulative effects were not assessed.

9.4.3.5 Determination of Significance for Changes to Community Diversity Effects on native vegetation communities and wetlands communities will be negative and have a moderate magnitude. Effects will be restricted to the LAA. Effects will be of medium term duration, as they will not persist beyond the life of the Project (see Table 9-5). As a result, effects are considered to be not significant (see Table 9-5). Effects on rare ecological communities will be negative and have a low magnitude at the regional scale as globally rare community diversity will be altered by a very small amount. Effects might be permanent as successful reclamation of selected individual rare ecological communities (specifically rough fescue) has not been proven. As the magnitude of effect is low the effects of Project construction on rare ecological communities are considered not significant. Well-established mitigation methods in the pipeline industry are recommended to manage effects of vegetation clearing, weeds and non-native invasive species issues. With mitigation, there is no measurable effect expected to the sustainability or viability of diversity on a community level.

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9.4.3.6 Confidence in Predictions for Changes to Community Diversity For effects on native vegetation communities, wetlands and riparian areas, prediction confidence is moderate. While baseline data incorporated surveys on most of the PDA, not every section of the PDA was surveyed in 2008. There were some limits to access, and re-routes completed after ideal survey windows were not comprehensively surveyed. The extensive cover of wetlands in the PDA also presented challenges to completing work in one season. However, the GVI mapping, used as a tool to evaluate PDA conditions, provides a solid base for assessment. Comprehensive wetland surveys will be completed in 2009. For effects on rare ecological communities, prediction confidence is low. While some rare ecological communities were identified in the field, post processing of site data identified additional rare community occurrences. Further mappings, and potentially field surveys, are required to determine the extent of specific rare ecological communities. As a result, rare ecological community locations will be revisited in 2009 to determine extent and ensure the identified targets for maintenance will be met. The rare ecological community boundaries will be clearly identified before the start of construction.

9.4.3.7 Follow-up and Monitoring for Changes to Community Diversity For the recommended follow-up and monitoring for changes to community diversity, see Section 9.4.2.7.

9.4.4 Assessment of Changes to Species Diversity

9.4.4.1 Summary of Changes to Species Diversity The project mechanisms potentially causing changes to species diversity are: vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, weeds and non-native invasive species, and vegetation control. Residual effects include a reduction in local populations of rare species and introduction and spread of weeds and invasive non- native species. Mitigation to reduce the effects should include in-situ avoidance, transplantation or seed collection where the immediate population size warrants mitigation. Monitoring and follow-up for effects on rare species should be conducted for those populations where specific mitigation is implemented.

9.4.4.2 Mitigation for Changes to Species Diversity The recommended mitigation measures to avoid or minimize potential adverse environmental effects during construction and operations on species diversity are the same as those identified to mitigate potential effects on rare plants and SARA-listed plant species (see Section 9.4.2.2).

9.4.4.3 Characterization of Residual Project Environmental Effects for Changes to Species Diversity Project construction might alter species diversity in the LAA. Residual effects are the potential alteration of native vegetation species, including reduction of rare plant individuals, and the introduction and spread of invasive non-native species in areas of native vegetation. Slender mouse-ear-cress, a SARA-listed species, was found along the (now discounted) route option through the Remount Pasture during rare plant surveys in June 2008. Four additional locations of the species were found along the proposed route in August 2008. Slender mouse-ear-cress is listed as threatened (Schedule 1) under SARA. Tiny Cryptanthe had been previously identified on the contiguous portion of the route south of the Red Deer and through a portion the Remount Pasture as part of the work on the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Both of these species are protected under the Alberta Wildlife Act. Provincially rare species were identified throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan. Mitigation measures should be implemented for these as previously discussed.

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Introduction of weeds and invasive non-native species also has the potential to alter the species diversity of disturbed areas and areas adjacent to disturbed areas. Invasive non-native species typically exhibit characteristics that will out-compete native species and re-establish easily on disturbed areas. Specific mitigation measures to prevent the introduction and spread of weeds and non-native invasive species are included in the environmental protection plan (see Appendix A).

9.4.4.4 Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Species Diversity

Screening for Cumulative Environmental Effects for Changes to Species Diversity The Project mechanisms potentially causing the changes to species diversity are vegetation loss or alteration from clearing, weeds and invasive non-native species, and vegetation control. The main effects occur during construction with clearing of vegetation. Potential weed and invasive non-native species issues could occur during operation, which will trigger vegetation control mitigation. The effect of construction on rare plant species has the potential to generate a reduction in local populations at peak construction disturbance. Mitigation should be implemented to reduce the effect through in-situ avoidance and transplanting or seed collection where the immediate population size warrants mitigation. The goal is to minimize effects to less than 5% of the immediate population. SARA- listed species should be treated as identified above (see Section 9.4.2.2). Potential weed and invasive non-native species issues could occur during operations, which will trigger the need for vegetation control. With mitigation, there is not expected to be a measurable effect on the sustainability or viability of diversity on a community level and there are no other known physical works and activities that overlap with the Project; therefore, cumulative effects were not assessed.

9.4.4.5 Determination of Significance for Changes to Species Diversity Mitigation for rare species has targeted reduction of no more than 5% for each rare plant occurrence along the PDA. As a result, the overall effect is considered to be negative and low in magnitude. Effects on rare plants are always regional, as these species are designated rare at the provincial level. Effects on the population might be permanent, as the ability for individual rare species to re-populate the PDA is unknown. As a result of the low magnitude, the effects are considered not significant (see Table 9-5). Effects on SARA-listed species should be addressed according to the regulatory guidelines (i.e. ASRD) and, as such, the same significant determination is predicted. Prevention of the spread of weeds and invasive non-native species during construction is anticipated to be effective. Effects are predicted to be negative, of low magnitude, local and short term. As a result, effects are considered not significant (see Table 9-5).

9.4.4.6 Confidence in Predictions for Changes to Species Diversity For effects on rare species, prediction confidence is low. While baseline data incorporated most of the centre line, some areas where SARA-listed plants are known to occur have yet to be surveyed because of access limitations and late season re-routes during the 2008 field season. In addition, the population extent of provincially rare species was not determined at every location in 2008, as some rare species and their occurrences were determined after the field season. As a result, rare plant locations will be revisited in 2009 to determine their extent and ensure the identified target will be met. Rare plant population boundaries will be clearly identified before the start of construction. Prediction confidence for effects on weeds and invasive spread and presence is high as baseline data incorporated most of the PDA. Although data analysis was restricted to presentation of field data, confidence in mitigation measures is high as practices are well established.

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Table 9-5 Summary of Project Residual Environmental Effects: Vegetation and Wetlands

Residual Environmental Effects Characteristics

e e d c n l

o a n o d y n i t c t a o t y e i n e i n n l t c h c c d h a i i d t i i e

x i o l f n u p i b i f n d n e t i e t e m a i t e n n e o s k c r t u n r i i n n r g o e t g x i q o P L

Potential Residual g Recommended e o r C r a i o E e S i a v r C r e D Proposed mitigation/ v Environmental e Follow-up u M F G n R Effects Compensation measures D and monitoring E Effect 1: Changes to Landscape Diversity - Fragmentation of remaining large tracts of dominantly native prairie Construction and See Section 9.4.2.1 for the recommended N M L MT/O R U N M L SeeSection9.4.2.6for Commissioning mitigation measures to avoid or minimize details on the follow-up potential adverse environmental effects on and monitoring program Operations N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A landscape diversity. Interaction with Other N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Physical Works and Activities on VECs Effect 2: Changes to Community Diversity – Direct loss or alteration of native vegetation and wetlands including rare ecological communities

Construction and See Section 9.4.3 for the recommended N M L MT/O R U N M L SeeSection9.4.3.6for Commissioning mitigation measures to avoid or minimize details on the follow-up potential adverse environmental effects on and monitoring program Operations N L S MT/O R U landscape diversity. Interaction with Other N L S MT/O R U Physical Works and Activities on VECs Effect 3: Changes to Species Diversity – Direct loss of rare species or alterations to their populations and increased presence of weeds and invasive species Construction and See Section 9.4.2.1 for the recommended N L S to R MT/O R U N L L See Section 9.4.4.6 for Commissioning mitigation measures to avoid or minimize to P/O details on the follow-up potential adverse environmental effects on and monitoring Operations N L S MT/S R U landscape diversity. program Interaction with Other N L S MT/O R U Physical Works and Activities on VECs

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Table 9-5 Summary of Project Residual Environmental Effects: Vegetation and Wetlands (cont’d)

Residual Environmental Effects e

Characteristics c n e t d e i n d c f l

e o a n t n d y t t a o x o y e n i n n l t c h c E d a C i i i e

x o l f n u i b i c n e t n i e t i e m i t n o s k c o h u n i i n i n r g e t t i p q o L g e o r r a c i a e S i a i v r C r r D Potential Residual v Recommended e d u M g F n e R D o Environmental r Follow-up E e P

Effects Proposed mitigation/Compensation measures G and monitoring Combined Residual Environmental Effects Construction and N M R/SMT/OR U N M L Commissioning Operations NMR/SMT/ORU Interaction with Other N M R/S MT/O R U Physical Works and Activities on VECs

February 2009 Page 9-26 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Section 9: Assessment of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands

Table 9-5 Summary of Project Residual Environmental Effects: Vegetation and Wetlands (cont’d)

KEY Direction: Duration: Environmental Context: Likelihood: P Positive Use quantitative measure; or U Undisturbed: Area relatively or Based on professional judgment N Negative ST Short term: Less than one year not adversely affected by L Low probability of MT Medium term: more than One year human activity occurrence Magnitude: but not beyond life of the project D Developed: Area has been M Medium probability of substantially previously Use quantitative measure; or LT Long term: Up to 30 years beyond occurrence disturbed by human L Low: Project will have no measurable life of Project H High probability of development or human occurrence effect on vegetation and wetlands P Permanent: more than 30 years or development is still present permanent alteration to vegetation M Moderate: Project will have N/A Not applicable a measurable effect but will not reduce and wetlands Cumulative Effects diversity Y Potential for effect to Significance: H High: Project will have a measurable Frequency: interact with other past, effect and will reduce diversity. Use quantitative measure; or S Significant present or foreseeable O Occurs once N Not significant projects or activities in RAA Geographic Extent: S Occurs sporadically at irregular N Effect will not or is not likely intervals Prediction Confidence: to interact with other past, Use quantitative measure; or present or foreseeable S Site-specific: PDA R Occurs on a regular basis and at Based on scientific information and statistical analysis, professional projects or activities in RAA L Local: LAA regular intervals C Continuous judgment and effectiveness R Regional: RAA and beyond of mitigation L Low level of confidence Reversibility: M Moderate level of confidence R Reversible H High level of confidence I Irreversible

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9.4.4.7 Follow-up and Monitoring for Changes to Species Diversity For the recommended follow-up and monitoring for changes to species diversity, see Section 9.4.2.7.

9.5 Summary of Environmental Effects on Vegetation and Wetlands Environmental effects of the Project on vegetation and wetlands were assessed by selecting specific measurable parameters, representing landscape diversity, community diversity and species diversity. These parameters also represent specific vegetation-based concerns such as rare ecological communities, wetlands, riparian areas, native prairie and rare plants.

9.5.1 Summary of Mitigation for Vegetation and Wetlands Mitigation measures have been recommended to avoid or minimize potential adverse environmental effects on vegetation and wetlands during construction and operation of the Project (see Section 9.4.3). With the implementation of these mitigation measures, Project effects on vegetation and wetlands are predicted to be not significant.

9.5.2 Follow-up and Monitoring for Vegetation and Wetlands For the recommended follow-up and monitoring for vegetation and wetlands, see Section 9.4.2.7.

9.5.3 Summary of Residual Project and Cumulative Environmental Effects for Vegetation and Wetlands Characterization of residual effects on vegetation and wetlands was based on the established criteria (see Section 9.2.5) and the effectiveness of mitigation measures (see Table 9-5). Based on the quality and quantity of baseline information, confidence in mapping techniques and confidence in mitigation success, there is a low to moderate confidence in each residual effect prediction. There is high confidence in assessment of distribution of vegetation cover, wetlands and riparian areas; however, the limited surveys in certain areas bring the confidence down in respect to presence of rare ecological communities. Factors contributing to the low confidence in species diversity assessment are the incomplete surveys for rare species and communities in areas where access was limited and the re- routes that were made late in the field season. With the application of recommended mitigation residual project and cumulative effects on vegetation and wetlands were determined to be not significant. Additional vegetation surveys will be completed for wetlands, rare plants and rare ecological communities in 2009 that will increase the confidence in the prediction of residual and cumulative project effects.

9.6 References for Vegetation and Wetlands Adams, Barry W., Lindsay Poulin-Klein, Darlene Moisey and Ron L. McNeil. 2005b. Range Plant Communities and Range Health Assessment Guidelines for the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion of Alberta. First Approximation, May 2005. Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Rangeland Management Branch, Public Lands and Forests Division, Lethbridge, Alberta. Pub. No. T/040 Alberta Environmental Protection. 1997a. The Grassland Natural Region of Alberta. Alberta Environmental Protection, Natural Resources Service, Recreation and Protected Areas Division, Natural Heritage Protection and Education Branch.

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Alberta Environmental Protection. 1997b. The Parkland Natural Region of Alberta. Alberta Environmental Protection, Natural Resources Service, Recreation and Protected Areas Division, Natural Heritage Protection and Education Branch. Allen, L. 2006. Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre Preliminary. Ecological Community Tracking List. Alberta Community Development, Edmonton, Alberta. Pub. No. T/527 Bradley, C. and C. Wallis. 1996. Prairie Ecosystem management: An Alberta Perspective. Published by Prairie Conservation Forum, Occasional Paper Number 2, 29 pgs. Bradley, Cheryl. 2003. Invasion of Non-Native Plant Species: Report of Workshop Results. Prepared for Alberta Environment on behalf of the Southern Alberta Sustainability Strategy. Bradley, Cheryl. 2003 (revised 2006). Is Oil and Gas Development and Conservation of Rough Fescue Possible? Alberta Native Plant Council Conference, May 2003. Lethbridge, Alberta. Brown, James H. and Edward J. Heske. 1990. Control of a Desert-Grassland Transition by a Keystone Rodent Guild. Science 250:1705-1707. Bush, Dana. 2001. Crested Wheatgrass Invasion on Native Prairie: North Suffield Pipeline. Prepared for AEC Suffield Gas Pipeline Inc. Prepared by Dana Bush, AXYS Environmental Consulting Ltd. Coffin, Debra P., William K. Lauenroth, and Ingrid C. Burke. 1996. Recovery of Vegetation in a Semiarid Grassland 53 years after disturbance. Ecological Applications 6(2). Desserud, Petty Ann. 2006. Restoration of Rough Fescue Grassland on Pipelines in Southwestern Alberta. Master’s Thesis. Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary, Alberta. Gill Environmental Consulting. 1996. Recommendations for Changes to Alberta’s Wellsite Reclamation Criteria for Vegetation on Dry Mixed Grass Prairie. Prepared for: Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Public Land management Branch. Government of Alberta. 2001. Weed Control Act – Alberta Regulation AR 171 / 2001. Alberta Queen’s Printer. Edmonton, Alberta. Government of Alberta, 2006b. Alberta Sustainable Resource Development. Alberta Government Website. Available online: http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/ (Accessed September 14, 2006) Government of Canada. 1986. Secondary Noxious Weeds. Government of Canada. Available online: www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/publications/inv/22_e.cfm (Accessed September 14, 2006) Grilz, Perry L. and J.T. Romo. 1995. Management Considerations for Controlling Smooth Brome in Fescue Prairie. Natural Areas Journal 15:148-156. Grilz, Perry. L.1992. Ecological Relations of Bromus inermis and Festuca altaica subsp. hallii. M.Sc. Thesis, Department of Crop Science and Plant Ecology, University of Saskatchewan. Hammermeister, A.M., M.A Naeth., J.J Schoenau., and V.O Biederbeck. 2003. Soil and plant response to wellsite rehabilitation on native prairie in southeastern Alberta, Canada. Canadian Journal of Soil Science. Vol. 83, no.5. pp. 507-519. Nov.2003 Henderson, Darcy C. May, 2007. Set-Back Distance and Timing Restriction Guidelines, Prairie Plant Species at Risk: Version 3. Environment Canada Hobbs, Richard J. 2001. Synergisms among Habitat Fragmentation, Livestock Grazing, and Biotic Invasions in Southwestern Australia. Conservation Biology 15(6):1522-1528. Jules, Erik S. 1998. Habitat Fragmentation and Demographic Change for a Common Plant: Trillium in Old-Growth Forest. Ecology 79(5):1645-1656.

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Kiviniemi, K and O. Eriksson. 2002. Size-related deterioration of semi-natural grassland fragments in Sweden. Diversity and Distributions: 8, 21-29. Lancaster, J. (ed.). 2000. Guidelines for Rare Plant Surveys. Alberta Native Plant Council. Edmonton, AB. McKone, Mark J., Kendra K. McLaughlan, Edward G Lebrun, and Andrew C. McCall. 2000. An Edge Effect Caused by Adult Corn-Rootworm Beetles on Sunflowers in Tallgrass Prairie Remnants. Conservation Biology 15(5):1315-1324. Naeth, A., W. Bailey, D.J. Pluth, D.S. Chanasyk, and R.T. Hardin. 1991. Grazing impacts on litter and soil organic matter in mixed prairie and fescue grassland ecosystems in Alberta. J. of Range Management 44: 7-12. National Energy Board (NEB). Filing Manual. Available at: http://www.one.gc.ca/ActsRegulations/NEBAct/FilingManual/FMTOC_e.htm Romo, J.T. and P.L. Grilz. 1990. Invasion of the Canadian Prairies by an Exotic Perennial. Blue Jay 48(3):130-135. Sluis, William J. 2002. Patterns of Species Richness and Composition in Re-Created Grassland. Restoration Ecology 10(4):677-684. Smreciu, A. 1994. A Survey of Native and Agronomic Plants on Gas Wellsites in Southwestern Alberta. Prepared for Alberta Conservation and Reclamation Management Group (Reclamation Research Technical Advisory Committee) and Shell Canada Limited. RRTAC OF-5. Soons, m.B., J.H. Messelink, E. Jongejans, and G.W. Heil. 2005. Habitat fragmentation reduces grassland connectivity for both short-distance and long-distance wind-dispersed forbs. Journal of Ecology, 93:1214-1225. Soons, Merel B. and Gerrit W. Heil. 2002. Reduced colonization capacity in fragmented populations of wind-dispersed grassland forbs. Journal of Ecology, 90:1033-1043. Steffan-Dewenter, Ingolf and Teja Tscharntke. 1999. Effects of habitat isolation on pollinator communities and seed set. Oecologia , 1212:432-440. Velland, Mark. A Pest and Invader: White-tail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimm.) as a Seed Dispersal Agent for Honeysuckle Shrubs (Lonicera L.). Natural Areas Journal 22:230-234. Vujnovic, K. and J.Gould. 2002. Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre (Tracking and Watch Lists - Rare Vascular Plants, mosses, Liverworts and Hornworts). Alberta Community Development, Parks and Protected Areas Division. Edmonton, Alberta. White, D.J., E. Haber, and C. Keddy. 1993. Invasive Plants of Natural Habitats in Canada. Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. Publication No CW-66-127. 121pgs Willms, W. D.; Smoliak, S.; Dormaar, J. F. 1985. Effects of stocking rate on a rough fescue grassland vegetation. Journal of Range Management. 38(3): 220-225. Woosaree, J, 2007. Restoration of Rough Fescue Prairie on a Pipeline Right-of-Way in the Bodo Hills. Final report prepared for Penn West Petroleum Ltd. and Alberta Sustainable Resource Development.

Personal Communications Adams, B., 2006. Range management Specialist - South Lethbridge Office, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Lethbridge, Alberta. Tannas, Clare. 2006. Consultant, Eastern Slopes Rangeland Seeds. Cremona, Alberta

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Internet Sites Government of Saskatchewan 1984. Noxious Weed Act. Available at: http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/index.cfm?fuseaction=publications.details&p=742

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Appendix 9A Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

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9A.1 Introduction This appendix describes the baseline vegetation and wetlands survey methods and results for the Project. For the vegetation and wetlands component of the ESA, data collected in 2006 and 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project were used where the Project is contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. As such, vegetation surveys were only done where the Project was not contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project, specifically from Hardisty to Gooseberry Lake and from the south end of the Remount Pasture to Monchy, Saskatchewan. Some surveys were done in parallel sections from north of the of the Red Deer River to the Remount Pasture because of the higher rare plant and rare ecological community potential at those locations. Vegetation and wetlands surveys were done in the project footprint and focused on areas of native prairie. Land access limitations along some areas of the RoW prevented surveys from occurring in the specified survey windows. These missed sections and the sections that are contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project and where there have been occurrences of species or communities of management concern will be surveyed in 2009 to determine site-specific mitigation measures. The wetland surveys were not comprehensive. Selected wetlands in native prairie areas were surveyed as time permitted and when a rare plant survey was also targeted at that site. This provided a representative sample of the types of wetlands on the landscape in a native state; it also facilitated general characterization and the completion of vegetation mapping. In 2009, comprehensive wetland surveys will be completed and rare plant surveys will be completed in areas where land access prevented surveying in the proper timing windows. The RoW, Hardisty B Terminal and pump stations were mapped using stereo softcopy techniques to a 100-m buffer. The mapping standard used was Grassland Vegetation Inventory (GVI) (ASRD 2007) specifications with modifications to accommodate the available imagery and the project requirements. The Project is situated in Alberta and Saskatchewan. For the purposes of the assessment on vegetation and wetlands, rare element occurrence were obtained from provincial databases (Alberta Natural Heritage Information Center [ANHIC] and Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre [CDC]) to aid field survey planning and the environmental assessment.

9A.2 Methods

9A.2.1 Field Surveys Field surveys were done on the portions of the project footprint situated in native prairie areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan. A field survey was not undertaken on the portion of the Project that is contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Field surveys in Alberta were undertaken in the spring and summer of 2008, from June 15 to 20 and from August 23 to 30. In some parts of Alberta, landowner permission was not available or was limited and surveys were not completed. Field surveys in these missed areas will be done in 2009. Field surveys for Saskatchewan were undertaken from June 2 to 12, July 3 to 10 and August 6 to 18, 2008. The July survey was undertaken to assess areas not surveyed in June because of rain and associated wet soil conditions. See Table 9A-1 for a list of field surveys undertaken in 2008.

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Table 9A-1 Summary of Vegetation Field Surveys Completed in 2008

FieldDates June2–12 June15–20 July3–10 August6–18 August23–30 Survey Rare Plant Rare Plant Rare Plant Rare Plant Rare Plant Type Spring Surveys Spring Surveys Spring Surveys Summer Surveys Summer Surveys (61) and Wetland (70) and Wetland (94) and Wetland (159) and Wetland (55) and Wetland Surveys (20) Surveys (16) Surveys (14) Surveys (23) Surveys (7) Location Saskatchewan Alberta Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Alberta

Field survey sites were chosen to include all major vegetation and wetlands types in the project footprint. In addition, vegetation and wetlands associated with uncommon landscape features (i.e., sand dunes and river valleys) were also selected for survey. A typical site survey included characterization of the site and the vegetation that was present. Field surveys also identified communities and species of management concern, including rare plants, weed species and rare ecological communities. As a result of spring field survey findings, the pipeline route was altered to mitigate potential effects on a SARA-listed plant, Halimolobos virgata (slender mouse-ear-cress), which was found during the June field survey. The pipeline route was altered from the original path and is now contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project though the Remount Pasture in Alberta (see Section 4 for more details on the route selection process).

9A.2.2 Vegetation and Wetlands Cover Classification The Project traverses three natural subregions in Alberta and two ecorgions in Saskatchewan (see Section 9A3.1). This range of climatic, landscape and land use conditions contributes to the wide variety of vegetation cover conditions across the length of the Project. One system of vegetation cover classification, GVI (ASRD 2007), was chosen to represent the condition across the entire Project. Although it is an Alberta-based system, GVI was applied to the Saskatchewan section as well. GVI is an initiative of Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) and is the mapping procedure used to represent range sites, which are based on recognizable soil and landscape features, such as soil series, soil textures, blowouts and badlands (McNeil and Adams 2005). There are 32 dominant site types represented in GVI (see Table 9A-2), 14 native upland range sites, five wetland or lentic types, five riparian or lotic types and eight anthropogenic types, including agricultural, industrial and settled (see Attachment 9A.I for a description of the dominant GVI site types). These types are assigned to polygons mapped in a stereo vision softcopy environment and can be complexed together, where multiple site types are assigned to one polygon or map unit. Additional information can also be assigned to each dominant site type, including proportion of bare mineral cover, tree cover, shrub cover and modifiers such as identifier for dugouts, salinity and type of industrial site. Additional linear and point identifiers can also be developed for shelterbelts and trees. The information inputs used to identify the GVI information is stereo softcopy images at a high resolution, detailed soil map information (important for many upland native site types) and sometimes field data. ASRD is in the process of GVI mapping the cultivated area of Alberta known as the White Zone and the areas traversed by the Project have not been completed. The Project footprint was mapped based on experience and certification gained though completing 57 townships in the Milk River Ridge and areas southeast of Medicine Hat under contract to ASRD. The area mapped was a 200-m corridor centred on the RoW and a 100-m buffer around the Hardisty B Terminal and the mainline pumps stations. Modifications were made to the GVI specification to accommodate the needs of the Project; particularly the need for more detailed wetlands mapping. In GVI specifications, the minimum polygon size for wetlands is 1 ha. For the Project, the minimum size for wetlands delineation was eliminated.

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Table 9A-2 Grassland Vegetation Inventory Land Units

Primary Land Sub- Class Land Class class Code ID Site Type Modifiers Native/ Wetland Lentic LenT 1 Lentic – Natural Temporary LenS 2 Lentic - Seasonal LenA 3 Lentic - Alkali LenSP 5 Lentic – Semi to Permanent Water Wetland Lentic LenW 5 Lentic – N Open water (Native/Natural) D (Dugout) R (Reservoir) Water Riparian Lotic LtcR 6 Lotic – River Native/ Riparian Lotic LtcC 7 Lotic – Natural Coniferous LtcD 8 Lotic – Deciduous LtcS 9 Lotic - Shrub LtcH 10 Lotic - Herbaceous Sb 11 Subirrigated Ov 12 Overflow Cy 13 Clayey Lo 14 Loamy Sy 15 Sandy Li 16 Limy Sa 17 Sand BlO 18 Blowouts/ Solonetzic order CS 19 Choppy A (Active Sandhills Erosion) TB 20 Thin Breaks SwG 21 Shallow to Gravel SL 22 Saline Lowland Gr 23 Gravel

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Table 9A-2 Grassland Vegetation Inventory Land Units (cont’d)

Primary Land Sub- Class Land Class class Code ID Site Type Modifiers Native/ Riparian Lotic BdL 24 Badlands/ Natural Bedrock (cont’d) CI 25 Crop – SN (Salinity) Irrigated CN 26 Crop – Non- SN (Salinity) irrigated Tame PI 27 Tame SN (Salinity) Pasture Pasture or Hay Irrigated PN 28 Tame SN (Salinity) Pasture or Hay Non- irrigated Anthropogenic Industrial Pit 29 Pits Type Modifiers Dev 30 Developed Type Modifiers Anthropogenic Settled Ur 31 Urban GS (Green Space) Ru 32 Rural GS (Green Space) SOURCE: GVI Specifications (ASRD 2007)

The base imagery ASRD uses for GVI is a high-resolution stereo image with infrared representation. The infrared imagery provides good representation of ground conditions, particularly where they are influenced by wetter conditions such as wetlands, riparian and irrigated areas. This type of imagery was not available for the project area so the highest available quality colour imagery was used for Alberta; Saskatchewan imagery was only available as black and white. The nature of the available imagery has inherent limitations on the detail that can be mapped, versus the standard ASRD product. Soils information is a key component in assigning site types in GVI. The project soils baseline information was used and provided site-specific soils series mapping (see Section 8A for a detail on images used and soils series mapping). GVI is part of a larger system of range community classification that is based on range sites (McNeil and Adams 2005) and the vegetation community cover typically associated with those range sites. The range community classification for different range sites is published by ASRD in a number of guides identifying characteristic vegetation communities associated with each range type by natural subregion (ASRD 2008). Keys are available for the Mixedgrass, Dry Mixedgrass and Foothills Fescue Natural subregions; however, they are not available for the Northern Fescue or Central Parkland subregions. They are also not available for Saskatchewan. The Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion (Adams et al. 2005b) is the only subregion in the project area with an available key. The Ecological Range Sites for the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion was developed without data from the Special Areas (Adams, pers. comm. 2006). During surveys for the existing Keystone Pipeline project, it was determined that the Range Plant Communities in the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion do not adequately describe the plant communities occurring (Tannas, pers. comm. 2006); there was some correlation with the communities listed in the Mixedgrass Range Plant Community Guide (Adams et al. 2004). A correlation of the dominant

February 2009 Page 9A-6 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline communities for each GVI site type from the Mixedgrass and Dry Mixed Grass Natural subregions can be found in Attachment 9A.II. During the Project field surveys, the Dry Mixed Grass Natural Subregion types were found to correlate to the community types found in the far southern region of the Alberta section of the Project and to community cover found in the Mixedgrass region of Saskatchewan.

9A.2.2.1 Wetland and Riparian Classification Wetlands and riparian areas are mapped in GVI using 10 site types. GVI riparian areas are used to summarize riparian areas along the Project. The wetland GVI site types can be correlated to the Stuart and Kantrud (1971) system for classifying wetlands (see Table 9A-3). The Stewart and Kantrud system is based on water permanence and chemistry. Water permanence is an indication of the hydrology of the wetland and affects the presence of rare plants and animals. Salinity also affects community composition. Species of plants and animals will differ as a function of both water permanence and salinity. Due to the challenge of deciphering Class 1 and Class 2 wetlands during mapping, GVI classes were used for mapping instead of Stuart and Kantrud classes. Seven major classes of wetlands in natural basins are recognized on the basis of ecological differentiation (see Table 9A-3). Each class is distinguished by the vegetation zone occurring in the central or deeper part and occupying 5% or more of the total wetland area being classified. Wetland classes are from Stewart and Kantrud (1971); however, characteristic species typical of Alberta and Saskatchewan have been added.

Table 9A-3 GVI Wetland Types Correlated to Stewart and Kantrud (1971)

Stuart and Kantrud Wetland GVI Land Class Central Zone Description Unit Class I – Central Wetland- Ephemeral ponds occur in small field drainages and contain Lentic ephemeral pond Low-Prairie Zone prairie species such as Arnicas (Arnica spp.) and white camas Temporary (Zigadenus elegans), as well as Kentucky bluegrass (Poa - LenT pratensis). Class II – Freshwater Central The central wet-meadow zone dominates the deepest part of Lentic freshwater Wet Meadow the wetland area. A peripheral low-prairie zone is usually Temporary temporary ponds present. The central wet-meadow zone is usually dominated by - LenT western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii) and bluegrasses (Poa spp.) and upland sedges (Carex spp.). Class IIb- slightly- Slightly-Brackish to The wet-meadow zone dominates the deepest part of the Lentic brackish to Brackish Central wetland area. A peripheral low-prairie zone is usually present. Temporary brackish Wet Meadow The central zone is usually dominated by species that can - LenT temporary ponds tolerate some salts, such as western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii), Foxtail barely (Hordeum jubatum) and salt-grass (Distichlis stricta). Class III – Freshwater to Class III-seasonal ponds and lakes: Seasonal ponds are Lentic freshwater to Brackish Central wetlands with a shallow-marsh zone dominating the deepest Seasonal - brackish seasonal Shallow-Marsh part of the wetland area. These ponds are frequently LenS ponds Zone surrounded by a ring of willows (Salix petiolaris, S. scouleriana, S. bebbiana) with a wet centre containing sedges (Carex atherodes, C. athrostachya, C. utriculata) for freshwater wetlands or bulrushes (Scirpus pungens, S. validus) in more brackish wetlands. Pondweeds (Potamogeton gramineus) and mosses (Drepanocladus spp.) might occur in the open water. Brackish ponds might have halophytic species in the drawdown area, such as foxtail barely, red goosefoot (Chenopodium rubrum), oak-leaved goosefoot (Chenopodium salinum), or summer cypress (Kochia scoparia).

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Table 9A-3 GVI Wetland Types Correlated to Stewart and Kantrud (1971) (cont’d)

Stuart and Kantrud Wetland GVI Land Class Central Zone Description Unit Class IV – Freshwater to In semi-permanent ponds and lakes, the deep-marsh zone Lentic freshwater to Brackish Central dominates the deepest part of the wetland area. Shallow- Semi- to brackish semi- Deep-Marsh Zone marsh, wet-meadow and low-prairie zones are usually present, permanent- permanent ponds and isolated marginal pockets of fen zones occasionally occur. LenSP Cattails (Typha latifolia) and rushes (Scirpus spp.) are typical emergent species, while aquatic plants such as pondweeds, bladderwort (Utricularia vulgaris), water-milfoil (Myriophyllum spp.) and water hornwort (Cerotophyllum demersum) are found floating in the centre. The edges of brackish semi-permanent ponds typically contain prairie bulrush (Scirpus paludosus), alkali grass (Puccinellia nuttalliana) and red samphire (Salicornia europaea).

Class V – Freshwater to The permanent-open-water zone dominates the deepest part Lentic freshwater to Brackish Central of the wetland area. Peripheral deep-marsh, shallow-marsh, Semi to brackish Permanent Open- wet-meadow and low-prairie zones are often present. The permanent- permanent ponds Water Zone centre portion of a permanent lake or pond is typically open LenSP water, although submerged vegetation might occur, such as widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima). Class VI – alkali Central The intermittent-alkali zone dominates the deepest part of the Lentic ponds Intermittent-Alkali wetland area. In alkali ponds and lakes peripheral shallow- Alkali - Zone marsh, wet-meadow and low-prairie zones are usually present. LenA A deep-marsh zone is normally absent except occasionally for isolated patches near marginal seepage areas. A few isolated pockets of fen zone are normally present along the margins.

9A.2.2.2 Field Data and Mapping Field surveys were conducted on the project footprint (see Section 9A.2.1). Information on site characteristics and community cover and composition was collected at each site. These data are representative of conditions at each specific site. Grasslands vegetation cover changes with small variations in topography, substrate and moisture; therefore, many different grassland communities can be found in relatively small areas, such as a quarter section. For this reason, each GVI type can represent a number of distinct communities when described at the scale that is presented in the range community classification guides. Field data were used to confirm the type of vegetation and site conditions in a GVI polygon. The specific communities from field data can be assumed to be present as the dominant community, but not the exclusive community; therefore, summarization of site types was completed at the scale of GVI types. Wetlands data were completed for select wetlands. These data included GPS demarcation of wetland zone boundaries and a brief description of the characteristic vegetation of each zone. The data set of surveyed wetlands was used during the GVI process to interpolate the classification of the wetlands that were not surveyed. Comprehensive wetlands surveys will be completed in 2009.

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9A.2.3 Rare Ecological Communities

9A.2.3.1 Data Source Rare ecological communities are natural communities that are unusual, uncommon, of limited extent, encountered infrequently, in decline or threatened (Allen 2008). Each community is composed of species that respond similarly to a variety of site attributes, such as moisture, nutrient regime, climate, slope and aspect. Habitats supporting these rare ecological communities might be uncommon on the landscape or peripheral in Alberta or Saskatchewan. Some species in a rare ecological community might also be rare, but most are common within their range – it is the assemblage that is rare. Rare ecological communities are vulnerable because of their limited range and their reliance on specific environmental variables and historic events, most of which are not understood. These communities can be altered through clearing, ground disturbance, alterations to surface or shallow groundwater, air emissions or invasion of non-native species (Allen 2008). Rare ecological communities are only tracked in Alberta (Allen 2008) and not Saskatchewan. Due to the lack of background rare ecological community data available for Saskatchewan, the ANHIC Rare Ecological Community Tracking List for Alberta was applied to the Saskatchewan data and checked for national and global ranks.

9A.2.3.2 Rare Ecological Community Methods Rare ecological community surveys were combined with rare plant surveys. Communities were therefore identified from the rare plant survey sites, using the ANHIC Tracking List for both Alberta and Saskatchewan. Sites that had the species of interest in the appropriate quantities were classified as Rare Ecological Communities. Communities are identified as either an alliance or an association. An alliance community name includes the class (e.g., Forest, Woodland, Herbaceous) and the word alliance (e.g., Pseudotsuga menziesii Forest Alliance). An association community name only includes the class (e.g., Abies lasiocarpa / Vaccinium scoparium Forest) (NatureServe 2008). Plant species that are dominant (in the area) and are diagnostic (consistent in some vegetation types but not others) are the foundation of both alliance and association names. At least one species from the dominant or uppermost stratum, or both is included in each community name. The notation used in community names has significance. Hyphens ("-") indicate species occurring in the same stratum while slashes ("/") indicate species occurring in different strata. Parentheses around a species’ name indicate it is less consistently found. Generally, species that occur in the uppermost stratum are listed first, followed successively by those in lower strata. As well, the order of species listed in a community name reflects decreasing levels of dominance, constancy or indicator value (NatureServe 2008).

9A.2.4 Rare Plants

9A.2.4.1 Data Source Plant species that exist in small numbers or have a limited global or provincial distribution are considered rare (Kershaw et al. 2001). These plants are ranked globally, nationally (SARA) and provincially, indicating their relative rarity. For the definitions of the provincial rankings for Alberta and Saskatchewan and the global ranking equivalents, see Table 9A-4. Species ranks and placement on tracking and watch lists are evaluated regularly by ANHIC. Species included on watch lists often have restricted distributions but are common in their range; therefore, population declines can result in the reclassification of a species from the watch list onto the tracking list (Gould 2006).

Page 9A-9 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-4 Provincial and Global Rankings for Alberta and Saskatchewan

Provincial Global Rank Rank Definition S1 G1 Five or fewer recorded occurrences or with few individuals remaining. S2 G2 Six to 20 occurrences or with many individuals in fewer occurrences. S3 G3 Twenty-one to 100 occurrences and might be rare and local throughout its range, or its range might be restricted (might be abundant at some locations or might be vulnerable to extirpation because of some factor of its biology). S4 G4 Secure under present conditions and typically with greater than 100 occurrences, or might be fewer with many large populations. Might also be rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery. S5 G5 Secure under present conditions with greater than 100 occurrences but might be rare in part of its range, especially at the periphery. S? G? Insufficient data were available for rankings; rank is uncertain. SQ GQ Taxonomic questions or issues.

SOURCES: Gould (2006); SK CDC (2006)

Federal Level The Committee on the Status of Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) assesses rare plants at the federal level; the protection of rare plant species is administered by Environment Canada. Many, but not all, species that are classified as being at risk (i.e., extirpated, endangered, threatened, special concern) by COSEWIC are addressed under the SARA, which applies to federal lands. Only species listed as endangered, threatened or extirpated are listed on Schedule 1 of the SARA and are protected by the legislation.

Provincial Level At the provincial level, rare plants are ranked and tracked by the following provincial agencies:  ANHIC in Alberta; and  CDC in Saskatchewan. In Alberta, rare species are listed on either the ANHIC tracking or watch lists, which were last fully updated in July 2006. Species ranked as S1 to S2/S3 are typically included on the tracking list. ANHIC recommends that more information be collected on species on the watch list (typically ranked S3 and S3/S4). Information on both tracking and watch list species from the project field surveys are presented. In Saskatchewan, rare species are listed on the CDC tracking list, which, unlike the ANHIC list, includes all species of concern and does not isolate those of lesser concern to a watch list. Mitigation of rare plants is recommended only for species with an S1 to S3 ranking. The CDC tracking list was last updated in October 2008. Alberta’s Wildlife Act includes seven species of plants. These species are all listed under SARA.

February 2009 Page 9A-10 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

An interim and draft guidance document has been applied by ASRD in response to mitigation for SARA rare plant species, based on the Environment Canada document Set-back Distance and Timing Restriction Guidelines: Prairie Plant Species At Risk. This document states that (Henderson 2007): “No new Class 3 activities (including pipelines) within 300 m of an endangered or threatened plant species unless utilizing existing similar disturbance:  No land expansion from current disposition;  No activity within 30 m of an individual plant within the existing footprint; and  Impact monitoring required.”

9A.2.4.2 Rare Plant Methods ANHIC and CDC rare plant databases, which include the listings for federally regulated plants, were searched for known rare plants in each township and range intersected by the Project. Taxonomic keys, photos and specimens of rare plant species identified in database searches were reviewed. In the event unexpected species were encountered, complete lists of rare plants and rare ecological communities were taken to the field for Alberta (Gould 2006; Allen 2008) and Saskatchewan (SK CDC 2008). The rare plant survey used a random meander technique. To the best ability, all vascular species observed were recorded on data sheets. Where rare species were found, GPS coordinates for the plant locations were recorded and the approximate location was indicated on the survey plan. Digital photographs were taken. A population count was done and an area 50 m on all sides of the rare plant location was searched to determine population extent. Species that could not be identified at the site were collected, where populations allowed, following the Alberta Native Plant Council (ANPC) Collecting Guidelines (ANPC 2006), and the plants were verified at the University of Calgary herbarium. Species that were collected but not identified in the field as rare do not have population estimates or extent.

9A.2.5 Weed and Invasive Non-Native Species Each site was surveyed for regulated weeds (Government of Alberta 2001; Government of Saskatchewan 1984, 1999), invasive agronomic species (ANPC 2008) and range weeds (Adams et al. 2005a). Range weeds include species that invade native prairie and are difficult to eliminate (including all restricted, most noxious and a few nuisance species) and disturbance-related species that increase under intensive grazing or soil disturbance. Some disturbance-related species are tame (such as smooth brome, timothy and Kentucky bluegrass) and some are native (such as foxtail barley, silverweed and strawberry). Particular attention was paid to species that could pose a problem for reclamation such as:  Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula);  Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense);  Perennial Sowthistle (Sonchus arvensis);  Annual Sowthistle (Sonchus asper);  Downy brome (Bromus tectorum);  Japanese brome (Bromus japonicus);  Kochia (Kochia scoparia);  Toadflax (Linaria vulgaris);  Scentless Chamomile, mayweed (Matricaria perforata);  Stork's bill (Erodium cicutarium);  Burdock (Arctium lappa);  Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare);  Absinthium sage (Artemisia absinthium);

Page 9A-11 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

 Russian thistle (Salsola tragus);  Baby’s breath (Gypsophila paniculata);  Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis);  Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis);  Crested Wheatgrass (Agropyron pectiniforme); and  Sweetclover (Melilotus officinalis).

9A.2.6 Plant Taxonomy Species names used in this report follow The Flora of Alberta (Moss 1983). For species present only in Saskatchewan, species names follow Budd’s Flora of the Canadian Prairie Provinces (Looman 1994). Exceptions include taxonomic changes adopted by:  ANHIC for rare plant species in Alberta (Gould 2006);  CDC for rare plant species in Saskatchewan (SK CDC 2008); and  Flora of North America (FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993) for Carex spp. Common names follow the List of All Vascular Plant Elements (ANHIC 2006). For species present only in Saskatchewan, common names follow the Taxa List for Vascular Plants (SK CDC 2008).

9A.3 Results

9A.3.1 Environmental Setting

9A.3.1.1 Alberta In Alberta, the Project crosses a number of natural regions and subregions (see Figure 9A-1a); each of which is characterized by different assemblages of vegetation species. The Project spans the Central Parkland Subregion of the Parkland Natural Region and two subregions in the Grassland Natural Region of Alberta – the Northern Fescue Subregion and the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion. Though no provincial or federally protected areas are intersected by the Project, there are areas that have been identified as having high ecological value; specifically:  large blocks of native grassland;  landscapes that support high diversity; and  excellent examples of specific landscape features.

February 2009 Page 9A-12 !

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9A-1a La Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Central Parkland Subregion The Central Parkland Natural Subregion occupies a wide area of central Alberta, acting as a transition zone between the Grassland Natural Region to the south and the Boreal Forest Natural Region to the north. This region can be subdivided into a southern, grassland-dominated portion and a northern aspen- dominated portion. Plains rough fescue (Festuca hallii) is the reference community in grassland areas, occurring on well- drained Black Chernozemic soils. However, more commonly, a plains rough fescue – western porcupine grass (Stipa curtiseta) – northern wheat grass (Agropyron dasystachyum) – Hooker’s oat grass (Helictotrichon hookeri) association dominates because of light to moderate grazing. More moist locations support a shrub community consisting of buckbrush (Symphoricarpos occidentalis) – silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata – prickly rose (Rosa acicularis) – chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) and Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia). Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) dominated sites throughout the region have variable understories, dependent on parent material and moisture. Typically a Saskatoon – prickly rose – beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta) – forb association dominates, although hay sedge (Carex siccata) and creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) are common in aspen understories on rapidly drained sites. Balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) often occurs with aspen and white spruce (Picea glauca) on moisture-rich sites supporting lush diverse understories. Wetlands are common in the Central Parkland, with cattail (Typha latifolia) – sedge (Carex spp.) marshes and willow (Salix spp.) shrublands scattered throughout the region on poorly drained Gleysolic soils. Treed fens with black spruce (Picea maritima) and larch (Larix laricina) and Labrador tea (Ledum groenlandicum) might also occur on Organic soils in the north on areas of shallow groundwater discharge in sand dune areas. The Central Parkland is the most densely populated subregion in Alberta including all or parts of the three largest cities in the province, Edmonton, Calgary and Red Deer. It is also the most agriculturally productive of all the subregions. Consequently, 50,000 acres of its 53,706 km2 are under cultivation (Natural Region Committee [NRC] 2006). About 80% of the plains and 65% of hummocky uplands have been converted to cropland while the remaining area is used for grazing (NRC 2006). Petroleum exploration, heavy oil and gravel extraction, as well as coal mining, occur in the area. In addition to direct vegetation loss by agriculture and industrial exploration and development, invasion of non-native species is currently one of the greatest threats to now uncommon plains rough fescue communities.

Northern Fescue Natural Subregion The Northern Fescue Natural Subregion occupies a 50- to 80-km wide area of Alberta. Bordered in the south by the Dry Mixedgrass and in the north by the Central Parkland Subregion, vegetation of the area is transitional between prairie and parkland types. The dominant undisturbed community type occurs on loamy well-drained Dark Brown Chernozems and is dominated by plains rough fescue. Under light grazing, fescue occurs in association with grasses such as western porcupine grass (Stipa curtiseta) and a variety of forbs. Sparsely vegetated grasslands include a mix of blue grama grass (Bouteloua gracilis); northern wheat grass, sand grass (Calamovilfa longifolia) and June grass (Koelaria macrantha) and occur on coarse textured well-drained Regosols and Rego Chernozems. Weakly saline, moderately well-drained sites support western wheatgrass – June grass – sedge and shrub communities. Moist areas found along river valley bottoms typically contain aspen and balsam poplar stands while willow – sedge – cattail communities occur in poorly drained depressions. The Northern Fescue Grasslands are among the most threatened biogeographic regions on the Canadian plains. One of the most agriculturally productive of the Alberta subregions, the Northern Fescue has

February 2009 Page 9A-14 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline undergone extensive cultivation. Today, this region contains approximately 60% cultivated fields and 40% native prairie used for grazing (NRC 2006; Alberta Prairie Conservation Forum [APCF] 2006). However, other estimates describe much higher levels of loss. Sweetgrass Consultants (1997) estimated the northern fescue grasslands originally covered 25.5 million ha of the prairie provinces, but only 5% or less of its original area remains. Alberta Environmental Protection (1997a) estimated that only 3% of the townships remain predominantly native fescue (greater than 75%), while another 22% are 51% to 75% native; however, this is apparently an underestimate and has been corrected (NRC 2006; APCF 2006; Adams, pers. comm. 2006). Industrial development has also been a major cause of vegetation loss and fragmentation in the northern fescue. According to Sweetgrass Consultants (1997), well site density in the northern fescue is second highest of the prairie subregions at 0.9 wells per square kilometre. This results in greater fragmentation, natural habitat loss and greater potential for invasion by exotic species.

Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion Located in the southeast corner of the Alberta and extending east into southwestern Saskatchewan, the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion is the largest subregion in the Grassland Natural Region, supporting the majority of remaining native grassland in Alberta (NRC 2006). This area has the longest growing season of all those in the Grassland Natural region, in part because of the drying effect of south-westerly winds carried over the Rocky Mountains (Adams et al. 2005b). Vegetation in the Dry Mixedgrass is characterized by low-growing, drought-tolerant grasses of both short and mid-range heights. Minor topographic changes in the area produce significant changes to soil characteristics and, consequently, plant community composition (NRC 2006). Dry sand dunes and plains typically support a needle and thread (Stipa comata) – sand-grass – June grass association on coarse textured Regosols while shrub communities occur on more moist interdune areas. On drier hummock crests, blue grama is the dominant species followed by needle and thread and a variety of herbs. At lower slope positions, calcareous soil supports needle and thread dominated communities. More moist locales produce a western wheatgrass – June grass on moderately well-drained Dark Brown Chernozems. Shrub communities, such as buckbrush, silverberry and prickly rose, typically occur in depressions, ravines and coulees while adjacent to rivers, willows and plains cottonwood (Populus deltoids) are common. Agriculture is the primary land use in the Dry Mixedgrass Prairie Subregion. Approximately 55% of the land base is under grazing while dry-land farming occupies about 35% and nearly 10% is under irrigation (NRC 2006). The northern section of the Dry Mixedgrass Prairie Subregion (north of Oyen) has large sections of plains northern fescue and western porcupine grass, more typical of the Mixedgrass Prairie (C. Tannas, pers. comm. 2006).

Environmentally Significant Areas The proposed RoW crosses ten environmentally significant areas in Alberta; four are of national significance and six are of provincial significance. For a list of environmentally significant areas intersected by the Project, see Table 9A-5.

Page 9A-15 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-5 Environmentally Significant Areas in Alberta Segment of the Project

Environmentally Significant Area Natural Subregion Significance Vegetation Value/Importance Alkali Creek Moraine Dry Mixedgrass Provincial  Extensive native grassland is scarce in Alberta Grassy Island Native Northern Fescue; National  One of a handful of undisturbed Prairie Dry Mixedgrass fescue grasslands in Canada Muddy Buttes Northern Fescue; Provincial  One of the larger blocks of Northern Dry Mixedgrass Fescue in Alberta Muddy Buttes Northern Fescue Provincial  The best exposed example of ice- Badlands thrust contorted bedrock in the Alberta plains Neutral Hills Northern Fescue Provincial  One of the largest and most diverse fescue grassland/parkland areas left in Alberta Red Deer River – Dry Mixedgrass Provincial  One of the most diverse river valley Alkali Creek/Dune systems in Alberta Point  Provincially significant populations of rare plants such as annual skeletonweed, box elder, bur sage, and prickly milk vetch  One of few areas of gravelly dune blowouts in Alberta Remount Dry Mixedgrass National  Part of one of the largest continuous blocks of native grassland in Canada Sounding Creek Dry Mixedgrass Provincial  Extensive block of dry mixed Native Prairie grassland  There are relatively few areas of extensive grassland in Alberta Sounding Dunes Central Parkland; National  Numerous small alkali lakes Northern Fescue  Diversity of vegetation communities  Dune and eolian/wetland complexes South Saskatchewan Dry Mixedgrass National  One of the premiere wild river Canyon sections in the Grassland Region of Canada; adjacent to one of the largest remaining blocks of native grassland in Canada

February 2009 Page 9A-16 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Each environmentally significant area is briefly described below.

Alkali Creek Moraine – Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area Located in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion, the Alkali Creek Moraine area is one of the few extensive blocks of grassland remaining in Alberta. Characteristics of this area include native, mixed grasslands with low shrubbery and ephemeral wetlands on strongly rolling hummocky moraines. In addition to its vegetative importance, this environmentally significant area supports bird species that are recognized by COSEWIC as vulnerable and endangered.

Grassy Island Native Prairie – Nationally Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Grassy Island area is one of the last remaining tracts of native fescue prairie in Canada. Fescue prairie originally covered 25.5 million ha in the prairie provinces; however, with 5% remaining, it is considered among the most threatened biogeographic regions in the Canadian plains. Located in the Northern Fescue and Dry Mixedgrass Natural subregions, this area has been relatively undisturbed by agricultural activities (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

Muddy Buttes – Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Muddy Buttes area is of the last remaining tracts of native fescue prairie in Canada. Located in the Northern Fescue and Dry Mixedgrass Natural subregions, this area has undergone some cultivation in the past. This area provides key mule and white-tailed deer habitat (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

Muddy Buttes Badlands – Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area Located in the Northern Fescue Subregion, the Muddy Buttes Badlands present the best exposed example of ice-thrust contorted bedrock in the Alberta plains. Ice thrust ridges include prominent displays of thrust sedimentary rock. Like the Muddy Buttes environmentally significant area, this area also provides key mule and white-tailed deer habitat (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

Neutral Hills - Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Neutral Hills are located in the Northern Fescue Subregion of Alberta. This environmentally significant area is one of the largest and most diverse grassland and parkland areas left in the province. Neutral Hills presents a transition zone between grassland in the south and parkland to the north. Highly diverse and significant landforms occur here including prominent ice-thrust ridges.

Red Deer River – Alkali Creek/Dune Point – Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Red Deer River is one of the most diverse valley systems in Alberta and is located in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion. This valley’s diversity is apparent in the variety of plant communities including coulee woodlands, shrubbery and grasslands. In addition, it includes habitats such as rock outcrops, eroding slopes, active sand dunes and riparian areas that can support a wide range of plant and animal life. Sand dunes that are part of this environmentally significant area’s landscape are often habitat to rare plant species including annual skeletonweed (Lygodesmia rostrata), bur sage (Franseria acanthicarpa), low milk vetch (Astragalus lotiflorus), nodding umbrella-plant (Eriogonum cernuum), annual lupine (Lupinus pusillus), shrubby evening-primrose (Oenothera serrulata) and prickly milk vetch (Astragalus kentrophyta) (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

Page 9A-17 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Remount – Nationally Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Remount area is one of the largest continuous blocks of native grassland in Canada. The area is located in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion and is adjacent to the Suffield Military Reserve. This area includes extensive mixed grassland and ephemeral wetland habitats that support several rare birds.

Sounding Creek Native Prairie - Provincially Significant Environmentally Significant Area The Sounding Creek area is one of the few extensive blocks of grassland left in Alberta. Located in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion, this environmentally significant area is characterized by moderate shrub cover in poorly drained areas.

Sounding Dunes – Nationally Significant Environmentally Significant Area Sounding Dunes environmentally significant area is located primarily in the Central Parkland Natural Region, with a small portion in the Northern Fescue Natural Subregion. This environmentally significant area includes the upper part of the south side of the Neutral Hills environmentally significant area, where there is some evidence of prominent ice-thrust ridges. This area is characterized by dune and eolian/wetland complexes and has numerous small alkali lakes. Vegetation commonly consists of rough fescue-porcupine grass interspersed with aspen groves (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

South Saskatchewan Canyon – Nationally Significant Environmentally Significant Area The South Saskatchewan Canyon is one of the premier wild river sections in the Grassland Region of Canada. Located in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion, its land features include eroded cutbanks, slump blocks, rugged badlands and extensive springs. Only 3% of this area is composed of wetlands, which are confined to temporary waterbodies and marshes associated with landform depressions (NRC 2006). Vegetation typically consists of coulee shrubbery and extensive riparian habitat. This canyon supports several rare plant species, including few-flowered aster (Aster pauciflorus), little seed rice-grass (Oryzopsis macrantha), pellitory (Parietaria pensylvanica), bushy cinquefoil (Potentilla paradoxa), clammyweed (Polanisia dodecandra), Carolina whitlow-grass (Draba reptans), smooth sweet-cicely (Osmorhiza longistylis), devil’s beggar-ticks (Bidens frondosa), wedge grass (Sphenopholis obtusata) nodding umbrella-plant (Eriogonum cernuum), western hawksbeard (Crepis occidentalis) and the nationally rare runcinate-leaved rush-pink (Stephanomeria runcinata) (Sweetgrass Consultants 1997).

9.6.1.1 Saskatchewan In Saskatchewan, the Project intersects two ecoregions of the Prairie Ecozone - Cypress Upland Ecoregion and the Mixed Grassland Ecoregion (see Figure 9A-1b). Ecozones are equivalent to natural regions in Alberta.

February 2009 Page 9A-18 ! !

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9A-1b La Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Cypress Upland Ecoregion Cypress Hills is an Interprovincial park and ecoregion that is unique to both Alberta and Saskatchewan. The ecoregion is surrounded by the Mixed Grassland Ecoregion; however, because of the topographic difference of 400 m to 500 m between this region and the surrounding prairies, it provides unique habitat for plants and animals. Tertiary and Cretaceous sediment covered with glacial till compose the glaciated portion of the Cypress Hills, whereas loessial deposits cover the unglaciated upper plateau regions. The base of the upland consists of dark brown soils supporting the mixed grassland. As the elevation rises, the region changes to a sub-montane fescue prairie on south-facing slopes and at the highest elevations greater than 1000 m, lodgepole pine, deciduous trees and shrub-mixed montane type of forest are representative of the landscape. Unique prairie species of plants and animals are present in the Cypress Upland Ecoregion. The Frenchman River and the Battle and Swift Current creeks drain the Cypress Hills to the east through deeply incised channels. These waterbodies support a wide variety of the unique Cypress Hills Upland species. The conditions in this region – topography, moisture, temperature – support free-range livestock operations and some production of cereal crops. A small portion of the RoW crosses into the eastern edge of the Cypress Upland Ecoregion northwest of Shaunavon – primarily at the Frenchman River, Battle, Bone and Swift creek crossings

Mixed Grassland Ecoregion Climatic, physiographic and vegetation characteristics of the Mixed Grassland Ecoregion in Saskatchewan follow those of the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion in Alberta. Environmentally significant areas are not defined in Saskatchewan. As a result, areas defined as having high ecological value following criteria used for environmentally significant area designation were identified. In addition, large blocks of native range also included. These areas are discussed below.

Native Prairie Tracts in Saskatchewan The RoW crosses through six areas of extensive native prairie in Saskatchewan (see Table 9A-6).

Table 9A-6 Native Prairie Tracts in Saskatchewan Segment of the Project

Native Range Tract Natural Subregion Significance Vegetation Value/Importance Masefield Community Dry Mixed grass Provincial  Large area used for livestock Pasture grazing  Important economical landscape for regional producers Frenchman River Valley Dry Mixed grass Provincial  Large block of dry mixed grass prairie  Key intact rangeland for cattle producers from throughout the region  Significant river valley for vegetation and wildlife diversity in southern Saskatchewan Big Stick Community Dry Mixed Grass Provincial  Large area used for livestock Pasture grazing  Important economical landscape for regional producers

February 2009 Page 9A-20 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-6 Native Prairie Tracts in Saskatchewan Segment of the Project (cont’d)

Native Range Tract Natural Subregion Significance Vegetation Value/Importance Val Marie Community Dry Mixed Grass Provincial  Large area used for livestock Pasture grazing  Important economical landscape for regional producers Swift Current Creek Cypress Upland Provincial  Significant creek valley for Valley diversity of vegetation and wildlife in the area.  Unique ecosystem in southern Saskatchewan  Vegetation change to sub- montane fescue prairie and aspen in higher moisture regions of coulees and valleys. Great Sand Hills Dry Mixed Grass National  Large continuous native grassland in Saskatchewan  Significant portion of the sand hill vegetation in Canada  Very susceptible to disturbances that decrease vegetation cover and can destabilize sand dunes

Community Pastures (Masefield, Big Stick, Val Marie) Community pastures are in the Dry Mixed Grassland Ecoregion and are a significant source of feed for both wildlife and domestic livestock. These pastures are large tracks of grassland that are managed for continued grass production to support regional livestock operations and are of significant economical value to the cattle industry. Many of the native species that are common to these pastures are susceptible to invasion by invasive non-native species, which diminish the grazing capacity. The community pastures intersected by the Project are the Masefield, Big Stick and Val Marie community pastures which are managed by the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA).

Frenchman River Valley The Frenchman River Valley is a large area of continuous native range that supports a variety of native prairie plants and wildlife characteristic of the region. This area is characterized by short, hot summers and long cold winters, combined with periodic intense droughts. The dry mixed grass prairie is a fragile ecosystem that has little resistance to disturbances because of the harsh nature of climatic conditions (Saskatchewan Eco Network 2008).

Swift Current Creek Valley This area is located west of Shaunavon, Saskatchewan and is a large block of native prairie in the Cypress Upland Ecoregion (SK CDC 2008). This area rises 400 m to 500 m above the surrounding areas and creates a unique ecosystem with changes in moisture gradients because of elevational changes in soils and vegetation. With the increased elevation, the dry mixed grasslands of the surrounding plains give rise to fescue prairie on south-facing slopes, lodgepole pine, white spruce, aspen and patches of fescue prairie are common in coulees and valleys (SK CDC 2008).

Page 9A-21 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Great Sand Hills The Great Sand Hills (GSH) is one of the largest contiguous areas of native prairie in Saskatchewan, The GSH represent a complex of largely stabilized sand dunes that supports what is considered the best sand hill vegetation in Canada. The area has been identified as one of five natural areas for Canadian Significance in Saskatchewan (Saskatchewan Eco Network 2008). These sand hills are susceptible to erosion and weedy plant invasion (Saskatchewan Eco Network 2008). They are susceptible to development and certain areas (Environmentally Sensitive 1 [ES1]) have been protected by the provincial government. The Project crosses a few sections of stabilized dunes in the outer reaches of the GSH, outside of the ES1 areas.

9A.3.2 Vegetation and Wetland Cover Classes Vegetation along the LAA was mapped to GVI standards, using vegetation surveys for ground-truthing (ASRD 2007). For detailed descriptions of each GVI site type, as well as potential plant communities encountered in each GVI site type, see Attachment 9A.I. The length of each GVI type is quantified by province and divided into contiguous and non-contiguous areas. Vegetation types include anthropogenic, native and upland, riparian and wetland areas. As only 40.2 km of the Alberta section of the RoW and 8.7 km of Saskatchewan section of the RoW are non-contiguous, much of the area crossed by the Projectis contiguous with existing linear developments (see Tables 9A-7 and 9A-12). The construction pipeline RoW is proposed to be 32-m wide. In native prairie, measures will be put in place to minimize disturbance, where practical. Additional temporary workspace might be required in areas of three-lift soil handling, grading, and watercourse, road and foreign-line crossings. Areas of additional temporary workspace will be identified closer to construction. Pump station sites are assumed to cover an area of about 2.5 ha and the Hardisty B Terminal footprint is anticipated to cover an area of about 16 ha. Valve sites will be situated in the boundaries of the pipeline RoW. The PDA is used to quantify and assess project effects on vegetation and wetlands at the site-specific scale. Analysis of PDA areas affected assumes a disturbance of the full (32 m) RoW. The analysis is presented on a linear distance basis (i.e., length of pipe) for the pipeline RoW and spatial areas for the mainline pump stations and the Hardisty B Terminal.

9A.3.2.1 Alberta RoW The Project crosses 265 km in Alberta, of which 40.2 km is non-contiguous. Of this non-contiguous RoW, 28.1 km (70%) is situated on native upland vegetation, riparian areas and wetlands (see Table 9A-7).

Table 9A-7 Land Classes in Alberta Along the Pipeline RoW Type Land Class GVI Code GVI Site Type Length (km) Non-contiguous Anthropogenic CN Crop – Non-irrigated 8.93 PN Tame Pasture or Hay Non- 3.08 irrigated Ru Rural 0.05 Anthropogenic Subtotal 12.06

February 2009 Page 9A-22 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-7 Land Classes in Alberta along the Pipeline RoW (cont’d)

Type Land Class GVI Code GVI Site Type Length (km) Non-contiguous Native/Upland BdL Badlands/Bedrock 0.24 (cont’d) BlO Blowouts/Solonetzic Order 0.05 Cy Clayey 1.35 Li Limy 0.12 Lo Loamy 7.36 Sa Sand 11.13 Sb Sub-irrigated 0.05 Sy Sandy 3.48 TB Thin Breaks 0.35 Native/Upland Subtotal 24.14 Riparian LtcD Lotic – Deciduous 0.33 LtcH Lotic – Herbaceous 1.25 LtcR Lotic – River 0.24 LtcS Lotic – Shrub 0.22 Riparian Subtotal 2.04 Wetland1 Class 1,2 LenT Lentic – Temporary 1.03 Class 3 LenS Lentic – Seasonal 0.16 Class 4, 5 LenSP Lentic – Semi to Permanent 0.65 Class 6 LenA Lentic – Alkali 0.10 Wetland Subtotal 1.95 Non-contiguous Total 40.2 Contiguous Anthropogenic CI Crop – Irrigated 0.18 CN Crop – Non-irrigated 69.34 Dev Developed 0.32 Pit Pits 0.15 PN Tame Pasture or Hay Non- 16.10 irrigated Ru Rural 0.46 Anthropogenic Subtotal 86.56 Native/Upland BdL Badlands/Bedrock 0.01 BlO Blowouts/Solonetzic Order 1.73 Cy Clayey 5.80

Page 9A-23 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-7 Land Classes in Alberta along the Pipeline RoW (cont’d)

Type Land Class GVI Code GVI Site Type Length (km) Contiguous Native/Upland (cont’d) Li Limy 0.11 (cont’d) Lo Loamy 57.26 Ov Overflow 0.61 Sa Sand 19.23 Sb Sub-irrigated 1.42 Sy Sandy 19.46 TB Thin Breaks 1.82 Native/Upland Subtotal 107.45 Riparian1 LtcD Lotic – Deciduous 0.29 LtcH Lotic – Herbaceous 14.04 LtcR Lotic – River 0.15 LtcS Lotic – Shrub 2.32 Riparian Subtotal 16.80 Wetland1 Class 1,2 LenT Lentic – Temporary 7.12 Class 4,5 LenSP Lentic – Semi to Permanent 3.07 Class 5 LenW Lentic – Open water 0.81 Class 6 LenA Lentic – Alkali 0.02 Class3 LenS Lentic – Seasonal 3.17 Wetland Subtotal 14.20 Contiguous Total 225.0 Alberta Total 265 NOTE: 1Classes refer to Stewart and Kantrud (1971) wetland class definitions

Anthropogenic Areas Anthropogenic areas include areas under cultivation, pasture and hay land, rural residences, and other developed areas. The PDA crosses 12.06 km of non-contiguous anthropogenic type and 86.56 km of anthropogenic type that is contiguous, for a total of 98.62 km of anthropogenic type in Alberta. Field surveys were not done in anthropogenic areas.

Native/Upland Areas

Tree and Shrub Cover For a summary of the length of PDA for each tree and shrub cover class in Alberta, see Table 9A-8. Tree cover in Alberta is generally aspen woodlands and human modified-aspen woodlands. For a list of all species found during field surveys in Alberta, including trees and shrubs, see Attachment 9A.III-2.

February 2009 Page 9A-24 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Grasslands Upland native grasslands comprise the majority of native vegetation along the PDA in Alberta (see Table 9A-7). The most common mappable site type along the PDA is Loamy, representing 107.45 km of the contiguous portion of the pipeline, and 24.14 km of the non-contiguous portion of the pipeline, for a total of 131.6 km. See Attachment 9A.I for a breakdown of communities typically found in each GVI site type.

Riparian Areas Lotic systems (streams and rivers) make up a small part of the prairie landscape and are often affected by water withdrawals for urban and rural developments, irrigation and industry. Although small in area, riparian areas often have the only trees in the southern prairie and provide a significant source of vegetation, bird and animal diversity. Many riparian areas contain Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome and narrow leaved hawk’s beard in the mesic to hygric areas. These species can increase in numbers after disturbance and might cause problems during reclamation.

Table 9A-8 Length of Each Tree and Shrub Cover Class in Alberta

Land Use Cover Class Description Tree Cover Shrub Cover Length (%) (%) (km) Non-contiguous 0 Open 0-5 0-5 24.27 1 Sparse shrub 0-5 6-40 6.31 2 Dense shrub 0-5 40-100 2.08 3 Open woodland 6-33 0-100 2.02 4 Woodland 33-66 0-100 2.96 5 Dense woodland 66-100 0-100 2.53 Contiguous 0 Open 0-5 0-5 180.39 1 Sparse shrub 0-5 6-40 25.45 2 Dense shrub 0-5 40-100 4.68 3 Open woodland 6-33 0-100 8.23 4 Woodland 33-66 0-100 5.63 5 Dense woodland 66-100 0-100 0.64 Total 265.2 The PDA crosses 2.04 km of lotic areas in non-contiguous areas, and 16.80 km of lotic areas in contiguous areas. Riparian areas range from herbaceous to treed lotic types (see Attachment 9A.I for complete descriptions of the lotic site types).

Wetlands Wetlands make up a small portion of the prairie landscape; however, they provide a significant source of vegetation, bird and animal diversity. Temporary wetlands (Class 1 and 2) which are characterized by having their deepest zone as a low-prairie zone and wet-meadow zone, are the most common wetland type intersected by the Project in Alberta (see Tables 9A-8 and 9A-9). Many seasonal and permanent ponds have been drained. The total length of wetlands in the PDA (see Table 9A-7) is an estimate, based

Page 9A-25 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline on air photo interpretation. Additional wetland surveys will be done in 2009 to refine the distribution of wetlands in the project footprint.

Table 9A-9 Number of GVI Wetlands Present in the PDA in Alberta

GVI Site Type Wetland Class Number of Wetlands LenT Class 1 and 2 161 LenS Class 3 52 LenSP Class 4 and 5 70 LenW Class 5 21 LenA Class 6 3 Total 307 During field surveys, Class 1 wetlands were found to typically contain Agropyron smithii, Poa pratensis, and Symphoricarpos occidentalis. Class 2 wetlands were found to typically contain Hordeum jubatum, and Poa palustris. Many wetlands contain Kentucky bluegrass in the mesic areas. The centre wet areas of larger wetlands often have large numbers of curled dock (Rumex crispa). These species can increase in numbers after disturbance and might cause problems during reclamation. For a list of wetlands surveyed in 2008 see Table 9A-10. Not all wetlands were surveyed in 2008 as efforts focused on sampling a distribution of wetlands and uplands across the PDA

Table 9A-10 Wetlands Surveyed in Alberta

Site ID Zone Easting Northing Wetland Class RA1D002 12 536220 5640249 1 RA1Y016 12 517283 5794560 1 RA1Y023 12 516430 5798918 1 RA2D011 12 558394 5623517 1 RA1K007 12 507087 5813538 2 RA1Y014 12 518037 5793510 2 RA1Y030 12 513593 5807844 2 RA2D019 12 537016 5638005 2 RA1D012 12 520116 5777785 3 RA1K006 12 507801 5812961 3 RA2D041 12 508660 5812307 3 RA2D042 12 502276 5818922 3 RA1D022 12 488364 5831822 4 RA1Y027 12 512527 5809163 4 RA1Y031 12 515438 5804552 4 RA1Y031 - P2 12 515438 5804552 4 RA2D049 12 494152 5829279 4 RA2D054 12 486218 5832787 4 RA1D020 12 488026 5832018 4 or 5 RA1Y020 12 516794 5796828 4 or 5

February 2009 Page 9A-26 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-10 Wetlands Surveyed in Alberta (cont’d)

Site ID Zone Easting Northing Wetland Class RA1Y022 12 516610 5798237 4 or 5 RA1Y024 12 516128 5800207 4 or 5 RA1Y028 12 512600 5809079 4 or 5 RA2D048 12 496285 5826494 6

9A.3.2.2 Alberta Pump Stations There are five pump stations in Alberta. See Table 9A-11 for the GVI site types by pump station. Of the five pump stations, three are situated completely on cropland and one is primarily on cropland with and small area of clayey soil dominated by aspen cover (Hardisty B terminal). The Lakesend East pump station is dominated by native areas on sandy sites with wooded cover with one corner, which might not be developed, infringing on a wetland.

9A.3.2.3 Saskatchewan RoW The Project crosses 259 km in Saskatchewan, of which 8.7 km is non-contiguous. Of the non-contiguous RoW, 2.55 km (29.3%) crosses native upland vegetation, riparian areas and wetlands (see Table 9A-12).

Table 9A-11 Land Classes at Alberta Pump Stations

Pump Station Name GVI Code GVI Site Type Area (ha) Hardisty B Terminal and Pump Station CN Crop – Non-irrigated 9.12 Cy Clayey 6.40 Total 15.52 Lakesend East LenSP Lentic – Semi to Permanent 0.22 Sy Sandy 2.29 Total 2.51 Monitor South CN Crop – Non-irrigated 2.35 LenT Lentic – Temporary – cultivated 0.16 Total 2.51 Oyen South CN Crop – Non-irrigated 2.31 LenS Lentic – Seasonal – cultivated 0.03 LenT Lentic – Temporary – cultivated 0.22 Total 2.56 Bindloss South CN Crop – Non-irrigated 2.55 Total 2.55

Page 9A-27 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-12 Land Classes in Saskatchewan Along the Pipeline RoW

Type Land Class GVI Code GVI Site Type Length (km) Non-contiguous Anthropogenic CN Crop – Non-irrigated 3.67 Dev Developed 0.22 PN Tame Pasture or Hay Non-irrigated 2.26 Anthropogenic Subotal 6.15 Native/Upland BlO Blowouts/Solonetzic Order 0.05 Cy Clayey 0.28 Lo Loamy 0.45 Sa Sand 0.77 Native/Upland Subotal 1.56 Riparian1 LtcH Lotic – Herbaceous 0.11 Riparian Subotal 0.11 Wetland1 Class 1,2 LenT Lentic – Temporary 0.77 Class 3 LenS Lentic – Season 0.07 Wetland1 Class 6 LenA Lentic – Alkali 0.05 Wetland Subotal 0.89 Non-contiguous Total 8.7 Contiguous Anthropogenic CN Crop – Non-irrigated 72.41 Dev Developed 0.30 PI Tame Pasture or Hay Irrigated 0.53 PN Tame Pasture or Hay Non-irrigated 68.56 Ru Rural 0.11 Anthropogenic Subotal 141.90 Native/Upland BdL Badlands/Bedrock 0.32 BlO Blowouts/Solonetzic Order 0.93 Cy Clayey 22.63 Gr Gravel 0.10 Li Limy 0.49 Lo Loamy 33.37 Ov Overflow 0.41 Sa Sand 14.49 Sb Subirrigated 1.04 SL Saline Lowland 0.07 SwG Shallow to Gravel 0.60 Sy Sandy 8.87 TB Thin Breaks 1.25 Native/Upland Subtotal 84.57

February 2009 Page 9A-28 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-12 Land Classes in Saskatchewan Along the Pipeline RoW (cont’d)

Type Land Class GVI Code GVI Site Type Length (km) Contiguous Riparian1 LtcC Lotic – Coniferous 0.02 (cont’d) LtcD Lotic – Deciduous 0.08 LtcH Lotic – Herbaceous 8.87 LtcR Lotic – River 0.15 LtcS Lotic – Shrub 0.58 Riparian Subotal 9.71 Wetland1 Class 1,2 LenT Lentic – Temporary 10.90 Class 3 LenS Lentic – Seasonal 1.64 Class 4, 5 LenSP Lentic – Semi to Permanent 1.35 Class 5 LenW Lentic – Open Water 0.43 Wetland Subotal 14.32 Contiguous Total 250.5 Saskatchewan Total 259 NOTE: 1 Classes refer to Stewart and Kantrud (1971) wetland class definitions

Anthropogenic Areas The PDA crosses 6.15 km of non-contiguous anthropogenic type, and 141.90 km of contiguous anthropogenic type, for a total of 148.05 km of anthropogenic type in Saskatchewan.

Native/Upland Areas

Tree and Shrub Cover For a summary of the length of the PDA through each tree and shrub cover class in Saskatchewan, see Table 9A-13. Tree cover in Saskatchewan is generally aspen woodlands and human modified-aspen woodlands. For a list of all species found during field surveys in Saskatchewan, including trees and shrubs, see Attachment 9A.III-2.

Grasslands Native/upland site types represent 84.57 km of the contiguous portion of the pipeline and 1.56 km of the non-contiguous portion of the pipeline, for a total of 86.1 km. See Attachment 9A.I for a breakdown of communities typically found in each GVI site type.

Page 9A-29 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-13 Length of Each Tree and Shrub Cover Class in Saskatchewan

Land Use Cover Class Description Tree Cover Shrub Cover Length (%) (%) (km) Non- 0 Open 0-5 0-5 8.42 contiguous 1 Sparse shrub 0-5 6-40 - 2 Dense shrub 0-5 40-100 0.27 3 Open woodland 6-33 0-100 - 4 Woodland 33-66 0-100 - 5 Dense woodland 66-100 0-100 - Contiguous 0 Open 0-5 0-5 240.60 1 Sparse shrub 0-5 6-40 6.83 2 Dense shrub 0-5 40-100 2.98 3 Open woodland 6-33 0-100 - 4 Woodland 33-66 0-100 0.08 5 Dense woodland 66-100 0-100 - Total 259.2

Riparian Areas The PDA crosses 0.11 km of lotic areas in non-contiguous areas and 9.71 km of lotic areas in contiguous areas. Riparian areas range from herbaceous to treed lotic types (see Attachment 9A.I for complete descriptions of the lotic site types). The majority of riparian area in Saskatchewan (8.87 km) is Lotic Herbaceous. Many riparian areas contain Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome and narrow leaved hawk’s beard in the mesic to hygric areas. These species can increase in numbers after disturbance and might cause problems during reclamation.

Wetlands Temporary wetlands are the most common wetland type along the PDA in Saskatchewan; a total of 11.67 km of uncultivated temporary wetlands are intersected (see Tables 9A-12 and 9A-14). During field surveys, Class 1 wetlands were found to typically contain Agropyron smithii, Poa pratensis, and Symphoricarpos occidentalis. Class 2 wetlands were found to typically contain Hordeum jubatu, and Poa palustris. Many wetlands were also found to contain Kentucky bluegrass in the mesic areas. The centre wet areas of larger wetlands often had large numbers of curled dock (Rumex crispa). These species can increase in numbers after disturbance and might cause problems during reclamation. See Table 9A-15 for a summary of wetlands surveyed during the 2008 field surveys. The total length of wetlands in the PDA (see Table 9A-12) represents an estimate based on air photo interpretation. Not all wetlands were surveyed in 2008 as efforts focused on sampling a distribution of wetlands and uplands across the PDA. Additional wetland surveys will be done in 2009 to refine the distribution of wetlands in the project footprint.

February 2009 Page 9A-30 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-14 Number of GVI Wetlands Present in the PDA in Saskatchewan

Stewart and Kantrud Wetland GVI Site Type Class Number of polygons encountered along PDA LenT Class 1 and 2 165 LenS Class 3 24 LenSP Class 4 and 5 16 LenW Class 5 6 LenA Class 6 1 Total 212

Table 9A-15 Wetlands Surveys in Saskatchewan

Site ID Zone Easting Northing Wetland Class no name 13 284240 5463432 1 RS1M022 12 697504 5483673 1 RST003 12 708765 5473773 1 RST016 12 703687 5477839 1 W207 13 283684 5463993 1 W523 12 625992 5551070 1 RS1B004 13 292461 5454483 2 RS1B006 13 287892 5459587 2 RS1D002 13 301798 5444272 2 RS1D009 13 303832 5442153 2 RS1M005 12 705111 5479170 2 RS1M008 12 706062 5475518 2 RS2D006 13 307436 5438800 2 RS2D008 13 306105 5440037 2 RS2D018 13 282563 5465147 2 RS2D026 12 704863 5476393 2 RS2D060 12 633862 5542746 2 RS2D063 12 634648 5541990 2 RSJ2002 13 291719 5455233 2 RSJ2004 13 291490 5455489 2 RSJ2006 13 294227 5452361 2 RSJ2010 13 287559 5460006 2 RSJ2011 13 287438 5460144 2 RSJ2014 13 286267 5461409 2 RSJ2016 13 284920 5462772 2 RSJ2017 13 284830 5462811 2 RST008 13 283347 5464331 2

Page 9A-31 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-15 Wetlands Surveys in Saskatchewan (cont’d)

Site ID Zone Easting Northing Wetland Class RST010 13 282535 5465164 2 W206 13 283777 5463916 2 W208 13 283518 5464164 2 RS1B014 12 658068 5523790 3 RS1D003? 12 739790 5445704 3 RS1D004? 12 750189 5436528 3 RS1D007 12 751736 5434646 3 RS1D012 13 306146 5439980 3 RS1D013 13 306705 5439449 3 RS1D016 13 307399 5438800 3 RS1D023 12 682111 5502547 3 RS1M011 12 694272 5486925 3 RS2D002 13 312937 5432044 3 RS2D011 13 303514 5442463 3 RS2D012 13 303861 5442128 3 RS2D016 12 717265 5466399 3 RS2D031 12 694438 5486747 3 RS2D050 12 657978 5523906 3 RS2D062 12 634851 5541831 3 RS2D071 12 601488 5577571 3 RST005 12 707808 5474308 3 RST045 12 579066 5602575 3 W30 13 307356 5438841 3 RS1B001 13 293552 5453137 4 RS1D024 13 647648 5533023 4 RS1M029 12 657470 5524579 4 W468A 12 647649 5533012 4 RS1M028? 12 653573 5528220 4 or 5 RS1M045 12 601499 5577571 4 or 5 RS2D058 12 634345 5524469 4 or 5 RST042 12 613142 5565407 5

February 2009 Page 9A-32 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

9.6.1.2 Saskatchewan Pump Stations There are three pump stations along the Saskatchewan segment of the Project. See Table 9A-16 for a summary of the GVI site types by pump station. The Fox Valley pump station is situated on cropland. The Piapot pump station is situated in a hayfield with a the southwestern corner infringing on a semi to permanenet wetland. (see Table 9A-16). The Grassy Creek pump station is located on a cultivated field with the northeastern corner comprised of a section of uncultivated loamy area. (see Table 9A-14).

Table 9A-16 Land Classes at Saskatchewan Pump Stations

Pump Station GVI Code GVI Site Type Area (ha) Fox Valley CN Crop – Non-irrigated 2.53 Total 2.53 Piapot LenSP Lentic - semi to permanant 0.15 PN Tame Pasture of Hay Non-irrigated 2.85 Total 3.00 Grassy Creek CN Crop – Non-irrigated 2.55 Lo Loamy 0.03 Total 2.58

9A.3.3 Rare Ecological Communities

9A.3.3.1 Alberta An element occurrence data set for rare ecological communities in all the townships intersected by the PDA was obtained from ANHIC. A 200-m buffer, 100 m on either side of the ditchline, was applied to the data. This identified no historical records of rare ecological communities that overlap the Project. See Tables 9A-17 and 9A-18 for a list of rare ecological communities found during the vegetation surveys conducted in 2008, as well as data from the existing Keystone Pipeline project surveys in areas contiguous with the Project. See Figure 9A-2 for locations of rare ecological communities across the PDA in Alberta. Site data recorded at these sites were extrapolated and presented on the aligments sheets to represent the potential extent of the communuites at these locations.

Table 9A-17 Rare Ecological Communities Recorded during 2008 Project Surveys in Alberta

Alberta Global Number of Scientific Name Common Name Provincial Rank Rank Occurrences Artemisia cana - Atriplex Silver Sagebrush - S2S3 None 1 nuttallii Nuttall's Atriplex Elaeagnus commutata - Silverberry / Western S3 None 2 Pascopyrum smithii Wheat Grass Festuca hallii grassland Plains Rough Fescue S1 None 3 Grassland Koeleria macrantha - June grass - Western S1S2 None 1 Pascopyrum smithii Wheat Grass

Page 9A-33 February 2009 !

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Table 9A-18 Rare Ecological Communities Recorded on Keystone Parallel Areas in Alberta

Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Occurrences Artemisia cana – Stipa Silver sagebrush – needle-and- S3 None 2 comata thread Festuca hallii – Stipa curtiseta Plains rough fescue – Western S212 None 1 – Carex spp. 1 Porcupine - Sedge Pascopyrum smithii – Carex Western wheat grass – low S1 None 4 stenophllya sedge Puccinellia nuttalliana Nuttall’s salt meadow grass S3? G3? 1 Stipa curtiseta – Festuca hallii Western porcupine grass - None2 None 11 plains rough fescue NOTES: Communities that were tracked under ANHIC 2006 but are no longer considered rare under ANHIC 2008 were not included. 1This community was considered a subtype of the rare ecological community Festuca hallii – Stipa curtiseta in the tracking lists from ANHIC 2006 (Allen 2006). 2Areas with greater than 10% rough fescue were considered to be rare ecological communities (Weerstra and Weerstra 1998) along the Keystone parallel.

Artemisia cana - Atriplex nuttallii (Silver Sagebrush - Nuttall's Atriplex) This S2S3 community is generally low in species diversity and occurs on steep badland slopes with varying degrees of erosion and aspects. Often, gravel and cobbles can consist of up to 75% of the cover, with silver sagebrush as the dominant species as well as Atriplex nuttallii (Nuttall’s atriplex), although its cover is usually less than 5%. The one site that fit this community type was situated midslope on a 45% (steep), northwest-facing xeric hill. Congruent to historical documentation of this community, bare ground was high, at 50%, and with low litter cover. The groundcover consisted of silver sagebrush (2%) and Nuttall’s atriplex (5%). The dominant species, at 30% ground cover, was Carex filifolia (thread-leaved sedge). Other species such as Eriogonum flavum (yellow umbrella-plant) and western wheat grass were also present which is typical of the Silver sagebrush – Nuttall’s atriplex community.

Elaeagnus commutata – Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) (Silverberry / Western Wheat Grass) The Silverberry / Western Wheat Grass community is ranked S3 in Alberta. It also occurs in Saskatchewan and in Montana and North Dakota in the United States (NatureServe 2008). This community type is specific to silverberry that form open thickets in mixed grasses. In most records, this community is associated with buckbrush and Rosa woodsii (common wild rose). Glacial formations such as eskers, till and outwash are often suitable habitats (NatureServe 2008). Two sites matched the description for this community type. The first site (RA1Y012) was situated midslope on a 5% west to southwest-facing hill. This submesic site had 40% silverberry and 10% western wheat grass cover. Other common species included Kentucky bluegrass, prickly rose and June grass. The second site (RA1Y025) was a mesic, wooded shrubland. Here, silverberry was at 50% ground cover

Page 9A-35 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline and western wheat grass was 10%. With similar common species as the first site, this wooded area also had northern wheat grass present.

Festuca hallii Grassland (Plains Rough Fescue Grassland) Historically, the plains rough fescue grassland community has been found in a variety of sites, including on level terrain, lower slopes, upland and hummocky areas and all slopes with variable aspect (north- facing in the southern range and south-facing in the northern range). Similarly, the sites observed during the field study can be associated with a moderate shrub layer, and Festuca hallii should be the obvious dominant species. In addition, typically Stipa curtiseta (western porcupine grass) is almost always present, although with less cover than the plains rough fescue (Allen 2008). This S1 community was found at three sites, two of which were within 200 m from one another. The first of these two close sites (RA1D009) was conducted on the upper slope of a 10% southwest-facing hillside. Sillverberry was the dominant shrub and had 40% ground cover. The second nearby site (RA1D010) was also on a hillside, facing south to southwest, but the slope here was steeper (30%) and there was much less shrub cover. The plains rough fescue cover of these two sites was 40% and 45%, respectively. The third site, though not near the first two, was very similar in that it was on a 30% south- to southwest-facing hillside. Plains rough fescue cover was 30%. The dominant grass was western porcupine grass; however, its presence might have been because of a disturbance to the site.

Koeleria macrantha – Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) (June Grass - Western Wheat Grass) The June grass - western wheat grass community typically occurs on drier upland sites in the Peace River Parkland Subregion but it has also been found in the Central Parkland Subregion on lower slopes and level sites. Several other grass species have been associated with this community including Agropyron albicans (awned northern wheat grass) (Allen 2008). This S1S2 community type was found once during field studies. The site was situated on the lower slope of a west-facing 12% slope. In addition to the two dominant grass species required for this community type, needle-and-thread was prevalent.

Artemisia cana / Stipa comata (Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread) The Silver sagebrush / needle-and thread community is ranked S3 in Alberta and occurs in both the Dry Mixedgrass and Mixedgrass subregions. Most often this community has been found on gentle slopes of variable aspects with good drainage and sandy, medium-textured soils. Silver sagebrush should be the dominant shrub and averages of 5% to 25% are typical. Blue grama can sometimes be co-dominant with other graminoids, including June grass and western wheat grass. Two occurrences of this rare ecological community were identified along the contiguous part of the RoW in Alberta.

Festuca hallii –Stipa cutiseta- Carex spp (Plains Rough Fescue – Western Porcupine Grass – Sedge) This community occurs in the Central Parkland and Northern Fescue subregions on level to undulating topography and hummocky terrain. Plains rough fescue in usually the most abundant species, followed by western porcupine grass. Plains rough fescue – western porcupine grass is commonly found on Black and Dark Brown Chernozemic soils, derived from lacustrine, morainal or alluvial parent materials. Occasionally the community is located on Solonetzic soils.

February 2009 Page 9A-36 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Plains rough fescue – western porcupine grass was observed for approximately 2 km. This community is tracked as an S2 rare ecological community in ANHIC 2006 and is considered a subtype of the plains rough fescue – western porcupine grass community (Allen 2006).

Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) – Carex stenophllya (Western wheat grass – Low sedge) This S2S3 herbaceous community has been recorded in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion of Alberta, particularly in the Suffield area. The western wheat grass - low sedge community is found in micro swales and overflow positions on loamy soils, where the sites are level to gently sloping. Sites generally have moderately well to well-drained conditions and have favourable internal drainage, leading to favourable rooting conditions. Vegetation cover is usually over 70%; however, it can be as low as less than 5%. Bare ground averages 10% but can be up to 80%. Western wheat grass and low sedge are co-dominant and green needle grass can have cover up to 70%. Other associated plants are Artemisia ludoviciana (prairie sagewort) and Chenopodium pratericola (goosefoot). This community was observed four times along the proposed RoW where it is contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project.

Puccinellia nuttalliana (Nuttalls Salt-Meadow Grass) Nuttall’s salt-meadow grass community is found in various subregions across Alberta, including the Dry Mixedgrass, Northern Fescue, Central Parkland and Peace River Parkland. Sites that support this community are generally associated with saline or alkaline alluvial deposits next to standing water margins and seepage areas. As a result of these site conditions, the water table is high and tends to be at or very near the surface. Puccinella nuttallliana (Nutall’s salt-meadow grass) is dominant with Distichlis stricta (salt grass) prominent in some stands. Other associated species with this community include foxtail barley, Scripus paludosus (prairie bulrush), Salicorna rubra (samphire) and Triglochin maritima (seaside arrow grass). One occurrence of this rare ecological community was identified in a wetland along the contiguous part of the RoW.

Stipa cutiseta - Festuca halli (Western Porcupine Grass - Plains Rough Fescue) This is a late seral grassland community co-dominated by western porcupine grass and plains rough fescue, a subtype of the provincially threatened (S2) plains rough fescue – western porcupine grass community (Weerstra and Weerstra 1998). This community is tracked in ANHIC 2006 and is included as a rare ecological community because of the percentage of fescue that occupies the site (Allen 2006). This community occurs in the Central Parkland and Northern Fescue subregions on level to undulating topography and hummocky terrain. Western porcupine grass is usually the most abundant species, followed by June grass, sedges, northern wheatgrass and plains rough fescue (Adams et al. 2004). This community is found on loamy and shallow-to-gravel, poorly to well-drained Orthic Dark Brown soils in gentle to strongly undulating topography. Relatively heavy grazing pressure threatens plains rough fescue canopy cover, eventually eliminating it entirely. Spring grassland fires have been found to increase the cover and floral display of plains rough fescue, while reducing the cover of western porcupine grass (Gucker 2005). These effects might result in recovery to a fescue dominant community. Eleven occurrences of this rare ecological community were noted along the contiguous part of the RoW.

Page 9A-37 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

9A.3.3.2 Saskatchewan See Table 9A-19 for a list of rare ecological communities found during the vegetation surveys conducted in 2008. As rare ecological communities are not tracked in Saskatchewan, ANHIC rare ecological communities have been applied. See Figure 9A-2 for locations of rare ecological communities across the PDA in Saskatchewan. Site data recorded at these sites were extrapolated and presented on the aligments sheets to represent the potential extent of the communuites at these locations.

Table 9A-19 Rare Ecological Communities Record during Project Surveys of in Saskatchewan Alberta Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name Common Name Rank1 Rank Occurrences Acer negundo/ Prunus Manitoba maple / Choke S1S2 G3 1 virginiana cherry Artemesia cana / Stipa comata Silver sagebrush/Needle-and- S3 G3 1 thread Artemisia cana / Stipa comata Silver sagebrush / Needle- S3 None 3 - Calamovilfa longifolia and-thread - Sand grass Artemisia cana / Stipa comata Silver Sagebrush / Needle- S2? None 1 - Pascopyrum smithii - and-thread-Western Wheat Bouteloua gracilis Grass - Blue Grama Calamovilfa longifolia - Stipa Sand Grass - Needle-and- S3 G3 10 comata Thread Elymus lanceolatus - Northern Wheat Grass - S2 None 1 Pascopyrum smithii Western Wheat Grass Festuca campestris - Stipa Mountain Rough Fescue - S2S3 None 1 curtiseta Western Porcupine Grass Festuca hallii grassland Plains Rough Fescue S1 None 1 Grassland Pascopyrum smithii - Western wheat grass - pasture S2S3 None 1 Artemesia frigida - Opuntia sagewort - prickly pear polycantha grassland grassland Pascopyrum smithii - Weatern wheat grass - prairie S1S2 None 2 Artemesia ludoviciana sagewort Puccinellia nuttalliana Nuttall's salt-meadow grass S3? G3? 1 Community community Salix bebbiana / Cornus Beaked willow / Red-osier S3? None 1 stolonifera dogwood Sarcobatus vermiculatus / greasewood/salt grass - S2 None 1 Distichlis stricta - Pascopyrum western wheat grass smithii Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Greasewood/Western wheat S2S3 None 1 Pascopyron smithii grass Sporobolus cryptandrus semi- Sand dropseed semi- active S2 None 1 active dune dune NOTE: 1 As Saskatchewan does not track rare communities, this table uses tracked ecological communities from Alberta, as described by ANHIC. Some of these communities are tracked at a global level as well.

February 2009 Page 9A-38 !

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9A-3 La Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Acer negundo/Prunus virginiana (Manitoba Maple/Choke Cherry) This community extends to the Central Parkland Subregion; however, it occurs primarily in the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Region. Landscapes that support this community type, including terrace fans, floodplains of streams, lakes, rivers, springs or ponds, typically have moisture levels that are higher than the local precipitation and water tables that are high in the spring and low in dry periods. Areas that collect snow such as protected slopes or V-shaped valleys also support this community type. During August 2008, one community (RS2D057) of Manitoba maple/choke cherry was encountered in a shrubby ravine. The dominant species in the tree layer was Acer negundo (Manitoba maple) (20%); other species present included choke cherry (15%), Prunus pensylvanica (pin cherry) (15%), willow species. (15%), buckbrush (10%) and the dominant grass, Kentucky bluegrass (20%).

Artemisia cana / Stipa comata (Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-thread) The Silver sagebrush / needle-and-thread community is ranked S3 (in Alberta) and occurs in both the Dry Mixedgrass and Mixedgrass subregions. Most often this community has been found on gentle slopes of variable aspects with good drainage and sandy, medium-textured soils. This community was found at one occurrence. The site (RST021) was conducted on a subxeric, exposed crest. The vegetation cover was 20% silver sagebrush and 5% needle-and-thread. Blue grama, June grass and western wheat grass were also present in low amounts. Artemisia cana / Stipa comata - Calamovilfa longifolia (Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-thread - Sand Grass) This S3 community usually occurs on well-draining slopes varying from gentle to steep in the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion. Silver sagebrush averages 30% cover, with needle-and-thread more prevalent than Calamovilfa longifolia (sand grass). Historically, the soils of these communities have been from fluvial and eolian parent material. This community type was encountered three times. The first site (RS2D061) was a slight northwest- facing, submesic slope. This site was did not have good range health and, accordingly, had low species variety with Agropyron pectiniforme (crested wheat grass), a noxious weed, and Kentucky bluegrass, an invasive species. Silver sagebrush, needle-and-thread and sand grass covers were 20%, 10% and 0.1%, respectively. The second site (RS2T020) had 20%, 10% and 20% covers for the same respective species. Blue grama had very high vegetation cover (50%) and Kentucky blue grass was another mentionable graminoid, though invasive, with 10% cover. Both litter and non-vascular overall cover was 15%. The third site (RS2T022) had much better range health and had silver sagebrush, needle-and- thread and sand grass coverage of 10%, 10% and 15%, respectively.

Artemisia cana / Stipa comata – Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) - Bouteloua gracilis (Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-thread - Western Wheat Grass - Blue Grama) Typically, this Dry Mixedgrass community has about 13% exposed soil. Historical recordings of this community type show that moss and lichen cover might be very high, averaging 34%. This was not the case for the sites, suggesting the influence of disturbance. Other typical characteristics of this community type include a low Artemisia cana cover and association with immature soils with calcium carbonates near or on the surface, i.e., limy sites (Allen 2008). This S2? community was observed once at site RS2D025, a subxeric upper slope. The site had 10% silver sagebrush and did not have other shrubs present.

February 2009 Page 9A-40 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Calamovilfa longifolia - Stipa comate (Sand Grass - Needle-and-Thread) The sand grass – needle-and-thread community has been most documented in the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion. In Alberta, this community has been associated with dune fields, well-drained soil and gentle slopes (less than 15%). Both blue grama and June grass are common to these communities, but always with less cover than needle-and-thread. This community might be very vulnerable to invasion by exotic brome grasses, including Bromus tectorum (downy chess) (Allen 2008). This S3 community was found at ten sites, eight of which were all observed in a 6-km area, ranging from a few hundred metres to a few kilometres apart. These sites were consistent in vegetation cover. Sand grass and needle-and-thread covers averaged 20% and 30%, respectively. Other mentionable grasses were blue grama and June grass. Blue grama cover was relatively high, averaging 30% to 40% and might indicate that, on average, these sites might be overgrazed. Common wild rose was also consistently present at around 5% cover. Overall, the terrain was slight rolling slopes and these eight sites were surveyed at various slope positions. Differences in slope position are likely the biggest cause of any variation in vegetation. These sites were all subxeric to xeric and had range health scores varied from 72 to 100. The other two sites (RS2T016 and RS1M042), although not close in proximity to the previously discussed eight sites, were also very similar in vegetation cover and terrain.

Elymus lanceolatus (Agropyron dasystachyum) – Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) (Northern Wheat Grass - Western Wheat Grass) This wheat grass community is found in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion on moderately well to well-drained soils. The soils that host this community are generally brown solonetz and brown solodized solonetz. Other species that have been known to co-inhabit these sites are pasture sagewort, blue grama, western porcupine grass, June grass and Kentucky bluegrass. The Northern Wheat Grass – Western Wheat Grass community was found at one site, RSJ2009, during the summer surveys. RSJ2009 had a cover of 5% for both wheat grasses and a vegetative cover of 55%. Kentucky blue grass was found at this site.

Festuca campestris – Stipa curtiseta (Mountain Rough Fescue - Western Porcupine Grass) This community is generally restricted to the Cypress Hills Natural Region and is found on dry gravel slopes of strong southerly aspect. The soils that support this community are well-drained Orthic Black and Orthic Dark Brown Chernozems. Common wild rose and silverberry are often present. Cover of mountain rough fescue averages 20%, whereas western porcupine grass has an average cover of 10%. One site (RS1M014) of this community type was found during the spring survey. Mountain rough fescue was the dominant species with a cover of 20%. Several shrub species including Juniperus horizontalis, silverberry, Potentilla fruticose (shrubby cinquefoil), common wild rose prairie rose and buckbrush were present.

Festuca hallii Grassland (Plains Rough Fescue Grassland) Historically, the plains rough fescue grassland community has been found to occur in a variety of sites, including on level terrain, lower slopes, upland and hummocky areas and all slopes with variable aspect (north-facing in the southern range and south-facing in the northern range). This community can be associated with a moderate shrub layer, and plains rough fescue should be the obvious dominant species. In addition, typically western porcupine grass is almost always present, although with less cover than the plains rough fescue (Allen 2008).

Page 9A-41 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

This S1 community was found at one site. The RS1B013 site was in a level area with no signs of recent grazing and with very good range health. Kentucky bluegrass comprised 10% of the vegetation and was the only other mentionable grass. High litter was also indicative of good range health and constituted 50% of the overall ground cover. Of concern, several invasive species including Agropyron pectiniforme (crested wheat grass) and Cirsium arvense (creeping thistle) were present in the old adjacent pipeline right of way, and might pose a problem to the native site surveyed.

Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) – Artemisia frigida – Opuntia polycantha Grassland (Western wheat grass - Pasture sagewort - Prickly pear Grassland) This S2/S3 community is generally found in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion. Soils that support such a community often are cultivated, as the fine textured lacustrine clay soils have excellent moisture holding capacity. Vegetative cover varies from site to site, with a maximum of 60%, and a minimum of 20%. Western wheat grass is always present; pasture sagewort and prickly pear are usually present and spear grasses are usually absent. One site (RST017) was found during field surveys. This site was dominated by Bouteloua gracilis; however, western wheat grass, pasture sagewort and Opuntia polycantha (prickly pear) were all also present. Spear grasses were not found at this site. Vascular cover at this site was 60%.

Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) – Artemisia ludoviciana (Western wheat grass - Prairie sagewort) The Dry Mixedgrass Subregion supports this S1/S2 community of western wheat grass and prairie sagewort. This community generally occupies gentle slopes and depressions with variable aspects. Soils that host this community are orthic regosols that are imperfectly to well drained. Vegetative cover is generally 60%; western wheat grass (45%) and prairie sagewort (9%) are the dominant cover species. During the surveys, two sites (RS1D002 and RS1D009) were found that host a western wheat grass – prairie sagewort complex. RS1D002 had 40% cover of western wheat grass and 5% cover of prairie sagewort. The second site is part of a large wetland; it had 30% western wheat grass and 2% prairie sagewort.

Puccinellia nuttalliana (Nuttall's salt-meadow grass) Nuttall’s salt-meadow grass community is found in various subregions, including the Dry Mixedgrass, Northern Fescue, Central Parkland and Peace River Parkland. Sites that support this community are generally associated with saline or alkaline alluvial deposits next to standing water margins and seepage areas. The water table is high and tends to be at or very near the surface. Nutall’s salt-meadow grass is dominant with salt grass prominent in some stands. Other associated species with this community include foxtail barley, prairie bulrush, samphire and arrow grass. One community of Nutall’s salt-meadow grass was identified during the surveys. RS1D022 was next to stagnant creek; this site had a 30% cover of Nutall’s salt-meadow grass.

Salix bebbiana / Cornus stolonifera (Beaked willow / Red-osier dogwood) This community is considered an S3? rank (in Alberta) and is found throughout the Grasslands Natural Region. Landscapes that support this community include riparian areas of alluvial terraces and moist soils near seeps and springs. During the spring survey, one occurrence (RS1B012) of this type was encountered. This area was considered part of the Cypress Hills complex and was in the flood plain of Bone Creek. The range health

February 2009 Page 9A-42 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline of this site was considered poor because of severe pugging and trails from cattle, as well as introduced species. Salix bebbiana (beaked willow) was the dominant tall shrub and comprised 30% of the cover.

Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Distichlis stricta – Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) (Greasewood / Salt Grass – Western Wheat Grass) The greasewood/salt grass – western wheat grass community is ranked S2 in Alberta and occurs in the Dry Mixedgrass Subregion. It is often associated with sodic and saline overflow sites where soils are well to moderately well drained. These communities are found on level to very gently sloping areas. Overall, these communities support a 60% to 40% cover of vegetation to exposed soil; the cover of Sarcobatus vermiculatus has a cover of around 12% on average. This community was found once during the spring surveys (RS1D019). The site was a patchy saline lowland with some residual water. Sarcobatus vermiculatus was present and Distichlis stricta dominated the vegetation cover at 60%. Pascopyrum smithii had a cover of 10%.

Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii (Agropyron smithii) (Greasewood / Western Wheat Grass) The Greasewood/Western wheat grass community is often associated with fine textured alkaline soils on alluvial terraces on floodplains in valleys; these conditions can sometimes lead to perched water tables. Greasewood typically varies from 20% to 60% cover and is always present. Western wheat grass can have up to 98% cover, however, it is not always present. One community of greasewood/western wheat grass was encountered during the spring surveys (RST016). This community was found on the outskirts of a saline wetland. Greasewood was a common species and western wheat grass was the dominant species.

Sporobolus cryptandrus semi active dune (Sand Dropseed semi- active dune) The Sand Dropseed semi-active dune community is listed as an S2 community (in Alberta). The Dry Mixedgrass and Central Parkland natural regions have stabilized sand dunes that support this community type generally on south-facing slopes. Soils are rapidly drained, coarse textured and have little organic matter. Sites that host this community are considered unstable and are constantly changing as a result of sand movement. During the surveys, one site of the sand dropseed semi-active dune community, RS1M038, was encountered. This site was on a south-facing slope and was dominated by Sporobolus cryptandrus (sand dropseed) (30% cover) and needle-and-thread (30% cover).

9A.3.4 Rare Plant Species

9A.3.4.1 Alberta An element occurrence data set for historical rare plant occurrences in all the townships intersected by the PDA was obtained from ANHIC. A 200-m buffer, 100 m on either side of the ditchline, was applied to the data. After applying the buffer, only three rare plant species occurrences – Pursh’s milk vetch (Astragalus purshii), Sand nut-grass (Cyperus schweinitzii), Low townsendia (Townsendia exscapa)– were intersected (see Table 9A-20). None of these species are SARA listed. During the 2008 and Keystone surveys, 17 rare plant species were encountered along the PDA, of which slender mouse-ear-cress and tiny cryptanthe SARA-listed species on Schedule 1 were identified. Based on provincial ranking, there are four S1, seven S2 and four S1S2 ranked species along the PDA, as well as two other species with lower ranks (see Table 9A-21). For a summary of the rare plant species

Page 9A-43 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline encountered along the Keystone parallel, see Table 9A-21. See Figure 9A-4 for locations of all rare plants across the PDA in Alberta. For a complete list of species encountered during the surveys in Alberta and Saskatchewan, see Attachment 9A.III.

Table 9A-20 ANHIC Historical Occurrences of Rare Plants in the Vicinity of the Project in Alberta

Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name with Authority Common Name Rank Rank Occurrences Astragalus purshii Dougl. ex Hook Pursh's milk vetch S2 G5 1 Cyperus schweinitzii Torr. sand nut-grass S2 G5 1 Townsendia exscapa (Richards.) Porter low townsendia S2 G5 2

Table 9A-21 Rare Plant Occurrences Recorded During 2008 Surveys of the Project in Alberta and for the Keystone Project

Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name with Authority Common Name Rank Rank Occurences Anagallis minima (L.) Krause Chaffweed S1S2 G5 5 1 Aster pauciflorus Nutt. few-flowered aster S2 G4 3 1 Endolepis dioica (Nutt.) Standl. Endolepis S3 (watch) G4? 1 1 Carex parryana var. parryana Dewey Parry's sedge S1S2 G4T4 2 Cerastium brachypodum (Engelm. Ex. Gray) mouse-ear chickweed S1 G5 3 1 B.L. Robins. Cryptantha minima (Rydb.) tiny cryptanthe S1 G5 131 Halimolobos virgata (Nutt.) O.E. Schulz slender mouse-ear- S1S2 G4 101 cress Lysimachia hybrida Michx. lance-leaved loosestrife S2 G5 6 1 Muhlenbergia asperifolia (Nees & Meyen ex Scratchgrass S2 (watch) G5 1 Trin.) Parodi Parietaria pensylvanica Muhl. ex Willd. American pellitory S2 (watch) G5 2 Potentilla finitima Kohli & Packer sandhillscinquefoil S1 G2G4Q 2 Potentilla plattensis Nutt. low cinquefoil S1S2 G4 2 Sisyrinchium septentrionale Bickn. pale blue eyed-grass S2 G3G4 2 Solidago mollis Bartl. velvety goldenrod S3 G5 4 Spergularia salina J. & K. Presl salt-marsh sand spurry S2 G5 1 1 Symphyotrichum campestre var. campestre meadow aster S2 G5 1 1 (Nutt.) Nesom. (synonym Aster campestris Nutt.) Torreyochloa pallida (Torr.) Church var. few-flowered salt- S1 G5T5 1 1 pauciflora (J. Presl) meadow grass

NOTES: SARA-listed species are bolded. 1 All occurrence data for these species occur along the portion of the Project that is contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. The exceptions are Aster pauciflorus, where one of three occurrences was along the contiguous portion, and Lysimachia hybrid, where four of six occurrences were along the contiguous portion of the pipeline.

February 2009 Page 9A-44 !

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Anagallis minima (Chaffweed) Anagallis minima (chaffweed) ranks as S1S2 in Alberta and S2 in Saskatchewan (Gould 2006; NatureServe 2008). A total of 11 previously identified populations exist in Alberta, at least half of which occur in the southeastern grasslands (ANHIC 2006). Chaffweed is a globally cosmopolitan species, with discontinuous distribution (BC CDC 2006). This plant commonly grows in moist soils and muddy margins of wetlands, in addition to seasonally flooded lowlands and acidic/damp soils of forests (Kershaw et al. 2001; Moss 1983). Population densities might fluctuate dramatically with annual precipitation. Chaffweed is an annual forb and there is no reported information on propagule dispersal or other reproductive strategies. Chaffweed was observed at five different locations during field work conducted in 2006 to 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. These locations were in an area where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Populations were associated with subhygric to hydric soils, and ranged in size from greater than 100 to many thousands of plants. Three of the five sites were wetlands, while the other two were lowland, depressional areas.

Aster pauciflorus (Few-flowered aster) In Alberta, Aster pauciflorus (few-flowered aster is ranked S2 and is included in the ANHIC tracking list. In Saskatchewan, this plant is vulnerable and is ranked S3; globally it is ranked G4 (Gould 2006; Natureserve 2008). Its distribution in Canada includes the Northwest Territories and the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba (USDA, NRCS 2008). Although some literature describes these perennials as inhabiting only dry or drying and open sites, the few flowered aster has also been found along streams, in ditches, deserts, inland salt marshes and dry prairie areas. The few-flowered aster is expected to prefer alkaline soils and does well in alluvial soils with halophytic vegetation (Moss 1983; FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993). The few-flowered aster was found at two separate sites during field studies conducted for the Project. One site was an alkaline wetland with several willow species and the other site was a low prairie site with moist soils. In field work conducted for the existing Keystone Pipeline project, this rare species was also discovered. Of importance to the Project, there was one population found in a site (SQ6119.3) occurring where the two pipelines will be contiguous. The population consisted of thousands of individuals and occurred in an alkaline wetland in east-central Alberta. This occurrence fell outside of the existing Keystone Pipeline project PDA.

Endolepis dioica (Endolepis) Endolepis dioica (Endolepis) has other genus species names, including Atriplex suckleyi and Atriplex dioica. In Canada, this plant is found in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario, although there are accounts of it being widespread across the country. In Alberta it is considered a vulnerable, S3 species. Globally it is ranked G4? (Gould 2006; NatureServe 2008). The phenotypic similarities between A. suckleyi and another chenopod, A. prostrate, have pushed taxonomists to distinguish between the two species via genetics. A. prostrata is a diploid (2n = 18) while A. suckleyi is a tetra or hexaploid (2n = 36, 54). However, it is thought that intermediates between these two species might exist. Alongside another chenopod species, A. heterosperma, A prostrata is invading the habitat of A. suckleyi in many parts of Europe, where it is indigenous (FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993). This rare species was encountered once during field studies conducted in 2006 to 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. The site was located in an area where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. This site was an alkali flat with mesic soils in the badlands. There was low very little vegetation; the dominant species were Nuttall’s salt-meadow grass and Suaeda calceoliformis (western sea-blite). The full extent of its population was undetermined.

February 2009 Page 9A-46 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Carex parryana var. parryana (Parry’s sedge) Carex parryana var parryanna (Parry’s sedge) is ranked S1S2 and globally ranked G4T4 (Gould 2006; NatureServe 2008). Parry’s sedge is a rhizomatous perennial that typically inhabits swampy areas (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). It is native and present in most of Canada with the exception of Quebec, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories (USDA, NRCS 2008). This species was observed at two sites. Both sites were located south of Highway 600 on the proposed RoW. At the first site, 32 individuals were found in a 10 m by 30 m area that had moist to saturated sandy soils. The second site (5 m by 3 m) had mesic soils, with an estimated 38 culms, up to 50% of which were pollenized. At both sites, the overall extent of the population was not fully defined.

Cerastium brachypodum (Mouse-ear chickweed) Cerastium brachypodum (mouse-ear chickweed) is found across the United States, from Washington and Oregon to Virginia and Georgia, south through Mexico to Central America. Alberta represents the northern edge of its North American distribution. Only four locations have been previously identified in Alberta, each comprised only a few individuals. The species is ranked an S1 (Gould, 2006). Mouse-ear chickweed is considered apparently secure (S4?) in Saskatchewan (Gould 2006; NatureServe 2008). This rare plant is found in open canopy sites in grasslands, meadows, open woods and waste places. It is often found on rocky or sandy soil of wet to dry moisture content (Kershaw et al. 2001). Mouse-ear chickweed is a delicate annual herb with shallow taproots. It blooms from April to July. During field work conducted in 2006 to 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project, several occurrences of this species were recorded. Three of these sites were located where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Two of the sites were depressional wetland areas associated with hygric soils, and the one recorded population had about 300 individuals.

Cryptantha minima (tiny cryptanthe) Cryptantha minima (tiny cryptanthe) is on the ANHIC tracking list and rated S1 in Alberta. Globally, it is ranked G5 (Gould 2006). In Saskatchewan, this plant is rated S1 and is nationally considered threatened and is SARA listed under Schedule 1 (Government of Canada 2008; SK CDC 2008). This plant species is found in sandy native grassland with natural soil disturbances and is also often associated with river valleys. Much of the suitable habitat in it native range has been cultivated. A small bristly haired annual it can be overlooked and is often found alongside other cyptantha species. This species was not found during surveys for the project. The known locations were recorded during surveys for the Keystone project. The main population sites are south of the Red Deer River crossing before the pipeline route traverses the Remount pasture area. This are was not re-surveyed in 2008 due to land access restrictions.

Halimolobos virgata (Slender mouse-ear-cress) Halimolobos virgata (slender mouse-ear-cress) is on the ANHIC tracking list and rated S1S2 in Alberta. Globally, it is ranked G4 (Gould 2006). In Saskatchewan, this plant is rated S1 and is nationally considered threatened and is SARA listed under Schedule 1 (Government of Canada 2008; SK CDC 2008). This plant species is a biennial that sometimes flowers its first year (sometimes annual or perennial). It is typically found on dry sites of the prairies but can also be found on bushy hillsides, moist meadows and alkali flats (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986; Kershaw et.al. 2001) This plant was found at five separate sites during surveys in 2008 for KXL. At the first site, along the discounted Remount Alternate route option (see Section 4.4.2), an extensive search for this species was

Page 9A-47 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline performed to see if a 500-m corridor could be found for the pipeline to cross over Highway 555. The search area was approximately 1500 m by 500 m, and an estimated 70 plants (about 10% of which were just the rosettes) were found sporadically throughout the area. The largest single clustering of plants found in this first site was 36 plants. South of the (now discounted) route was a fireguard, and Halimolobos virgata was again identified in the area. Notably, this plant was not found in any particular microsite or alongside indicator species. However, in general terms, this first search area was native prairie with slight rolling terrain dominated by needle-and-thread, pasture sagewort and Selaginella densa (prairie selaginella). The other four sites that slender mouse-ear-cress were found were completed in late August. Plant populations ranged from 3 to 47 plants, and most of the plants found were bearing overripe fruit. All sites were similar in their dominant species composition: needle grass species, blue grama and prickly pear. Five sites were identified during suveys for the Keystone pipeline project.

Lysimachia hybrid (Lance-leaved loosestrife) Lysmachia hybrida (lance-leaved loostrife) is found on mesic to moist soils of woodlands, meadows, shrub thickets and wetland shores (Kershaw et al. 2001). This perennial reproduces primarily by seed and although rhizomes are present, they do not spread extensively. This species is found from Oregon to British Columbia, east to Quebec, and south to Florida through the Midwest and eastern coastline states (Natureserve 2008). The species is ranked as S2 in Alberta (Gould 2006) and is on the ANHIC tracking list. Its status is not yet ranked in British Columbia and is considered secure (S5) in Saskatchewan. Lance-leaved loostrife is globally secure (G5) (NatureServe 2008). This species was found at two sites during project field studies. Both sites were wetlands with hygric soils and shrub cover dominated by poplar (Populus sp.) and willow species. One site also had high Kentucky bluegrass and fescue species cover. One vegetative individual was found, but the full extent of the population is unknown. Lance-leaved loosestrife was also observed during field work conducted in 2006 to 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. Four of these occurrences fall in the area where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. These sites were located in sloughs and depressional wetlands and were associated with subhydric to hydric moisture regimes with a small shrub component. Between 34 and 300 plants were found. At two of the sites, the range health was poor and invasive species were invading the areas.

Muhlenbergia asperifolia (Scratch grass) Muhlenbergia asperifolia (scratch grass) is on the Alberta ANHIC watch list and ranked S2. Globally, it is secure (G5). This grass species reproduces by rhizomes and is a perennial. It prefers low areas with moist soils (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This plant was only found once, in a sedge meadow wetland, dominated by Carex aquatilis (water sedge) and Carex utriculata (small bottle sedge). Surrounding the site was willow shrubland. The extent of the population was not recorded.

Parietaria pensylvanica (American pellitory) Parietaria pensylvanica (American pellitory) is considered globally secure, ranked G5 and has a range that covers most of North America with the exception of the far northern areas of Canada. However, it is considered an S2 species in Alberta. This species is currently on the ANHIC watch list (Gould 2006; USDA, NRCS 2008). The American pellitory is a monoecious or polygamous annual that is found in wooded areas, banks, brushy and rocky places. It prefers to inhabit areas of partial to heavy shade (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986).

February 2009 Page 9A-48 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

This plant was found in two sites – both were on slight slopes with subhygric to hydric soils. Both sites had an abundance of low shrubs, particularly buckbrush. One site had fifteen reproductive plants and fifteen vegetative plants, and the second site had seven vegetative plants and hundreds of reproductive individuals.

Potentilla finitima (Sandhills cinquefoil) Potentilla finitima (sandhills cinquefoil) is rare in Alberta (ranked S1) and on the ANHIC track list. Globally, it is ranked G2G4Q. In Canada, it is native to Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba (USDA, NRCS 2008). This species is a variety of Potentilla pensylvanica L. P. pensylvanica is polymorphic species and without known chromosome numbers, it is hard to determine or distinguish P. finitima from the other numerous varieties. According to The Great Plains Flora Association (1986), sandhills cinquefoil is a variety that can be distinguished by conspicuously reticulate-veined upper leaflet surfaces, bractlets longer than sepals, petals 3 mm to 5 mm long, and chromosomal numbers 2n=14. This cinquefoil species and the other varieties might be found in similar sites, which are dry, sandy or rocky areas, open woodlands and sandy ridges (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was found at two dry, open grassland sites with dry mesic to submesic soils and one site that had sandy soils and tall shrub cover dominated by snowberry (Syphoricarpos albus) and silverberry. One of the grassland sites was located in the Remount Community Pasture, and it was estimated that there were 19 individuals within a 40 m by 10 m area, 80% of which were vegetative and 20% of which were flowering. The other open grassland site had a slight slope (about two degrees west) and had two plants within 1.5 m of one another, both flowering. The full extent of the population was unknown.

Potentilla plattensis (Low cinquefoil) Potentilla plattensis (low cinquefoil) is globally ranked G4 and in Alberta. This species is on the ANHIC tracking list and is ranked S1S2 (Gould 2006). Historically, it is native to, and present in, the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Typically, the low cinquefoil is a perennial herb that is found in prairie meadows and hillsides ranging from moist to dry soils (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). During field studies, it was found at two sites, one of which was alongside another rare species (Sisyrinchium septentrionale [pale blue-eyed grass]). Both sites where low cinquefoil was observed were moist, open grassland areas with a slight (about one degree) slope with a southeast aspect. Associated species included a high population of other cinquefoil species (Potentilla sp.), small-leaved everlasting (Antenarria parvifolia) and Kentucky bluegrass. At one site, the soil texture was loamy, the population covered a 35 m by 15 m area , and the population was estimated at around 125 to 150 individuals in various life-stages (vegetative, budding or in flower). The second site had a population area of 5 m by 10 m with an estimated 17 plants.

Sisyrinchium septentrionale (Pale blue-eyed grass) Sisyrinchium septentrionale (pale blue-eyed grass) is ranked S2 in Alberta. This plant is found in northeastern Washington and British Columbia east to Manitoba (Moss 1983). Sixty-five occurrences have previously been identified, ranging from the Rocky Mountains to eastern grasslands of central and southern Alberta (ANHIC 2006). These occurrences consist of a few to approximately 1000 individuals. Northern blue-eyed grass is globally vulnerable (G3G4) and provincially vulnerable (S3) in British Columbia (NatureServe 2008). Northern blue-eyed grass grows in mesic to dry soils, often associated with meadows and stream banks (Kershaw et al. 2001; Moss 1983). This plant is a perennial, spreading through underground rhizomes (Kershaw et al. 2001) This species was found in two locations. One site was in a drainage area near an existing RoW – only one individual was located in the search. The second site had mesic soils and was in an open, moist

Page 9A-49 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline grassland with a very slight slope with a southeastern aspect. Eleven individuals were counted at the second site, with six in flower and one with fruit. The area was 2 m by 3 m. Associate species included common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), common blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium montanum), bluegrass species as well as wheatgrass species.

Solidago mollis (Velvety goldenrod) Solidago mollis (velvety goldenrod) is a perennial and is ranked S3 in Alberta though it is considered globally secure as noted by its G5 ranking (Gould 2006). This species of goldenrod appears in open woods and dry sites on the prairies, especially in fence rows. It is a highly variable plant in terms of its inflorescence (simple to pyramidal to spreading and branched) and leaves (upward diminution and number) (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This plant was found at four separate occurrences which varied greatly and included native prairie grassland, wooded pasture with high shrub content and improved pasture. Additionally, these slopes at the sites varied from 0 to 30%, and the plant was found on upland, midslope and flat terrain.

Spergularia salina (Salt-Marsh Sand Spurry) Spergularia salina (salt-marsh sand spurry) ranges from British Columbia to Manitoba, south to California, Arizona, New Mexico and North Dakota, throughout the maritime provinces and south to Florida (Moss 1983). It is globally secure (G5) as well as provincially secure in Saskatchewan (NatureServe 2008; FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993; Kershaw et al. 2001). It might invade roadside ditches where winter sand/salt spreading might increase the salinity of associated soils. Salt-marsh sand spurry grows as an annual, producing slender taproots making transplanting a potentially unsuccessful mitigation method. The species is ranked with an S2 status in Alberta though it is considered globally secure as noted by its G5 ranking (Gould 2006). Salt-marsh sand spurry was found in a single location with greater than 1000 plants in an alkali slough, supplementing twenty previously identified provincial occurrences. This occurrence fell inside the Keystone PDA according to the field work studies conducted for the existing Keystone Pipeline project in 2006 to 2007.

Symphyotrichum campestre var. campestre (Meadow aster) Previously named Aster campestris,Symphyotrichum campestre var. campestre (meadow aster) is found in Alberta and British Columbia. Although apparently secure in British Columbia (ranked S4), this plant is considered an S2 species in Alberta (Gould 2006; NatureServe 2008). This rare species was encountered once in 2006 to 2007 during studies conducted for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. The occurrence was in an area where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project. The site was being overtaken by crested wheat grass from the adjacent area, and therefore the area had low range health. Rare plant populations at the site could be restricted by this invasive species.

Torreyochloa pallida var. pauciflora (Few-flowered salt meadow grass) Torreyochloa pallida var. pauciflora (few-flowered salt meadow grass) is a provincially rare (S1) Alberta species. Only a single other known population exists in the Crowsnest region of the Alberta foothills, marking the eastern edge of its previously known range in Canada (ANHIC 2006). Few-flowered salt meadow grass inhabits exceptionally moist soils (i.e., subhygric, hydric) of high nutrient availability, particularly in bogs, wet meadows, and the shores of marshes, lakes, streams and swamps grading in elevation up to the subalpine (BC CDC 2008; Kershaw et al. 2001). Few-flowered salt meadow grass is a

February 2009 Page 9A-50 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline perennial that reproduces by both seeds and creeping rhizomes, with abiotic pollen dispersal vectors (Moss 1983; BC CDC 2008). One population, consisting of over 50 individuals, was observed in a saline depressional grassland during field work conducted in 2006 to 2007 for the existing Keystone Pipeline project. The population was found in an area where the Project will be contiguous with the existing Keystone Pipeline project.

9A.3.4.2 Saskatchewan Information on historical rare plant occurrences along the Project was obtained by overlapping the CDC polygon data with a 200-m buffer, 100 m either side of centre, on the route in Saskatchewan. Fourteen species have historically occurred along the route (see Table 9A-22). Chenopodium subglarum, smooth arid goosefoot, was the only species that is SARA listed and protected under Schedule 1 of the Act. During the 2008 surveys, 21 rare plant species were found at 64 locations along the RoW (see Table 9A-23). Of these 20 species, none are SARA listed. Provincially, three S1, two S2 and two S1S2 species were encountered along the RoW, as well as 14 additional species with lower ranks (see Table 9A-23). See Figure 9A-5 for locations of all rare plants across the PDA in Saskatchewan. A complete listing of plant species encountered during 2008 surveys can be found in Attachment 9A.III.

Table 9A-22 Historical Occurrences of Rare Plants in the Vicinity of the Project in Saskatchewan

Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name and Authority Common Name Rank Rank Occurrences Alopecurus carolinianus Walter Carolina Foxtail Water-foxtail S1 G5 11 Arenaria congesta var. lithophila Rocky Ground Sandwort S3 G5T3T5 2 (Rydb.) Maguire Astragalus kentrophyta var. Spiny Milk-vetch — — 3 kentrophyta (Rydb.) Maguire. Astragalus lotiflorus Hook. Low Milk-vetch S3 G5 6 Centunculus minimus L. Chaffweed S2 G5 3 Chenopodium subglabrum Smooth Arid Goosefoot S2 G3G4 1 (S. Wats.) A. Nels. Hedeoma hispida Pursh. Rough Pennyroyal S3 G5 3 Lupinus pusillus ssp. pusillus (Heller) Small Lupine S3 G5T5 1 D. Myosurus apetalus var. borealis Awned Mousetail S2? G5T3T5 1 Whittemore Myosurus minimus L. Least Mousetail S2S3 G5 3 Navarretia leucocephala ssp. minima Lesser Navarretia S3 G4T4? 3 (Nutt.) Day Nothocalais cuspidate (Pursh) Prairie False-dandelion S2 G5 1 Greene Polygonum polygaloides ssp. Dense-flowered Knotweed S2 G4G5T3T4 1 confertiflorum (Nutt. ex Piper) Potamogeton strictifolius Benn. Upright Narrow-leaved S2 G5 1 Pondweed

NOTE: SARA-listed species are noted in bold.

Page 9A-51 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Table 9A-23 Rare Plant Occurrences Recorded During Surveys of the Project in Saskatchewan

Provincial Global Number of Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Occurrences Alisma gramineum J. G. Gmel. Narrow-leaved water S3 G5 1 plantain Alopecurus carolinianus Walt. Carolina Foxtail S1 G5 1 Antennaria umbrinella Rydb. Brown-bracted S2/S3 G5 1 mountain everlasting Astragalus lotiflorus Hook. Low milk vetch S3 G5 4 Astragalus spatulatus Sheld. Tufted Milk vetch S2/S3 G5 1 Cryptantha celosioides (Eastw.) Macoun's cryptanthe S1 G3/G5 9 Payson Delphinium bicolor Nutt. Low larkspur S2S3 G4G5T4T5 1 Dodecatheon conjugens Greene Mountain shooting star S3? G5T3T5 1 Elymus piperi Bowden Giant wild rye S1S2 G5 2 Erigeron compositus Pursh. Compound-leaved S3 G5 7 fleabane Hedeoma hispidum Pursh. Pennyroyal S3 G5 2 Juncus confusus Coville Few-flowered rush S2 G5 1 Lupinus pusillus Pursh. Annual lupine S2/S4 G5 10 Navarretia leucocephala Benth. White-flowered S3 G5T4? 1 navarretia Oenothera caespitosa Nutt. Butte primrose S3 G5 3 Osmorhiza depauperata Phil. Spreading white cicely S3S4 G5 1 Plantago patagonica Jacq. Pursh's plantain S2/S4 G5 9 Ranunculus cardiophyllus Hook. heart-leaved buttercup S1S2 G4G5 2 Sedum lanceolatum Torr. Lance-leaved S3? G5 4 stonecrop Veronica serpyllifolia var. Thyme-leaved S1 G5 1 homifusa L. Speedwell Vulpia octoflora (Walt.) Rydb. Six weeks fescue S2 G5 2

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9A-5 La Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline

Alisma gramineum (Narrow-leaved water plantain) Alisma gramineum (narrow-leaved water plantain) is globally secure (G5) with a provincial rank of S3 (SK CDC 2008). The other provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec also rank this species S3. This species might be found as erect and emergent on mud flats or it can be submersed with floating leaves, found in brackish waters with high calcium carbonate sediments (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). Alisma gramineum was observed once during project field work in Saskatchewan.

Alopecurus carolinianus (Carolina foxtail) Globally, this plant is secure (G5), but in Saskatchewan it is rare and rated S1 (SK CDC 2008). In Alberta it is considered vulnerable (S2) (NatureServe 2008). It grows in moist areas, particularly prairie wetlands, as well as old fields, waste areas and roadsides, floodplains, and lower wooded areas (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species can reproduce in several uncommon ways, including being digested by animals or through vegetative, asexual reproduction (NatureServe 2008). Alopecurus carolinianuswas was observed at one location in the Saskatchewan portion of project field work during both spring and summer surveys. The site was an overgrazed Class 2 wetland with high bare soil coverage and low species diversity. The site had a great deal of pugging by cattle. An estimated 20 individuals were found.

Antennaria umbrinella (Brown-bracted mountain everlasting) This species is globally secure (G5) and in Saskatchewan has a rank of S2/S3 (SK CDC 2008). It is only found in the western part of Canada. In Alberta it is considered vulnerable and ranked S3 (NatureServe 2008). Brown-bracted mountain everlasting typically inhabits gravelly slopes and open woods. It is more commonly found in the southern foothills and montane regions of Alberta and is often found in fescue grassland and montane meadows (Tannas 2003-2004; Moss 1983). Where it grows more commonly, this increaser species can be an indicator of heavy grazing, but it also can reach high populations in rangelands with good health (Tannas 2003-2004) Antennaria umbrinella was observed at one site. This site was midslope on a west-facing, 44% hill and was dominated by Carex filifolia (thread-leaved sedge), pasture sagewort and needle-and-thread. The full extent of the population was not determined.

Astragalus lotiflorus (Low milk vetch) Astragalus lotiflorus Hook. is ranked G5 globally and S3 in Saskatchewan (SK CDC 2008). It is also rare in Alberta (Kershaw et al. 2001). Additionally, the low milk vetch is variably rare throughout its range in Canada. In Alberta and British Columbia this milk vetch is considered vulnerable (S3), and in Manitoba it is considered critically imperilled, ranked S1 (NatureServe 2008). The low milk vetch is a perennial that sometimes flowers its first year. It is adaptable to several soils in the prairies including clay, loam, silt and gravelly. Its habitat is not exceptionally specific and might include bluffs, open wooded or bushy hillsides and canyons, roadside and waste areas, lakeshores and ponds, and active blowout areas. The great variety of areas which these plants have been observed might be attributed to this species’ high variability (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986; Kershaw et al. 2001). This plant was seen at four separate sites during the field survey. The sites were quite similar. All were open grassy areas with subxeric to xeric qualities. The health of the sites ranged from somewhat disturbed to good range health. At two of the sites, the low milk vetch’s population was undetermined, but at the other two sites, the population was estimated at fewer than ten to 15 individuals within a 1-m radius.

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Astragalus spatulatus (Tufted milk vetch) This milkvetch species is globally ranked G5 and provincially ranked S2/S3 (SK CDC 2008). In Canada, it is only found in Alberta where it is considered an S3 plant. Astragalus spatulatus is a perennial plant that typically inhabits open and rocky hilltops and hillsides which commonly have shallow soils (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was found at only one site where the extent of its population was undetermined. The site was conducted on the upper slope of a rolling native prairie area north of the Frenchman River Valley and was dominated by thread leaved sedge.

Cryptantha celosioides (Macoun’s cryptanthe) Macoun’s cryptanthe is globally ranked G3/G5 and provincially ranked S1 (SK CDC 2008). It is also ranked S1 in British Columbia and has been found in Alberta where its population rarity is not yet verified (NatureServe 2008). Typically this plant is a perennial that inhabits dry prairie sites, including sandy soils and dunes (Moss 1983) Cryptantha celosioides was found at nine occurrences in Saskatchewan during project studies. The number of plants found ranged from 1 to 24 individuals. Areas where it was found were generally similar in that they were xeric to subxeric, sandy native grassland sites, often with a high percentage of bare ground. It was also apparent that this cryptanthe was typically found in areas where a reclaimed fescue mix was prevalent. Exceptionally, some sites were sloped and one site was very rocky.

Delphinium bicolour (Low larkspur) Delphinium bicolor (low larkspur) is globally ranked G4G5T4T5 and provincially ranked S2S3 for the subsp. bicolor (SK CDC 2008). In addition to Saskatchewan, this larkspur species is found in British Columbia and Alberta where its populations are unknown and not considered rare (NatureServe 2008). This perennial plant typically inhabits open places in wooded areas, on gravelly banks and road cuts (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was found only once, on a north-facing midslope site that had high species diversity. The full extent of the population was unknown.

Dodecatheon conjugens (Mountain shooting star) Dodecatheon conjugens (Mountain shooting star) is globally ranked G5T3T5 and ranked S3? in Saskatchewan for the subsp. conjugens or viscidum (SK CDC 2008). In Canada, it is also found in Alberta and British Columbia where its populations are apparently secure and not yet ranked respectively (NatureServe 2008). This plant was found only in one site, alongside another rare plant Delphinium bicolor. The site was a north-facing, 24% slope. The population was estimated at the hundreds level and was very prevalent at this site.

Elymus piperi (Giant wild rye) This rye species is globally secure (G5) but in Saskatchewan, is locally rare, and ranked S1S2 (SK CDC 2008). In Canada, it is also found in Alberta where its population is vulnerable (ranked S3) and British Columbia where it is not likely rare (ranked S4) (NatureServe 2008). This robust perennial is not rhizomatous and prefers sandy or clay soils. It inhabits flat or sloped areas, open woodlands, ravines and roadsides of the prairies (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986).

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Elymus piperi Bowden was found in two sites during field surveys. Both were relatively flat grassland areas, one dominated by needle-and-thread and the other one dominated by northern wheatgrass and needle-and-thread. In both cases, only a trace amount of this plant was observed; however, it was not determined what the full extent of its population was.

Erigeron composites (Compound-leaved fleabane) Erigeron composites (compound-leaved fleabane) is globally ranked G5 and provincially ranked S3 (SK CDC 2008). It is also found in Alberta and the Yukon (NatureServe 2008). This fleabane is a low growing perennial found in the prairies in sandy soils occurring in open areas that are commonly dry, rocky or loose, often on exposed hillsides and slopes. Although rare, this increaser species has a woody taproot and can tolerate trampling by livestock or wildlife and drought (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986; Tannas 2003-2004). It was found in eight locations during the field work completed in Saskatchewan. The sites where it was found varied, but a majority were slightly rolling native prairie areas with sandy soils and all sites were open and not wooded. A few sites were exceptional – a couple of sites were on mild to steep slopes and one site was very rocky with high lichen content. Generally, a full population extent was not determined

Hedeoma hispidum (Pennyroyal) Hedeoma hispidum (pennyroyal) is globally secure (ranked G5), but in Canada there are several provinces where it is rare. In British Columbia and Manitoba, this pennyroyal species is an S1 species, in Quebec it is an S2 species and in Saskatchewan, it is considered an S3 species. It is ranked as secure (S4) in Alberta and Ontario (NatureServe 2008; SK CDC 2008). This annual plant prefers exposed soils and inhabits prairies and pastures, roadsides and waste ground, and dry slopes (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was observed at two sites; however, these sites were surveyed very early in the growing season when there were only immature structures to observe. Therefore, the full extent of this plant’s population was undetermined. The sites varied – one site was a wetland and the other two were on rolling prairie grassland.

Juncus confusus (Few-flowered rush) Juncus confusus (few-flowered rush) is globally secure but in Saskatchewan it is ranked S2 (SK CDC 2008). This rush species is also found in British Columbia and Alberta were it is also considered rare, being rated S1 and S3 respectively (NatureServe 2008). Typically, this juncus species inhabits low grasslands, thickets and open woods (Moss 1983). This species was only identified once in a low area that had wetland characteristics; however, the extent of its population was undetermined. The species extent and occurrence should be confirmed with future field work.

Lupinus pusillus (Annual lupine) Lupinus pusillus (annual lupine) is globally ranked G5, and in Saskatchewan it is considered an S2/S4 species (SK CDC 2008). Other than Saskatchewan, in Canada it is only found in Alberta where it is considered vulnerable and ranked S3 (NatureServe 2008). Typically, the best habitat for the annual lupine is in sandy soils of the prairies, including dunes, stream valleys, badlands and roadsides (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species is an increaser and therefore is often found in areas of heavy grazing, although good condition rangelands can also support high populations of this plant (Tannas 2003-2004).

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The annual lupine was found in ten occurrences. The number of plants found ranged from 1 to over 20 individuals. The sites where it was identified were commonly subxeric to xeric open grassy areas with sandy soils and slight rolling terrain. Dominant species were mostly graminoid species, in particular needle grass species, blue grama, sand grass and June grass.

Navarretia leucocephala (White-flowered navarretia) Navarretia leucocephala (white-flowered navarretia) is globally ranked G5T4? and in Saskatchewan, provincially ranked S3 for the subsp. minima (SK CDC 2008). In Canada it has also been found in British Columbia and Alberta where it has not yet been ranked (NatureServe 2008). Typically, this plant inhabits sandy soils of moist areas of the plains, including some wetlands, bottom lands and slough margins (Moss 1983). This species was found at one site, which was a well-used wetland where high amounts of pugging by cattle had resulted in high bare soil coverage. This navarretia species was mostly found growing in exposed soil that had means of being shaded by grassy patches.

Oenothera caespitose (Butte primrose) Oenothera caespitosa (butte primrose) is globally secure (G5) and provincially ranked S3 (SK CDC 2008). In addition to Saskatchewan, this plant is found in Alberta where it is ranked S3 and in Manitoba where it is critically imperilled (ranked S1) (NatureServe 2008). Although there are other subspecies, the description that follows is specific to the subsp. caespitosa. This perennial plant can reproduce by its lateral roots which form new shoots. It inhabits eroding dry, rocky and gravelly hillsides, talus slopes, banks and clay road cuts, or open woodlands of the prairies (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986; Tannas 2003-2004). This primrose species was found at three locations, where between 2 and over 20 individuals were observed. The sites where the primrose was found were all quite similar. They were all native grasslands with sandy soils and dominated by needle-and-thread and blue grama. Additionally, all of the sites had good range health.

Osmorhiza depauperata (Spreading sweet cicely) Osmorhiza depauperata (spreading sweet cicely) is globally ranked G5 and provincially ranked S3S4 in Saskatchewan (SK CDC 2008). This species is found throughout most of Canada with the exceptions of Labrador, Northwest Territories and Nunavut). In Quebec it is ranked S3 or vulnerable, and in New Brunswick and Manitoba it is ranked S2 or “imperilled”. Lastly, in Newfoundland, it is considered rare and ranked S1 (NatureServe 2008). Osmorhiza depauperata Phil. is quite similar to another cicely species, O. chilensis and is usually found in rich woodland sites (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was observed at only one site during field studies; however, the full extent of its population was undetermined. The site was conducted midslope on a north-facing, mesic, shrubby hillside. The dominant species there were Kentucky bluegrass and silverberry.

Plantago patagonica (Pursh’s plantain) This plantain species is globally secure (G5) and provincially rated S2/S4 (SK CDC 2008). In Alberta it is considered an S3 species, and in British Columbia it is considered apparently secure (S4). Plantago patagonica is an annual, winter annual, biennial or short-lived perennial. A few subspecies have been determined and might be difficult to distinguish from one another, particularly because of their overlapping habitats. Pursh’s plantain is found in the prairies on dry, sandy and/or rocky plains, hillsides, badlands, roads and waste areas (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986).

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This species was found at nine locations. All sites were generally sandy, exposed and often on hillsides. Populations ranged from low to hundreds of individuals and generally were found in rather dense patches.

Ranunculus cardiophyllus (Heart-leaved buttercup) Ranunculus cardiophyllus (heart-leaved buttercup) is ranked G4G5 globally and S1S2 in Saskatchewan (SK CDC 2008). Its populations are also considered rare in British Columbia (ranked S1), but it is rather common in Alberta, ranked S5. Additionally it has been found in the Northwest Territories where it has not currently been ranked (NatureServe 2008). This perennial typically inhabits moist areas including meadows and seepage areas (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This buttercup species is also considered quite variable in its large range throughout North America and Mexico (FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993). Ranunculus cardiophyllus was observed at two sites – one was a wetland and the other was a mesic grassland area dominated by Hooker’s oat-grass. The population’s extent was undetermined at both sites.

Sedum lanceolatum (Lance-leaved stonecrop) Sedum lanceolatum (lance-leaved stonecrop) is globally secure (G5) and in Saskatchewan, rated S3?, which suggests that documented occurrences of the plant in the province are not sufficient to define its rank (SK CDC 2008). In Canada, its range includes most of the west (NatureServe 2008). This perennial plant is most commonly found in open, exposed areas that are rocky or otherwise in areas overlaying bedrock with thin soil cover (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was identified on four different locations during field surveys. Interestingly, three of four sites where this plant was found were north-facing 20-30% grassy slopes. Between one and over twenty plants were seen.

Veronica serpyllifolia var. humifusa (Thyme-leaved speedwell) Veronica serpyllifolia var. humifusa (thyme-leaved speedwell) is ranked G5 globally and has been found in the majority of Canada’s provinces and the Maritimes. In Saskatchewan it is ranked S1 (NatureServe 2008; SK CDC 2008). Veronica serpyllifolia var. humifusa is rhizomatous and is found in moist areas including meadows, stream banks, gravel bars and lake or pond shores. This variety differs from the var. serpyllifolia in that its hairs are upcurved (not spreading/glabrous) and has a white (not blue) corolla and smaller capsule (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was only observed in one site, located in the riparian zone and floodplain of Bone Creek where several willow species dominated the plant cover. The area had been heavily grazed and pugged by cattle. As well, there were several introduced species. The speedwell’s total population was not determined.

Vulpia octoflora (Six-weeks fescue) Vulpia octoflora (six-weeks fesue) is globally secure (G5) but in Saskatchewan, is quite rare and ranked S2. It is considered apparently secure in Alberta (NatureServe 2008; SK CDC 2008). This annual fescue species is found on the prairies most commonly in pastures and waste ground (The Great Plains Flora Association 1986). This species was seen twice during 2008 field surveys. One site where it was seen was a reclaimed native grassland that was strongly dominated by plains rough fescue. The other site where it was found

February 2009 Page 9A-58 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Appendix 9A: Vegetation and Wetlands Baseline was a native grassland site that was heavily grazed and the dominant grass species were western wheat grass and blue grama. The full extent of the two populations was not determined.

9A.3.5 Weed Species Weed species were identified as part of all field surveys in areas of native vegetation. Due to the amount of anthropogenic disturbance throughout much of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, weeds are abundant throughout most of the PDA. No restricted weeds were noted in Alberta; however, several occurrences of noxious weeds were noted (see Table 9A-24). Saskatchewan only classifies weeds as noxious and several occurrences of noxious weeds were noted in Saskatchewan during field surveys (see Table 9A-25).

Table 9A-24 Occurrences of Weed Species during Surveys of the Project in Alberta

Weed Type Latin Name with Authority Common Name Occurrences Nuisance Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. quack grass 4 Cerastium arvense L. field mouse-ear chickweed 9 Crepis tectorum L. annual hawk's -beard 6 Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. green tansy mustard 1 Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb flixweed 1 Erysimum cheiranthoides L. wormseed mustard 5 Galeopsis tetrahit L. hemp-nettle 2 Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Durmort. bluebur 2 Potentilla norvegica L. rough cinquefoil 4 Taraxacum officinale Weber common dandelion 37 Noxious Convolvulus arvensis L. field bindweed 5 Euphorbia esula L. leafy spurge 2 Linaria vulgaris Hill butter-and-eggs 1 Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. creeping thistle 8 Sonchus arvensis L. perennial sow-thistle 6

Table 9A-25 Occurrences of Weed Species During Surveys of the Project in Saskatchewan

Latin Name (with Authority) Common Name Weed Type Occurrences Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. quack grass Noxious 4 Bromus japonicus Thunb. ex Murr. Japanese chess Noxious 1 Bromus tectorum L. downy chess Noxious 5 Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. creeping thistle Noxious 32 Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Durmort. bluebur Noxious 23 Salsola kali L. Russian-thistle Noxious 8 Silene noctiflora L. night-flowering catchfly Noxious 1 Sisymbrium altissimum L. tumbling mustard Noxious 4

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Table 9A-25 Occurrences of Weed Species During Surveys of the Project in Saskatchewan (cont’d)

Latin Name (with Authority) Common Name Weed Type Occurrences Sonchus arvensis L. perennial sow-thistle Noxious 4 Taraxacum officinale Weber common dandelion Noxious 67 Thlaspi arvense L. stinkweed Noxious 6

9A.4 Discussion and Probable Project Effects Effects on vegetation and wetlands from the Project might result in:  fragmentation of patches and large tracts of dominantly native vegetation from construction;  loss or alteration of vegetation and wetlands communities and species from construction;  introduction and spread of non-native and invasive species;  alteration of vegetation and wetlands communities and species resulting from changes in shallow and surface water conditions generated during construction; and  alteration of vegetation and wetlands communities and species resulting from control of undesirable species during operations (i.e., weeds and woody vegetation). In addition the potential for introduction and spread of invasive non-native species during construction and operations might result in effects on vegetation and wetlands.

9A.5 References

9A.5.1 Literature Cited Adams, B.W., L. Poulin-Klein, D. Moisey and R.L. McNeil. 2004. Rangeland Plant Communities and Range Health Assessment Guidelines for the Mixedgrass Natural Subregion of Alberta. Rangeland Management Branch, Public Lands and Forests Division, Alberta Sustainable Resources Development, Lethbridge, Pub. No. T/03940 101 pp. Adams, B.W., G. Ehlert, C. Stone, M. Alexander, D. Lawrence, M. Willoughby, D. Moisey, C. Hincz, and A. Bogen. 2003, Revised April 2005a. Range Health Assessment for Grassland, Forest and Tame Pasture. Public Lands Division, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development. Pub. No. T/044 105 pp. Adams, B.W., L. Poilin-Klein, D. Moisey and R.L. McNeil. 2005b. Rangeland Plant Communities and Range Health Assessment Guidelines for the Dry Mixedgrass Natural Subregion of Alberta. Rangeland Management Branch, Public Lands Division, Alberta Sustainable Resources Development, Lethbridge, Pub. No. T/040 106 pp. Alberta Environmental Protection. 1997a. The Grassland Natural Region of Alberta. Alberta Environmental Protection, Natural Resources Service, Recreation and Protected Areas Division, Natural Heritage Protection and Education Branch. Alberta Native Plant Council (ANPC). 2006. ANPC Guidelines for Rare Plant Surveys in Alberta. Available online: http://www.anpc.ab.ca/content/index.php (Accessed May, 2008) Alberta Native Plant Council (ANPC). 2008. A Rogue’s Gallery of Invasive and Non-native Plants of Alberta. Available online: http://www.anpc.ab.ca/wiki/index.php/Main_Page (Accessed December 2, 2008).

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Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre (ANHIC) 2006. Parks and Protected Areas Division, Alberta Community Development. ANHIC Database - Element Occurrence Report. Data Accessed: November 12, 2008 Alberta Prairie Conservation Forum (APCF), 2006. Available online: http:// http://www.albertapcf.org/ (Accessed in November, 2008) Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) 2008. Rangeland Classification and Ecology. Available at: http://www.srd.alberta.ca/lands/managingpublicland/rangemanagement/classificationecology.asp x Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) 2007. Grassland Vegetation Inventory Specifications (GVI). September 7, 2007. Allen, L. 2006. Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre Preliminary. Ecological Community Tracking List. Alberta Community Development, Edmonton, Alberta. Pub. No. T/527 Allen, L. 2008. Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre Preliminary. Ecological Community Tracking List. Alberta Community Development, Edmonton, Alberta. Pub. No. T/527 British Columbia Conservation Data Centre (BC CDC) 2008. Government of British Columbia. Ministry of Environment. Available at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc/access.html. (Accessed November, 2008) FNA Ed. Comm. eds. 1993. Flora of North America North of Mexico. 7+ vols. New York and Oxford. Gould, J. 2006. Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre Tracking and Watch Lists — Vascular Plants, Mosses, Liverworts and Hornworts. Alberta Community Development, Parks and Protected Areas Division, Edmonton, Alberta. Government of Alberta, 2006. Alberta Wildlife Act. Alberta Government Website. Available online: http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/fw/hunting/legislation.html (Accessed November 2008) Government of Canada. 2008. Species at Risk Act Public Registry (SARA). Available online: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/the_act/default_e.cfm (Accessed November 2008) Government of Saskatchewan, 1984. The Noxious Weeds Act – Chapter N-9.1 of the Statutes of Saskatchewan, 1983-84 as amended in 1998, c.29; and 2005, c.M-36.1. . Available online: http://www.publications.gov.sk.ca/details.cfm?p=742 (Accessed December 3, 2008) Government of Saskatchewean 1999. The Noxious Weeds Designation Regulations – Chapter N-9.1 Reg 2 (effective April 28, 1987) as amended by Saskatchewan Regulations 14/1999. Available online: http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Regulations/Regulations/N9-1R2.pdf (Accessed December 4, 2008). Gucker, C. L. 2005. Seasonal fire effects in a Saskatchewan rough fescue prairie. In: Fire Effects Information System, [Online]. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer). Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/ (2006, March 10). The Great Plains Flora Association. 1986. Flora of the Great Plains. University Press of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas. 1402 pgs. Henderson, Darcy C. May, 2007. Set-Back Distance and Timing Restriction Guidelines, Prairie Plant Species at Risk: Version 3. Environment Canada.

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Kershaw, L., J. Gould, D. Johnson, and J. Lancaster. 2001. Rare vascular plants of Alberta. University of Alberta Press, Edmonton, Alberta and Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Services Center, Edmonton, Alberta. Looman, J. 1994. Budds flora of the Canadian Provinces. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. McNeil, Ron and Barry W. Adams. 2003. Updated 2005. Range Sites and Reference Plant Communities of Southern Alberta, Derived From AGRISID 3.0. Prepared for Alberta Sustainable Resource Development. Moss, E.H. 1983. (2nd edition revised by J. G. Packer). Flora of Alberta. University of Toronto Press, Toronto, ON. 687 pages. Natural Region Committee (NRC). 2006. Natural Regions and Subregions of Alberta. Compiled by D.J. Downing and W.W. Pettapiece. Government of Alberta. Pub. No. I/005. NatureServe. 2008. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 5.0. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: November 2008) Saskatchewan Conservation Data Center (SK CDC) 2008. Government of Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment. Tracked Species for Vascular Plants. Available Online: http://www.biodiversity.sk.ca/ftp.htm (Accessed October 22, 2008) Saskatchewan Eco Network, 2008. Great Sand Hills. Available at http://econet.sk.ca/issues/gsh/Env_Values.html Stewart, Robert E., and Harold A. Kantrud. 1971. Classification of natural ponds and lakes in the glaciated prairie region. Resource Publication 92, Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Online. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/wetlands/pondlake/index.htm (Version 16APR1998). Sweetgrass Consultants Ltd. 1997. Alberta Environmental Protection. Resource Data Division. Environmentally Significant Areas of Alberta. Volume 2. Available online: http://tpr.alberta.ca/parks/heritageinfocentre/environsigareas/docs/esa_ab_vol2.pdf (Accessed November 2008) Tannas, Kathy. Common plants of the Western Rangelands (Volumes 1 and 3). 2003-2004. Olds College. USDA, NRCS. 2008. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA. Available: http://plants.usda.gov. (Accessed Novermber 2008). Weerstra, B.G. and A.C. Holcroft Weerstra. 1998. Preliminary Classification of Plains Rough Fescue (Festuca hallii) Community Types within the Central Parkland Subregion of Alberta. Prepared for Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre, Edmonton, AB.

9A.5.2 Personal Communications Adams, B., 2006. Range Management Specialist - South Lethbridge Office, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Lethbridge, Alberta Tannas, Clare and Kathy. 2006. Consultants, Eastern Slopes Rangeland Seeds. Cremona, Alberta

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Attachment 9A.I Descriptions of GVI Site Types

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The GVI site types, as defined by Alberta SRD (ASRD 2007), are described according to the following land classes:  Anthropogenic;  Native Upland;  Riparian; and  Upland.

9A.I.1 Anthropogenic Anthropogenic site types are those that are human-made or modified, including crop, pasture, industrial sites, and settlements.

Crop – Irrigated (CI) Irrigation is the replacement or supplementation of rainfall with water from another source in order to grow crops. Cropland includes row crops, small grains, oilseeds, sod and fallow.

Crop – Non irrigated (CN) Non-irrigated agricultural land relies only on direct rainfall for crop growth and the process is referred to as rainfed or dryland farming. Cropland includes small grains, oilseeds, fallow, and occasionally row crops.

Tame Pasture or Hay – Irrigated (PI) Tame Pasture or hay represents areas of grasses, legumes or grass-legume mixtures planted for livestock grazing or the production of seed or hay crops. Irrigation is the replacement or supplementation of rainfall with water from another source in order to grow crops.

Tame Pasture or Hay – Non irrigated (PN) Tame Pasture or hay represents areas of grasses, legumes or grass-legume mixtures planted for livestock grazing or hay crops. Non-irrigated agricultural land relies only on direct rainfall for crop growth and the process is referred to as rainfed or dryland farming.

Pits (Pit) Pits represent locations where vegetative cover and overburden are removed to create a significant non- natural landscape expression in order to extract surficial deposits. This category includes both active and inactive operations.

Developed (Dev) The Developed site type represents developments that are very difficult to return to crop, pasture, hay, or native/natural conditions and includes both active and inactive operations. Developed site types do not include Urban or Rural developments.

Rural (Ru) The Rural site type represents areas with persons living in sparsely populated lands lying outside urban areas, or areas being used by a relatively small number of people on a temporary basis. Rural residential

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9A.I.2 Native Upland Upland native range areas can be categorized into range sites based on recognizable soil and landscape features.

Badlands/Bedrock (BdL) Badlands/Bedrock typically occurs on moderate to steep coulee or valley sides; also on eroded bedrock plains. This site type often occurs in association with Thin Breaks, Limy and Overflow.

Blowouts/Solonetzic Order These site types usually occur in swales or at slope inflections in the plains; can be in valley bottoms or on inclined surfaces. Blowouts/Solonetzic Order site types are often associated with Bearpaw Shale bedrock less than 5 m from the surface or in areas of former groundwater discharge; Loamy, where Loamy occurs interspersed between Blowouts/Solonetzic Order pitted areas; Overflow, Thin Breaks and to a lesser extent Saline Lowlands and Sandy; and Pits that are exposures of hardpan, centimeters to a few metres in extent.

Choppy Sandhills (CS) Dunes typical of Choppy Sandhills typically have stronger topography at least on one side of the dunes. Choppy Sandhills dunes can be parabolic or linear parallel to the direction of the prevailing winds and often have an asymmetric cross-section with one slope much steeper than the opposite side. Tree, shrub, herbaceous and bare soil covers in Choppy Sandhills are often very patchy. Choppy Sandhills are often associated with Sub-irrigated (Sb) site types.

Clayey (Cy) Clayey is often associated with glaciolacustrine and lacustrine landforms (e.g. level to undulating plains).

Gravel (Gr) Gravel site types are sites with gravels at the surface and sparse vegetation growth.

Limy (Li) Limy site types generally occur on water shedding slopes developed on glacial till (e.g. tops of hummocky knolls), and eroded side slopes, upper and crest positions of moderate to steep coulee or valley sides. Occasionally found in relatively level glaciolacustrine deposits where a high water table prevents free lime from being leached down through the soil profile.

Loamy (Lo) Loamy site types are often associated with morainal landforms (e.g. undulating to hummocky terrain).

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Overflow (Ov) Overflow site types often occur in valley bottoms in association with lotic site types (see Wetland, below) and are typically below steeper valley slopes. Overflow is largely confined to fan and apron landscapes, but can also occur on terraced settings near streams.

Sand (Sa) Sand site types are typically associated with glaciofluvial (e.g. undulating plains) or eolian landforms (e.g. low-relief dunes less than 10% slope).

Sandy (Sy) Sandy typically ranges from morainal to glaciofluvial areas (e.g. undulating plains).

Sub-irrigated (Sb) Sub-irrigated often occurs in the lower interdune areas associated with Choppy Sandhills (CS) and Sand plains (Sa) where there is sub-surface flow and a high water table, in low areas of Gravels (Gr) and Shallow to Gravel (SwG) plains. Sub-irrigated is distinguished from lentic and lotic features (see Wetland, below) by having water close to the surface, not confined to distinct basins like Lentic features or flowing at the surface in well defined channels like lotic features.

Saline Lowland (SL) Saline Lowlands are areas with negligible vegetation due to electrical conductivity (salts) and/or sodium adsorption ratio limitations. The Saline Lowland site type is not technically a wetland but occurs where the groundwater is at or very close to the surface, and is associated with saline groundwater discharge. Vegetation cover in a Saline Lowland can be variable and patchy or can be dominated by sparse to negligible cover. These site types might also represent discharge zones downstream of highly saline springs.

Shallow to Gravel (SwG) Shallow to Gravel site types often occur on terraces, valley bottoms and occasionally as caps on remnant bedrock uplands and often show evidence of exposed gravels and sparse vegetation growth. Shallow to Gravel is commonly associated with the Sands, Sandy, Loamy and Gravel site types.

Thin Breaks (TB) Thin Breaks are often associated with Badlands/Bedrock, Limy, and Overflow and can be considered a transition between Limy and Badlands/Bedrock. They typically occur on moderate to steep valley slopes. They can also occur as plains with thin surficial sediments (less than 1 m thick) overlying bedrock.

9A.I.3 Riparian

Lotic-Deciduous (LtcD) Sites where deciduous trees other than Manitoba Maple or Aspen Poplar are present (e.g. Plains Cottonwood, Balsam Poplar) and are successfully reproducing which have a combined canopy cover of greater than 25%. Deciduous trees growing on adjacent Upland site types would not be included as part of Lotic Deciduous.

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The Lotic Deciduous (LtcD) site type occurs in all Natural Subregions but is characterized by different species. For example, Plains Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) occurs mainly in the Dry Mixedgrass and Mixedgrass Natural Subregions, while Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) occurs mainly in the Northern Fescue. Aspen poplar (Populus tremuloides) occurs in all Natural Subregions, but to a lesser degree in the Dry Mixedgrass and Mixedgrass Natural Subregions.

Lotic-Herbaceous (LtcH) Any lotic site that does not fit into Lotic River, Lotic Deciduous and Lotic Shrub is classified as Lotic Herbaceous. This typically represents an area of graminoid and forb cover that can range from 0% to 100%.

Lotic-River (LtcR) The Lotic River site type is used for the open water of rivers that are generally wider than 20 m. A Lotic River can also represent a major canal greater than 20 m wide and greater than 500 m in length which is an exception to the Native/Natural condition.

Lotic-Shrub (LtcS) The Lotic Shrub site type has a combined shrub canopy cover of at least 10%, excluding shrubs growing on Upland site types.

9A.I.4 Wetland Lentic or "still water wetlands" occur in basins, lack a defined channel and floodplain and have a defined basin edge. For a correlation oF GVI lentic types to Stewart and Kantrud wetland classes, see Table 9A.I-1.

Lentic – Temporary (LenT) The Lentic Temporary site type describes wetlands surface where water is usually retained for only a brief period in the early spring before the bottom ice seal disappears, and occasionally for several days after heavy rainstorms in late spring, summer and fall. Lentic Temporary basins typically have low prairie vegetation and no salt (saline) crust.

Lentic – Seasonal (LenS) Lentic Seasonal describes wetlands with water persisting more than three weeks, and usually disappearing by early July. The deepest parts of Seasonal wetlands are dominated by the shallow-marsh zone. Peripheral wet-meadow and low-prairie zones are usually present. Lentic Seasonal basins typically have relatively lush vegetation compared to Lentic Temporary due to a higher water table, and do not have a visible salt (saline) crust.

Lentic – Semi to Permanent (LenSP) Lentic Semi to Permanent describes marshes and lakes where water persists throughout the year in most years, except during periods of extreme drought. Lentic Semi to Permanent wetlands are dominated by the deep-marsh and shallow-marsh zones consisting of emergent vegetation like cattails and bulrushes. Wet-meadow and low-prairie zones are usually present, and isolated marginal pockets of fen zones occasionally occur and might be delineated separately.

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Lentic – Alkali (LenA) Lentic Alkali is a still water wetland that holds water for variable time periods ranging from a few weeks to several months, and has a distinct salt (saline) crust. Vegetation cover is variable to none.

Table 9A.I-1 Correlation of GVI Lentic Site Types to Stewart and Kantrud (1971) Wetland Classes

Stewart and Kantrud (1971) Wetland Class Lentic Type Vegetation Zones Present GVI Site Type Class 1 Ephemeral Low-prairie Lentic Temporary (LenT) Class 2 Temporary Low-prairie Lentic Temporary (LenT) Wet-meadow Class 3 Seasonal Low-prairie Lentic Seasonal (LenS) Wet-meadow Shallow-marsh Class 4 Semi-permanent Low-prairie Lentic Semi to Permanent (LenSP) Wet-meadow Shallow-marsh Deep-marsh Class 5 Permanent Low-prairie Lentic Semi to Permanent (LenSP) Wet-meadow Shallow-marsh Deep-marsh Open-water Lentic Water (LenW) Class 6 Alkali Low-prairie Lentic Alkali (LenA) Wet-meadow Shallow-marsh Deep-marsh Intermittent-alkali or fen

Page 9A.I-7 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.II: Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities

Attachment 9A.II Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities

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February 2009 Page 9A.II-2 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.II: Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities

Table 9A.II-1 Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities Site Type1 Range Plant Community2 Successional Community Types2 Modified Plant Communities2 Badlands/ DMGA36 Blue Grama Grass-Salt Grass-Needle Bedrock and Thread DMGC4 Creeping Juniper/Undifferentiated Sedge Blowouts/ DMG16 Western Wheat GrassSedge-Needle Solonetzic and Thread Order DMGA15 Wheat Grass-Needle and Thread-June Grass DMGA17 Needle and Thread - Sandberg Bluegrass DMGA34 Silver Sagebrush/Northern Wheat DMGA31 Silver Sagebrush/Sandberg Grass - June Grass-Blue Grama Grass Bluegrass-June Grass DMGA35 Needle and Thread-June Grass-Blue Grama Grass DMGA39 Wheatgrass - Sandberg Bluegrass DMGA30 Sandberg Bluegrass- Northern Wheat Grass MGA17 Western Wheatgrass-June Grass-Sedge MGA5 Needle-and-Thread-Plains Rough Fescue- Western Wheatgrass MGA9 Silver Sagebrush/Northern Wheatgrass- MGC1 Silver Sagebrush/Western June Grass Wheatgrass-June Grass Choppy DMGC5 Wild Rose/Needle and Thread-Sand DMGC6 Choke Cherry/Northern Sandhills Grass-Low Sedge Wheatgrass-June Grass DMGA32 Needle and Thread-Wild Licorice Clayey DMGA8 Western Wheat Grass-Pasture Sagewort-Prickly Pear Cactus

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Table 9A.II-1 Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities (cont’d) Site Type1 Range Plant Community2 Successional Community Types2 Modified Plant Communities2 Gravel DMGA23 Silver Sagebrush/Needle and Thread- DMGA33 Needle and ThreadPasture Blue Grama Grass-June Grass Sagewort MGA7 Plains Rough Fescue-June Grass- Northern Wheatgrass Limy DMGA24 Silver Sagebrush/Needle and Thread- Western Wheat Grass-Blue Grama Grass Loamy DMGA12 Silver Sagebrush/Needle and Thread - Blue Grama Grass DMGA2 Needle and Thread - Wheatgrass DMGA46 Needle and Thread - Blue Grama - Wheatgrass DMGA3 Needle and Thread - June grass - Blue DMGA10 Blue Grama Grass - Needle Grama Grass and Thread Grass DMGA5 Needle and Thread - Northern - Wheatgrass - Plains Reed Grass DMGA9 Needle and Thread - Thread-leaved Sedge DMGA47 Needle and Thread - Blue Grama -Northern-Wheatgrass DMGA48 Blue Grama - Needle and Thread MGA1 Plains Rough Fescue- Western MGA2 Western Porcupine Grass- MGB1 Crested Wheatgrass- Porcupine Grass-Sedge Plains Rough Fescue Pasture Sagewort MGA10 Idaho Fescue-Northern Wheatgrass- MGA11 Idaho Fescue-Lupine MGB3 Awnless Brome-Alfalfa- Needle-and-Thread Kentucky Bluegrass MGA14 Needle-and-ThreadNorthern Wheatgrass-June Grass MGA21 Wheatgrass-Needle-and- Thread MGA22 Needle-and-Thread-June Grass

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Table 9A.II-1 Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities (cont’d) Site Type1 Range Plant Community2 Successional Community Types2 Modified Plant Communities2 Loamy (cont’d) MGA30 Western Porcupine Grass-Northern Wheatgrass-June Grass MGA4 Needle-and-ThreadNorthern Wheatgrass- June Grass MGA3 Needle-and-Thread-June Grass MGA12 Snowberry/Kentucky Bluegrass-Idaho Fescue MGA13 Canada Bluegrass-Silky Perennial Lupine MGC4 Snowberry/Needle-and- MGB6 Snowberry/Crested Thread-Low Sedge-Northern Wheatgrass-Pasture Sagewort Wheatgrass MGA23 Blue Grama GrassNeedle- and-Thread Overflow DMGA1 Snowberry/Western Porcupine Grass - Needle and Thread DMGA40 Western Wheatgrass- Low Sedge-Green DMGA41 Low Sedge-Western Needle Grass Wheatgrass-Green Needle Grass DMGC1 Silver Sagebrush/ Western Wheatgrass DMGA45 Western Wheat Grass - Salt Grass - Gumweed DMGC3 Silver Sagebrush/Western Porcupine Grass-Wheatgrass DMGC7 Greasewood/ Salt Grass - Western Wheat Grass MGB2 Snowberry/Kentucky Bluegrass-Tufted Hair Grass MGC2 Snowberry/Green Needle Grass-Kentucky Bluegrass

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Table 9A.II-1 Correlation of GVI Site Types to Vegetation Cover Communities (cont’d) Site Type1 Range Plant Community2 Successional Community Types2 Modified Plant Communities2 Saline Lowlands DMGA20 Western Wheat Grass-Sedge DMGA21 Silver Sagebrush/ Wheatgrass - DMGA44 Salt Grass - Western Nuttall’s Atriplex Wheatgrass MGA19 Salt Grass-Western Wheatgrass-Sedge MGA6 Salt Grass-Sedge-Western Wheatgrass MGA29 Salt Grass-Foxtail Barley- Western Wheatgrass Sand DMGA18 Silver Sagebrush/Needle and Thread- Blue Grama Grass-June Grass DMGA43 Needle and Thread- Low Sedge-Sand DMGA19 Silver Sagebrush/Needle Grass and Thread-Sand Grass MGA28 Snowberry/Needle-and- Thread-Sand Grass-Low Sedge Sandy DMGA13 Western Porcupine Grass-Needle and Thread-Sand Grass DMGA14 Western Wheat Grass - Needle and Thread MGA16 Needle-and-Thread- Northern MGB4 Awnless Brome-Sand Wheatgrass-Sand Grass Grass MGA25 Snowberry/Northern Wheatgrass- MGA24 Needle-and-Thread-Low MGB5 Kentucky Bluegrass- Needle-and-Thread Sedge-Pasture Sagewort Common Dandelion-Awnless Brome MGA26 Low Sedge-Pasture Sagewort-Northern Wheatgrass MGA27 Blue Grama Grass-Low Sedge-Needle-and-Thread

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Page 9A.II-7 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Attachment 9A.III Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Tree Acer negundo L. Manitoba maple Betula papyrifera Marsh. white birch Populus balsamifera L. balsam poplar Populus deltoides Marsh. plains cottonwood Populus tremuloides Michx. aspen Shrub Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt. Saskatoon berry Apocynum cannabinum L. Indian hemp Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng. common bearberry Betula occidentalis Hook. water birch Betula pumila L. dwarf birch Betula sp. L. birch species Caragana arborescens Lam. common caragana Cornus stolonifera Michx. red-osier dogwood Elaeagnus commutata Bernh. silverberry Juniperus horizontalis Moench creeping juniper Juniperus scopulorum Sarg. Rocky Mountain juniper Kalmia microphylla (Hook.) Keller mountain laurel Linum lewisii Pursh wild blue flax Lonicera dioica L. twining honeysuckle Lonicera tatarica L. tatarian honeysuckle Prunus pensylvanica L.f. pin cherry Prunus virginiana L. choke cherry Ribes glandulosum Grauer skunk currant Ribes hudsonianum Richards. northern black currant Ribes lacustre (Pers.) Poir. bristly black currant Ribes oxyacanthoides L. northern gooseberry Ribes sp. L. currant species Rosa acicularis Lindl. prickly rose Rosa arkansana Porter prairie rose Rosa sp. L. rose species Rosa woodsii Lindl. common wild rose Rubus idaeus L. wild red raspberry Salix amygdaloides Anderss. peach-leaved willow Salix arbusculoides Anderss. shrubby willow Salix bebbiana Sarg. beaked willow Salix candida Flugge ex Willd. hoary willow

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Shrub Salix discolor Muhl. pussy willow (cont’d) Salix exigua Nutt. sandbar willow Salix lutea Nutt. yellow willow Salix maccalliana Rowlee velvet-fruited willow Salix pedicellaris Pursh bog willow Salix petiolaris Sm. basket willow Salix planifolia Pursh flat-leaved willow Salix pseudomonticola Ball false mountain willow Salix serissima (Bailey) Fern. autumn willow Salix sp. L. willow species Shepherdia argentea (Pursh) Nutt. thorny buffaloberry Shepherdia canadensis (L.) Nutt Canada buffaloberry Spiraea alba Du Roi narrow-leaved meadowsweet Symphoricarpos albus (L.) Blake snowberry Symphoricarpos occidentalis Hook. buckbrush Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. bog cranberry Viburnum edule (Michx.) Raf. low-bush cranberry Graminoid Agropyron dasystachyum (Hook.) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. northern wheat grass Agropyron pectiniforme Roemer & J.A. Schultes crested wheat grass Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. quack grass Agropyron smithii Rydb. western wheat grass Agropyron sp. wheat grass species Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. bluebunch wheat grass Agropyron trachycaulum (Link) Malte ex H.F. Lewis slender wheat grass Agropyron trachycaulum (Cassidy) Malte var. Slender Wheatgrass unilaterale Agrostis scabra Willd. rough hair grass Agrostis sp. L. bent grass species Agrostis stolonifera L. redtop Alopecurus aequalis Sobol. short-awned foxtail Alopecurus pratensis L. meadow foxtail Alopecurus sp. L. foxtail species Beckmannia syzigachne (Steud). Fern. slough grass Bouteloua gracilis (HBK) Lag. blue grama Bromus anomalus Rupre. ex Fourn. nodding brome Bromus inermis Leyss. awnless brome, smooth brome

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Graminoid Bromus pumpellianus Scribn. (cont’d) Bromus sp. L. brome species Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. bluejoint reed-grass Calamagrostis inexpansa A. Gray northern reed grass Calamagrostis montanensis Scribn. ex Vasey plains reed grass Calamagrostis sp. Adans. reed-grass species Calamovilfa longifolia (Hook.) Scribn. sand grass Carex aquatilis Wahlenb. water sedge Carex atherodes Spreng. awned sedge Carex aurea Nutt. golden sedge Carex bebbii Olney ex Fern. Bebb's sedge Carex brevior (Dewey) Mack. slender-beaked sedge Carex concinna R. Br. beautiful sedge Carex douglasii Boott Douglas sedge Carex filifolia Nutt. thread-leaved sedge Carex lanuginosa Michx. Carex obtusata Lilj. blunt sedge Carex parryana var parryana Dewey Parry's sedge Carex pellita Muhl. ex Willd. woolly sedge Carex pensylvanica Lam. sun-loving sedge Carex praegracilis W. Boott graceful sedge Carex prairea Dewey prairie sedge Carex praticola Rydb. meadow sedge Carex sartwellii Dewey Sartwell's sedge Carex siccata Dewey hay sedge Carex sp. L. sedge species Carex sprengelii Dewey ex Spreng. Sprengel's sedge Carex stenophylla Wahl. low sedge Carex utriculata Boott small bottle sedge Carex vaginata Tausch sheathed sedge Carex xerantica Bailey white-scaled sedge Cinna latifolia (Trev.) Griseb. drooping wood-reed Danthonia californica Boland California oat grass Danthonia sp. DC. Danthonia species Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) Beauv. tufted hair grass Deschampsia sp.

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Graminoid Distichlis stricta (Torr.) Rydb. salt grass (cont’d) Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) Beauv. barnyard grass Eleocharis acicularis (L.) Roemer & J.A. Schultes needle spike-rush Eleocharis palustris (L.) R. & S. creeping spike-rush Eleocharis sp. R. Br. spike-rush species Elymus canadensis L. Canada wild rye Elymus innovatus Beal hairy wild rye Elymus junceus Fisch. Russian wild rye Eriophorum gracile Koch. slender cotton grass Eriophorum polystachion L. tall cotton grass Eriophorum sp. L. cotton-grass species Festuca hallii (Vasey) Piper Festuca idahoensis Elmer bluebunch fescue Festuca rubra L. red fescue Festuca saximontana Rydb. Rocky Mountain fescue Festuca sp. L. fescue Glyceria grandis S. Wats. common tall manna grass Glyceria sp. R. Br. manna grass species Glyceria striata (Lam.) A.S. Hitchc. fowl manna grass Helictotrichon hookeri (Scribn.) Henr. Hooker's oat grass Hierochloe odorata L. Beauv. sweet grass Hordeum glaucum Steud. Mediterranean wild barley Hordeum jubatum L. foxtail barley Juncus balticus Willd. wire rush Juncus bufonius L. toad rush Juncus confusus Coville few-flowered rush Juncus nevadensis S. Wats. Nevada rush Juncus sp. L. juncus species Juncus tenuis Willd. slender rush Koeleria macrantha (Ledeb.) J.A. Schultes June grass Lepidium bourgeauanum Thell. western pepper-grass Leymus cinereus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Love Great Basin Lyme Grass Muhlenbergia asperifolia (Nees & Mey.) Parodi scratch grass Muhlenbergia cuspidata (Torr.) Rydb. plains muhly Muhlenbergia glomerata (Willd.) Trin. bog muhly Muhlenbergia richardsonis (Trin.) Rydb. mat muhly

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Graminoid Muhlenbergia sp. Schreb. Muhly grass species (cont’d) Oryzopsis asperifolia Michx. white-grained mountain rice grass Oryzopsis hymenoides (R. & S.) Ricker Indian rice grass Oryzopsis micrantha (Trin & Rupr.) Thurber little-seed rice grass Oryzopsis sp. Michx. rice grass species Phalaris arundinacea L. reed canary grass Poa arida Vasey plains bluegrass Poa canbyi (Scribn.) Piper Canby bluegrass Poa compressa L. Canada bluegrass Poa cusickii Vasey early bluegrass Poa interior Rydb. inland bluegrass Poa juncifolia Scribn. alkali bluegrass Poa palustris L. fowl bluegrass, fowl meadow grass Poa pratensis L. Kentucky bluegrass Poa sandbergii Vasey Sandberg bluegrass Poa secunda Presl alkali bluegrass Poa sp. L. bluegrass species Puccinellia nuttalliana (Schult.) A.S. Hitchc. Nuttall's salt-meadow grass Puccinellia sp. Parl. alkali grass species Schizachne purpurascens (Torr.) Swallen purple oat grass Scholochloa festucacea (Willd.) Link spangletop Scirpus microcarpus J. & K. Presl. small-fruited bulrush Scirpus nevadensis S. Wats Nevada bulrush Scirpus pungens Vahl three-square rush Scirpus sp. L. bulrush species Scirpus validus Vahl common great bulrush Spartina gracilis Trin. alkali cord grass Stipa comata Trin. & Rupr. needle-and-thread Stipa curtiseta (A.S. Hitchc.) Barkworth western porcupine grass Stipa sp. L. needle grass Stipa spartea Trin. porcupine grass Stipa viridula Trin. green needle grass Torreyochloa pallida (J. Presl) J.I. Davis var. few-flowered salt-meadow grass pauciflora (J. Presl) J.I. Davis Typha latifolia L. common cattail

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Achillea millefolium L. common yarrow Actaea rubra (Ait.) Willd. red and white baneberry Agoseris glauca (Pursh) Raf. yellow false dandelion Agrimonia striata Michx. agrimony Alisma gramineum Lej. narrow-leaved water-plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica L. broad-leaved water-plantain Allium cernuum Roth nodding onion Allium textile A. Nels. & J.F. Macbr. prairie onion Alyssum desertorum Stapf desert alyssum Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. common ragweed Anagallis minima (L.) Krause chaffweed Androsace occidentalis Pursh western fairy candelabra Androsace septentrionalis L. northern fairy candelabra Anemone canadensis L. Canada anemone Anemone cylindrica A. Gray long-fruited anemone Anemone multifida Poir. cut-leaved anemone Anemone parviflora Michx. small wood anemone Anemone patens L. prairie crocus Anemone sp. L. anemone species Antennaria aprica Greene low everlasting Antennaria lanata (Hook.) Greene woolly everlasting Antennaria neglecta Greene broad-leaved everlasting Antennaria parvifolia Nutt. small-leaved everlasting Antennaria rosea Greene rosy everlasting Antennaria sp. Gaertn. pussytoes species Aquilegia brevistyla Hook. blue columbine Arabis divaricarpa A. Nels. purple rock cress Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. hairy rock cress Arabis holboellii Hornem. reflexed rock cress Arabis sp. L. rock-cress species Aralia nudicaulis L. wild sarsaparilla Arnica chamissonis Less. leafy arnica Arnica fulgens Pursh shining arnica Arnica rydbergii Greene narrow-leaved arnica Arnica sororia Greene twin arnica Artemisia absinthium L. absinthe wormwood

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Artemisia biennis Willd. biennial sagewort (cont’d) Artemisia campestris L. plains wormwood Artemisia cana Pursh silver sagebrush Artemisia frigida Willd. pasture sagewort Artemisia longifolia Nutt. long-leaved sagewort Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. prairie sagewort Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. var. gnaphaloides Nutt. T foothill sagewort &G Artemisia sp. L. sage species Aster alpinus L. alpine aster Aster campestris Nutt. meadow aster Aster ciliolatus Lindl. Lindley's aster Aster falcatus Lindl. creeping white prairie aster Aster hesperius A. Gray western willow aster Aster laevis L. smooth aster Aster pansus (Blake) Cronq. Aster pauciflorus Nutt. few-flowered aster Aster sp. L. aster species Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) A. Gray two-grooved milk vetch Astragalus crassicarpus Nutt. ground-plum Astragalus dasyglottis Fisch. ex DC. purple milk vetch Astragalus flexuosus Dougl. ex G. Don slender milk vetch Astragalus gilviflorus Sheldon cushion milk vetch Astragalus lotiflorus Hook. low milk vetch Astragalus miser Dougl. timber milk vetch Astragalus pectinatus Dougl. ex Hook. narrow-leaved milk vetch Astragalus purshii Dougl. ex Hook. Pursh's milk vetch Astragalus sp. L. milk vetch species Astragalus spatulatus Sheldon tufted milk vetch Astragalus striatus Nutt. ascending purple milk vetch Astragalus tenellus Pursh loose-flowered milk vetch Atriplex argentea Nutt. silver saltbush Atriplex nuttallii S. Wats. Nuttall's atriplex Atriplex sp L. saltbush Atriplex suckleyi (Torr.) Rydb. endolepis Axyris amaranthoides L. Russian pigweed

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Bidens cernua L. nodding beggarticks (cont’d) Camelina sp Crantz false flax Campanula rotundifolia L. harebell Cerastium arvense L. field mouse-ear chickweed Cerastium brachypodum (Engelm. ex Gray) B.L. Robins Cerastium nutans Raf. long-stalked mouse-ear chickweed Cerastium sp. L. chickweed species Chamaerhodos erecta (L.) Bunge chamaerhodos Chenopodium album L. lamb's -quarters Chenopodium berlandieri Moq. Berlandier goosefoot Chenopodium fremontii S. Wats. Fremont's goosefoot Chenopodium gigantospermum Aellen maple-leaved goosefoot Chenopodium pratericola Rydb. goosefoot Chenopodium salinum Standley oak-leaved goosefoot Chenopodium sp. L. goosefoot species Chrysothamnus nauseosus (Pall.) Britt. rabbitbrush Cicuta maculata L. water-hemlock Cicuta sp. water-hemlock species Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. creeping thistle Cirsium flodmanii (Rydb.) Arthur Flodman's thistle Cirsium sp. Mill. thistle species Cirsium undulatum (Nutt.) Spreng. wavy -leaved thistle Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt. western clematis Cleome serrulata Pursh. bee plant Collomia linearis Nutt. narrow-leaved collomia Comandra umbellata (L.) Nutt. bastard toadflax Convolvulus arvensis L. field bindweed Corydalis sp. Medic. corydalis species Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose cushion cactus Crepis runcinata (James) T. & G. scapose hawk's-beard Crepis species L. hawk's-beard species Crepis tectorum L. annual hawk's -beard Cryptantha fendleri (A. Gray) Greene Fendler's cryptanthe Cryptantha macounii (Eastw.) Payson Macoun's cryptanthe Cryptantha minima Rydb. tiny cryptanthe

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Cryptantha sp. A. Gray (cont’d) Cymopteris acaulis (Pursh) Raf. plains cymopterus Delphinium glaucum S. Wats tall larkspur Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. green tansy mustard Descurainia richardsonii (Sweet) O.E. Schulz Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb flixweed Descurainia sp Webb & Berth. tansy mustard Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) B. & H. fairybells Dodecatheon conjugens Greene mountain shooting star Dodecatheon pulchellum (Raf.) Merr. saline shooting star Draba nemorosa L. annual whitlow-grass Draba sp. L. whitlow grass species Epilobium angustifolium L. common fireweed Epilobium ciliatum Raf. northern willowherb Epilobium palustre L marsh willowherb Epilobium paniculatum Nutt. ex T. & G. annual willowherb Epilobium sp. L. willowherb species Equisetum arvense L. common horsetail Equisetum fluviatile L. swamp horsetail Equisetum hyemale L. common scouring-rush Equisetum laevigatum A. Br. smooth scouring-rush Equisetum pratense Ehrh. meadow horsetail Equisetum sp. L. horsetail species Equisetum sylvaticum L. woodland horsetail Equisetum variegatum Schleich. ex F. Weber & variegated horsetail D.M.H. Mohr Erigeron caespitosus Nutt. tufted fleabane Erigeron canadensis L. horseweed Erigeron glabellus Nutt. smooth fl eabane Erigeron lonchophyllus Hook. Erigeron philadelphicus L. Philadelphia fleabane Erigeron pumilus Nutt. hairy fleabane Erigeron sp. L. fleabane species Eriogonum flavum Nutt. yellow umbrella-plant Erucastrum gallicum (Willd.) Schulz dog mustard Erysimum asperum (Nutt.) DC. prairie rocket

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Erysimum cheiranthoides L. wormseed mustard (cont’d) Erysimum inconspicuum (S. Wats.) MacM. small-flowered rocket Euphorbia esula L. leafy spurge Eurotia lanata (Pursh) Moq. winter-fat Fragaria vesca L. woodland strawberry Fragaria virginiana Duchesne wild strawberry Gaillardia aristata Pursh gaillardia Galeopsis tetrahit L. hemp-nettle Galium boreale L. northern bedstraw Galium labradoricum (Wieg.) Wieg. Labrador bedstraw Galium sp. L. bedstraw species Galium trifidum L. small bedstraw Galium triflorum Michx. sweet-scented bedstraw Gaura coccinea Pursh scarlet butterflyweed Gentiana sp. Pall. felwort species Gentianella amarella (L.) Boerner felwort Geum aleppicum Jacq. yellow avens Geum macrophyllum Willd. large-leaved yellow avens Geum sp. Geum triflorum Pursh three-flowered avens Glaux maritima L. sea-milkwort Glycyrrhiza lepidota Pursh wild licorice Gnaphalium palustre Nutt. marsh cudweed Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh) Dunal gumweed Gutierrezia sarothrae (Pursh) Britt. & Rusby broomweed Habenaria sp. (Willd.) sp orchid species Hackelia americana (A. Gray) Fern. nodding stickseed Hackelia floribunda (Lehm.) I.M.Johnston large-flowered stickseed Halimolobos virgata (Nutt.) Schulz slender mouse-ear-cress Haplopappus lanceolatus (Hook.) T. & G. lance-leaved ironplant Haplopappus spinulosus (Pursh) DC. spiny ironplant Hedeoma hispidum Pursh pennyroyal Hedysarum alpinum L. alpine hedysarum, liquorice root Hedysarum boreale Nutt. northern hedysarum Hedysarum sp. L. liquorice root species Helenium autumnale L. sneezeweed

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Helianthus annuus L. common annual sunflower (cont’d) Helianthus couplandii Boivin Coupland's annual sunflower Helianthus nuttallii T.&G. common tall sunflower Helianthus subrhomboideus Rydb. rhombic-leaved sunflower Heracleum lanatum Michx. cow parsnip Hesperis matronalis L. dame's rocket Heterotheca villosa (Pursh) Shinners golden aster Heuchera richardsonii R.Br. Richardson's alumroot Heuchera species L. alumroot species Hieracium gracile Hook. slender hawkweed Hieracium umbellatum L. Narrow-leaved Hawkweed Hierochloe alpina (Sw. ex Willd.) Roemer & J.A. alpine sweet grass Schultes Hippuris vulgaris L. common mare's-tail Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker butte marigold Hymenoxys richardsonii (Hook.) Cockerell Colorado rubber-plant Iva axillaris Pursh povertyweed Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. summer-cypress Lactuca pulchella (Pursh) DC. common blue lettuce Lactuca serriola L. prickly lettuce Lappula occidentalis (S. Wats.) Greene western bluebur Lappula sp. Moench bluebur species Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Durmort. bluebur Lathyrus ochroleucus Hook. cream-colored vetchling Lathyrus venosus Muhl. purple peavine Lemna minor L. common duckweed Lemna sp. L. duckweed species Lepidium densiflorum Schrad. common pepper-grass Lesquerella arenosa (Richards) Rydb. sand bladderpod Lesquerella sp. S. Wats bladderpod species Liatris ligulistylis (A. Nels.) K.Schum. meadow blazingstar Liatris punctata Hook. dotted blazingstar Linaria vulgaris Hill butter-and-eggs Linum rigidum Pursh yellow flax Lithospermum incisum Lehm. narrow-leaved puccoon Lithospermum sp. gromwell species

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Lomatium foeniculaceum (Nutt.) Coult. & Rose hairy-fruited wild parsley (cont’d) Lupinus pusillus Pursh annual lupine Lycopus asper Greene western water-horehound Lycopus uniflorus Michx. northern water-horehound Lygodesmia juncea (Pursh) D. Don skeletonweed Lysimachia ciliata L. fringed loosestrife Lysimachia hybrida Michx. lance-leaved loosestrife Lysimachia thyrsiflora L. tufted loosestrife Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) A. Gray hoary aster Machaeranthera grindelioides (Nutt.) shinners toothed ironplant Maianthemum canadense Desf. wild lily-of-the-valley Medicago sativa L. alfalfa Medicago sp L. alfalfa Melilotus alba Desr. white sweet-clover Melilotus officinalis (L.) Lam. yellow sweet-clover Melilotus sp. P. Mill. sweet clover species Mentha arvensis L. wild mint Minuartia sp. Loefl. sandwort species Moehringia lateriflora (L.) Fenzl. blunt-leaved sandwort Monarda fistulosa L. wild bergamot Monolepis nuttalliana (Schultes R & S.) Greene spear-leaved goosefoot Musineon divaricatum (Pursh) Raf. leafy musineon Myosotis micrantha Pallas ex Lehm forget -me-not Myosurus aristatus auct. non Benth. mousetail Myosurus species L. mousetail species Navarretia minima Nutt. pin-cushion plant Oenothera biennis L. yellow evening-primrose Oenothera nuttallii Sweet white evening-primrose Onobrychis viciifolia Scop. sainfoin Opuntia fragilis (Nutt.) Haw. brittle prickly-pear Opuntia polyacantha Haw. prickly-pear Orobanche fasciculata Nutt. clustered broom-rape Orthocarpus luteus Nutt. owl-clover Osmorhiza chilensis Hook. & Arn. blunt-fruited sweet cicely Oxalis dillenii Jacq. Gray Green Wood Sorrel

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. (cont’d) Oxytropis monticola A. Gray late yellow locoweed Oxytropis sericea Nutt. early yellow locoweed Oxytropis sp. DC. locoweed species Parietaria pensylvanica Muhl. ex Willd. American pellitory Parnassia palustris L. northern grass-of-parnassus Paronychia sessiliflora Nutt. low whitlow-wort Pedicularis sp. L. lousewort species Penstemon albertinus Greene blue beardtongue Penstemon albidus Nutt. white beardtongue Penstemon gracilis Nutt. lilac-flowered beardtongue Penstemon nitidus Dougl. ex Benth. smooth blue beardtongue Penstemon procerus Dougl. slender blue beardtongue Penstemon species Schmidel beardtongue species Petalostemon candidum (Willd.) Michx. white prairie-clover Petalostemon purpureum (Vent.) Rydb. purple prairie-clover Petasites palmatus (Ait.) Gray palmate-leaved coltsfoot Petasites sagittatus (Pursh) A. Gray arrow-leaved coltsfoot Phlox hoodii Richards. moss phlox Plagiobothrys scouleri (H. & A.) Johnston Scouler's allocarya Plantago elongata Pursh linear-leaved plantain Plantago eriopoda Torr. saline plantain Plantago major L. common plantain Plantago patagonica Jacq. Pursh's plantain Plantago sp. L. plantain species Polygonum amphibium L. water smartweed Polygonum arenastrum Jord. ex Bor. common knotweed Polygonum coccineum Muhl. water smartweed Polygonum sp. L. knotweed species Polygonum viviparum L. alpine bistort Potamogeton sp. L. pondweed species Potentilla anserina L. silverweed Potentilla argentea L. silvery cinquefoil Potentilla arguta Pursh white cinquefoil Potentilla bipinnatifida Dougl. ex Hook. plains cinquefoil Potentilla concinna Richards. early cinquefoil

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Potentilla finitima Kohli & Packer sandhills cinquefoil (cont’d) Potentilla gracilis Dougl. ex Hook. graceful cinquefoil Potentilla hippiana Lehm. woolly cinquefoil Potentilla nivea L. snow cinquefoil Potentilla norvegica L. rough cinquefoil Potentilla palustris (L.) Scop. marsh cinquefoil Potentilla pensylvanica L. prairie cinquefoil Potentilla plattensis Nutt. low cinquefoil Potentilla rivalis Nutt. brook cinquefoil Potentilla sp. L. cinquefoil species Primula incana M.E. Jones mealy primrose Prunella vulgaris L. heal-all Psoralea argophylla Pursh silverleaf psoralea Psoralea esculenta Pursh Indian breadroot Psoralea lanceolata Pursh scurf pea Pyrola asarifolia Michx. common pink wintergreen Pyrola sp. L. wintergreen species Ranunculus circinatus auct. non Sibthorp firm white water crowfoot Ranunculus cymbalaria Pursh seaside buttercup Ranunculus gmelinii De Candolle yellow water crowfoot Ranunculus macounii Britt Macoun's buttercup Ranunculus rhomboideus Goldie prairie buttercup Ranunculus sp. L. buttercup species Ratibida columnifera (Nutt.) Wooton & Standl. prairie coneflower Rhus radicans L. poison ivy Rhus trilobata Nutt. skunkbush Rorippa palustris (L.) Besser marsh yellow cress Rorippa sp. Scop. yellow cress species Rubus pubescens Raf. dewberry, dwarf raspberry Rumex crispus L. curled dock Rumex maritimus L. golden dock Rumex occidentalis S. Wats western dock Rumex salicifolius Weinm. ssp. triagulivalvis Danser narrow-leaved dock Rumex sp. L. dock species Rumex triangulivalvis (Dans.) Rech. f. narrow-leaved dock Salicornia europaea L. auct. non L. samphire

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Salsola kali L. Russian-thistle (cont’d) Sanicula marilandica L. snakeroot Sarcobatus vermiculatus (Hook.) Torr. greasewood Scirpus acutus Muhl. ex Bigelow great bulrush Scutellaria galericulata L. marsh skullcap Selaginella densa Rydb. prairie selaginella Senecio canus Hook. prairie groundsel Senecio integerrimus Nutt. entire-leaved groundsel Senecio pauciflorus Pursh few-flowered ragwort Senecio sp. L. groundsel species Senecio vulgaris L. common groundsel Silene drummondii Hook. Drummond's cockle Silene latifolia Poir. Silene noctiflora L. night-flowering catchfly Silene sp. L. campion species Sisymbrium altissimum L. tumbling mustard Sisyrinchium montanum Greene common blue-eyed grass Sisyrinchium septentrionale Bickn. pale blue-eyed grass Sium suave Walt. water parsnip Smilacina stellata (L.) Desf. star-flowered Solomon's-seal Smilacina trifolia (L.) Desf. three-leaved Solomon's-seal Solanum triflorum Nutt. wild tomato Solidago canadensis L. Canada goldenrod Solidago gigantea Ait. late goldenrod Solidago missouriensis Nutt. low goldenrod Solidago mollis Bartl. velvety goldenrod Solidago multiradiata Ait. alpine goldenrod Solidago rigida L. stiff goldenrod Solidago sp. L. goldenrod species Sonchus arvensis L. perennial sow-thistle Sonchus sp. sow thistle species Sonchus uliginosus Bieb. smooth perennial sow-thistle Sparganium angustifolium Michx. narrow-leaved bur-reed Spergula arvensis L. corn spurry Spergularia salina J. & K. Presl. salt-marsh sand spurry Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. scarlet mallow

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Forb Stachys palustris L. marsh hedge-nettle (cont’d) Stellaria longifolia Muhl. ex Willd. long-leaved chickweed Stellaria longipes Goldie long-stalked chickweed Streptopus amplexifolius (L.) DC. clasping-leaved twisted-stalk Suaeda calceoliformis (Hook.) Moq. western sea-blite Taraxacum officinale Weber common dandelion Taraxacum sp. G.H. Weber ex Wiggers dandelion species Thalictrum sp. L. meadow rue species Thalictrum venulosum Trel. veiny meadow rue Thermopsis rhombifolia Nutt. Richards. golden bean Thlaspi arvense L. stinkweed Townsendia exscapa (Richards.) Porter low townsendia Tragopogon dubius Scop. common goat's-beard Trifolium hybridum L. alsike clover Trifolium repens L. white clover Triglochin maritima L. seaside arrow-grass Triglochin palustris L. slender arrow-grass Urtica dioica L. common nettle Utricularia sp. L. bladderwort species Utricularia vulgaris L. p.p. common bladderwort Veronica peregrina L. hairy speedwell Veronica scutellata L. marsh speedwell Veronica sp L. speedwell Vicia americana Muhl. ex Willd. wild vetch, American vetch Viola adunca Sm. early blue violet Viola canadensis L. western Canada violet Viola nephrophylla Greene bog violet Viola nuttallii Pursh yellow prairie violet Viola palustris L. marsh violet Viola renifolia Gray kidney-leaved violet Viola sp. L. violet species Xanthium strumarium L. cocklebur Zigadenus elegans Pursh white camas Zigadenus venenosus S. Wats death camas Zizia aptera (Gray) Fern heart-leaved Alexanders

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Table 9A.III-1 Alberta Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name and Authority Common Name Moss Amblystegium serpens (Hedw.) Schimp. Brachythecium turgidum (Hartm.) Kindb. Oncophorus wahlenbergii Brid. mountain curved-back moss Orthotrichum obtusifolium Brid. Polytrichum sp. Hedw. hair-cap moss species Pylaisiella polyantha (Hedw.) Grout

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List

Form Latin Name Common Name Tree Acer negundo L. Manitoba maple Populus species L. poplar species Populus tremuloides Michx. aspen Shrub Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt. Saskatoon berry Betula occidentalis Hook. water birch Caragana arborescens Lam. common caragana Cornus stolonifera Michx. red-osier dogwood Crataegus rotundifolia Moench. Pp. non Lanb. round-leaved hawthorn Elaeagnus commutata Bernh. silverberry Juniperus horizontalis Moench creeping juniper Juniperus scopulorum Sarg. Rocky Mountain juniper Linum lewisii Pursh wild blue flax Potentilla fruticosa L. shrubby cinquefoil Prunus pensylvanica L.f. pin cherry Prunus virginiana L. choke cherry Ribes americanum P. Mill. wild black currant Ribes hudsonianum Richards. northern black currant Ribes lacustre (Pers.) Poir. bristly black currant Ribes oxyacanthoides L. northern gooseberry Rosa acicularis Lindl. prickly rose Rosa arkansana Porter prairie rose Rosa sp. L. rose species Rosa woodsii Lindl. common wild rose Rubus idaeus L. wild red raspberry Rubus parviflorus Nutt. thimbleberry

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Shrub Salix bebbiana Sarg. beaked willow (cont’d) Salix candida Flugge ex Willd. hoary willow Salix exigua Nutt. sandbar willow Salix planifolia Pursh flat-leaved willow Salix sp. L. willow species Shepherdia argentea (Pursh) Nutt. thorny buffaloberry Shepherdia canadensis (L.) Nutt Canada buffaloberry Symphoricarpos albus (L.) Blake snowberry Symphoricarpos occidentalis Hook. buckbrush Symphoricarpos sp Duham. snowberry Graminoid Agrohordeum macounii (Vasey) Lepage Macoun's wild rye Agropyron albicans Scribn.& Smith awned northern wheat grass Agropyron dasystachyum (Hook.) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. northern wheat grass Agropyron pectiniforme Roemer & J.A. Schultes crested wheat grass Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. quack grass Agropyron sibiricum (Willd.) Beauv. Siberian wheat grass Agropyron smithii Rydb. western wheat grass Agropyron sp. wheat grass species Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. bluebunch wheat grass Agropyron trachycaulum (Link) Malte ex H.F. Lewis slender wheat grass Agropyron trachycaulum (Cassidy) Malte var. unilaterale Slender Wheatgrass Agrostis scabra Willd. rough hair grass Agrostis sp. L. bent grass species Agrostis stolonifera L. redtop Alopecurus aequalis Sobol. short-awned foxtail Alopecurus carolinianus Walt. Carolina foxtail Alopecurus sp. L. foxtail species Beckmannia syzigachne (Steud). Fern. slough grass Bouteloua gracilis (HBK) Lag. blue grama Bromus anomalus Rupre. ex Fourn. nodding brome Bromus ciliatus L. fringed brome Bromus inermis Leyss. awnless brome, smooth brome Bromus japonicus Thunb. ex Murr. Japanese chess Bromus sp. L. brome species Bromus squarrosus L. field brome

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Graminoid Bromus tectorum L. downy chess (cont’d) Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. bluejoint reed-grass Calamagrostis inexpansa A. Gray northern reed grass Calamagrostis montanensis Scribn. ex Vasey plains reed grass Calamagrostis sp. Adans. reed-grass species Calamovilfa longifolia (Hook.) Scribn. sand grass Carex aquatilis Wahlenb. water sedge Carex atherodes Spreng. awned sedge Carex deweyana Schwein Dewey's sedge Carex douglasii Boott Douglas sedge Carex filifolia Nutt. thread-leaved sedge Carex foenea Willd. dry-spike sedge, hay sedge Carex obtusata Lilj. blunt sedge Carex parryana var parryana Dewey Parry's sedge Carex pellita Muhl. ex Willd. woolly sedge Carex pensylvanica Lam. sun-loving sedge Carex phaeocephala Piper head-like sedge Carex prairea Dewey prairie sedge Carex sp. L. sedge species Carex stenophylla Wahl. low sedge Carex tincta (Fern.) Fern. tinged sedge Carex utriculata Boott small bottle sedge Carex viridula Michx. green sedge Carex xerantica Bailey white-scaled sedge Dactylis glomerata L. orchard grass Danthonia californica Boland California oat grass Danthonia sp. DC. Danthonia species Danthonia spicata (L.) Beauv. ex Roemer & J.H. Schultes poverty oat grass Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) Beauv. tufted hair grass Deschampsia sp. Distichlis stricta (Torr.) Rydb. salt grass Eleocharis acicularis (L.) Roemer & J.A. Schultes needle spike-rush Eleocharis palustris (L.) R. & S. creeping spike-rush Eleocharis sp. R. Br. spike-rush species Elymus canadensis L. Canada wild rye

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Graminoid Elymus innovatus Beal hairy wild rye (cont’d) Elymus junceus Fisch. Russian wild rye Elymus sp. L. wheatgrass species Festuca campestris Rydb. Festuca hallii (Vasey) Piper Festuca idahoensis Elmer bluebunch fescue Festuca ovina L. sheep fescue Festuca rubra L. red fescue Festuca saximontana Rydb. Rocky Mountain fescue Festuca sp. L. fescue Glyceria grandis S. Wats. common tall manna grass Glyceria sp. R. Br. manna grass species Glyceria striata (Lam.) A.S. Hitchc. fowl manna grass Helictotrichon hookeri (Scribn.) Henr. Hooker's oat grass Hordeum jubatum L. foxtail barley Juncus balticus Willd. wire rush Juncus confusus Coville few-flowered rush Juncus longistylis Torr. long-styled rush Juncus sp. L. juncus species Koeleria macrantha (Ledeb.) J.A. Schultes June grass Leymus cinereus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Love Great Basin Lyme Grass Muhlenbergia cuspidata (Torr.) Rydb. plains muhly Muhlenbergia richardsonis (Trin.) Rydb. mat muhly Muhlenbergia sp. Schreb. Muhly grass species Oryzopsis hymenoides (R. & S.) Ricker Indian rice grass Phalaris arundinacea L. reed canary grass Phleum alpinum L. alpine timothy Phleum pratense L. timothy Poa arida Vasey plains bluegrass Poa canbyi (Scribn.) Piper Canby bluegrass Poa compressa L. Canada bluegrass Poa cusickii Vasey early bluegrass Poa interior Rydb. inland bluegrass Poa juncifolia Scribn. alkali bluegrass Poa palustris L. fowl bluegrass, fowl meadow grass

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Graminoid Poa pratensis L. Kentucky bluegrass (cont’d) Poa sandbergii Vasey Sandberg bluegrass Poa secunda Presl alkali bluegrass Poa sp. L. bluegrass species Puccinellia nuttalliana (Schult.) A.S. Hitchc. Nuttall's salt-meadow grass Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash Scirpus microcarpus J. & K. Presl. small-fruited bulrush Scirpus pungens Vahl three-square rush Scirpus sp. L. bulrush species Scirpus validus Vahl common great bulrush Spartina gracilis Trin. alkali cord grass Sporobolus cryptandrus (Torr.) Gray sand dropseed Stipa columbiana auct. non Macoun Columbia needle grass Stipa comata Trin. & Rupr. needle-and-thread Stipa curtiseta (A.S. Hitchc.) Barkworth western porcupine grass Stipa sp. L. needle grass Stipa viridula Trin. green needle grass Triticum aestivum L. common wheat Typha latifolia L. common cattail Forb Achillea millefolium L. common yarrow Agoseris glauca (Pursh) Raf. yellow false dandelion Alisma gramineum Lej. narrow-leaved water-plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica L. broad-leaved water-plantain Allium textile A. Nels. & J.F. Macbr. prairie onion Androsace occidentalis Pursh western fairy candelabra Androsace septentrionalis L. northern fairy candelabra Anemone canadensis L. Canada anemone Anemone multifida Poir. cut-leaved anemone Anemone patens L. prairie crocus Anemone sp. L. anemone species Antennaria aprica Greene low everlasting Antennaria neglecta Greene broad-leaved everlasting Antennaria parvifolia Nutt. small-leaved everlasting Antennaria parvifolia Nutt. small-leaved everlasting Antennaria racemosa Hook. racemose everlasting Antennaria rosea Greene rosy everlasting

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Antennaria sp. Gaertn. pussytoes species (cont’d) Antennaria umbrinella Rydb. brown-bracted mountain everlasting Apocynum androsaemifolium L. spreading dogbane Arabis divaricarpa A. Nels. purple rock cress Arabis holboellii Hornem. reflexed rock cress Arabis sp. L. rock-cress species Aralia nudicaulis L. wild sarsaparilla Arctium minus (Hill) Bernh. common burdock Arenaria sp. L. sandwort species Arnica chamissonis Less. leafy arnica Arnica fulgens Pursh shining arnica Arnica sororia Greene twin arnica Arnica sp. L. arnica species Artemisia abrotanum L. southernwood Artemisia absinthium L. absinthe wormwood Artemisia campestris L. plains wormwood Artemisia cana Pursh silver sagebrush Artemisia dracunculus L. dragonwort Artemisia frigida Willd. pasture sagewort Artemisia longifolia Nutt. long-leaved sagewort Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. prairie sagewort Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. var. gnaphaloides Nutt. T & G foothill sagewort Artemisia sp. L. sage species Asclepias speciosa Torr. showy milkweed Aster campestris Nutt. meadow aster Aster conspicuus Lindl. showy aster Aster ericoides L. tufted white prairie aster Aster falcatus Lindl. creeping white prairie aster Aster laevis L. smooth aster Aster modestus Lindl. large northern aster Aster sp. L. aster species Astragalus americanus (Hook.) M.E. Jones American milk vetch Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) A. Gray two-grooved milk vetch Astragalus cicer L. cicer milk vetch Astragalus crassicarpus Nutt. ground-plum

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Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Astragalus dasyglottis Fisch. ex DC. purple milk vetch (cont’d) Astragalus gilviflorus Sheldon cushion milk vetch Astragalus lotiflorus Hook. low milk vetch Astragalus miser Dougl. timber milk vetch Astragalus missouriensis Nutt. Missouri milk vetch Astragalus pectinatus Dougl. ex Hook. narrow-leaved milk vetch Astragalus sp. L. milk vetch species Astragalus striatus Nutt. ascending purple milk vetch Astragalus vexilliflexus Sheldon few-flowered milk vetch Atriplex argentea Nutt. silver saltbush Atriplex nuttallii S. Wats. Nuttall's atriplex Atriplex sp L. saltbush Besseya wyomingensis (A. Nels.) Rydb. kittentails Callitriche hermaphroditica L. northern water-starwort Campanula rotundifolia L. harebell Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik. shepherd's-purse Cardaria chalepensis (L.) Handel-Mazzetti hoary cress Carum carvi L. caraway Cerastium arvense L. field mouse-ear chickweed Chamaerhodos erecta (L.) Bunge chamaerhodos Chenopodium album L. lamb's -quarters Chenopodium fremontii S. Wats. Fremont's goosefoot Chenopodium pratericola Rydb. goosefoot Chenopodium salinum Standley oak-leaved goosefoot Chenopodium sp. L. goosefoot species Chrysothamnus nauseosus (Pall.) Britt. rabbitbrush Cicuta maculata L. water-hemlock Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. creeping thistle Cirsium flodmanii (Rydb.) Arthur Flodman's thistle Cirsium sp. Mill. thistle species Cirsium undulatum (Nutt.) Spreng. wavy -leaved thistle Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt. western clematis Cleome serrulata Pursh. bee plant Comandra umbellata (L.) Nutt. bastard toadflax Corispermum hyssopifolium L. bugseed Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose cushion cactus

Page 9A.III-25 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Crepis capillaris (L.) Wallr. green hawk's-beard (cont’d) Crepis occidentalis Nutt. small-flowered hawk's-beard Crepis species L. hawk's-beard species Crepis tectorum L. annual hawk's -beard Cryptantha fendleri (A. Gray) Greene Fendler's cryptanthe Cryptantha kelseyana Greene Kelsey's cat's eye Cryptantha macounii (Eastw.) Payson Macoun's cryptanthe Cryptantha minima Rydb. tiny cryptanthe Cryptantha nubigena (Greene) Payson clustered oreocarya Cryptantha nubigena (Greene) Payson var. celosioides (Eastw.) Boivin Cryptantha sp. A. Gray Cryptotaenia canadensis (L.) DC. HONEWORT Delphinium bicolor Nutt. low larkspur Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. green tansy mustard Descurainia richardsonii (Sweet) O.E. Schulz Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb flixweed Descurainia sp Webb & Berth. tansy mustard Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) B. & H. fairybells Dodecatheon conjugens Greene mountain shooting star Dodecatheon pulchellum (Raf.) Merr. saline shooting star Draba sp. L. whitlow grass species Draba ventosa A. Gray whitlow-grass Dryopteris carthusiana (Vill.) H.P. Fuchs narrow spinulose shield fern Epilobium palustre L marsh willowherb Equisetum arvense L. common horsetail Equisetum fluviatile L. swamp horsetail Equisetum laevigatum A. Br. smooth scouring-rush Equisetum pratense Ehrh. meadow horsetail Equisetum sp. L. horsetail species Equisetum variegatum Schleich. ex F. Weber & D.M.H. variegated horsetail Mohr Erigeron acris L. northern daisy fleabane Erigeron caespitosus Nutt. tufted fleabane Erigeron compositus Pursh compound-leaved fleabane Erigeron flagellaris A. Gray creeping fleabane

February 2009 Page 9A.III-26 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Erigeron pumilus Nutt. hairy fleabane (cont’d) Erigeron sp. L. fleabane species Eriogonum flavum Nutt. yellow umbrella-plant Erysimum asperum (Nutt.) DC. prairie rocket Erysimum cheiranthoides L. wormseed mustard Erysimum sp. L. Eurotia lanata (Pursh) Moq. winter-fat Fragaria virginiana Duchesne wild strawberry Gaillardia aristata Pursh gaillardia Galeopsis tetrahit L. hemp-nettle Galium boreale L. northern bedstraw Galium sp. L. bedstraw species Galium triflorum Michx. sweet-scented bedstraw Gaura coccinea Pursh scarlet butterflyweed Gentiana sp. Pall. felwort species Geum aleppicum Jacq. yellow avens Geum macrophyllum Willd. large-leaved yellow avens Geum rivale L. purple avens Geum sp. Geum triflorum Pursh three-flowered avens Glaux maritima L. sea-milkwort Glycyrrhiza lepidota Pursh wild licorice Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh) Dunal gumweed Gutierrezia sarothrae (Pursh) Britt. & Rusby broomweed Gypsophila paniculata L. common baby's-breath Haplopappus spinulosus (Pursh) DC. spiny ironplant Hedeoma hispidum Pursh pennyroyal Hedysarum alpinum L. alpine hedysarum, liquorice root Hedysarum boreale Nutt. northern hedysarum Hedysarum sp. L. liquorice root species Hedysarum sulphurescens Rydb. yellow hedysarum Helenium autumnale L. sneezeweed Helianthus annuus L. common annual sunflower Helianthus couplandii Boivin Coupland's annual sunflower Helianthus subrhomboideus Rydb. rhombic-leaved sunflower

Page 9A.III-27 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Heracleum lanatum Michx. cow parsnip (cont’d) Heterotheca villosa (Pursh) Shinners golden aster Heuchera richardsonii R.Br. Richardson's alumroot Hippuris vulgaris L. common mare's-tail Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker butte marigold Hymenoxys richardsonii (Hook.) Cockerell Colorado rubber-plant Impatiens sp. Lactuca pulchella (Pursh) DC. common blue lettuce Lappula occidentalis (S. Wats.) Greene western bluebur Lappula sp. Moench bluebur species Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Durmort. bluebur Lathyrus ochroleucus Hook. cream-colored vetchling Lathyrus venosus Muhl. purple peavine Lemna minor L. common duckweed Lepidium densiflorum Schrad. common pepper-grass Lepidium ramosissimum A. Nels. branched pepper-grass Lepidium sp. pepper grass species Lesquerella sp. S. Wats bladderpod species Liatris punctata Hook. dotted blazingstar Linum rigidum Pursh yellow flax Lithospermum incisum Lehm. narrow-leaved puccoon Lithospermum ruderale Lehm. woolly gromwell Lithospermum sp. gromwell species Lomatium macrocarpum (Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray) Coult. & long-fruited wild parsley Rose Lupinus pusillus Pursh annual lupine Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart American water-horehound Lycopus asper Greene western water-horehound Lycopus sp. Lygodesmia juncea (Pursh) D. Don skeletonweed Lysimachia ciliata L. fringed loosestrife Lysimachia sp. L. loosestrife species Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) A. Gray hoary aster Machaeranthera grindelioides (Nutt.) shinners toothed ironplant Madia glomerata Hook. tarweed Medicago falcata L. yellow lucerne

February 2009 Page 9A.III-28 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Medicago lupulina L. black medick (cont’d) Medicago sativa L. alfalfa Melilotus alba Desr. white sweet-clover Melilotus officinalis (L.) Lam. yellow sweet-clover Melilotus sp. P. Mill. sweet clover species Mentha arvensis L. wild mint Mertensia paniculata (Ait.) G. Don tall lungwort, bluebell Moehringia lateriflora (L.) Fenzl. blunt-leaved sandwort Monarda fistulosa L. wild bergamot Monolepis nuttalliana (Schultes R & S.) Greene spear-leaved goosefoot Myosotis arvensis (L.) Hill field forget-me-not Navarretia leucocephala Benth. white-flowered navarretia Navarretia minima Nutt. pin-cushion plant Nothocalais cuspidata (Pursh) Greene prairie false dandelion Oenothera andina Nutt. upland evening-primrose Oenothera caespitosa Nutt. butte-primrose Oenothera nuttallii Sweet white evening-primrose Opuntia fragilis (Nutt.) Haw. brittle prickly-pear Opuntia polyacantha Haw. prickly-pear Orobanche fasciculata Nutt. clustered broom-rape Orthocarpus luteus Nutt. owl-clover Osmorhiza depauperata Philippi spreading sweet cicely Oxalis stricta L. Yellow Wood Sorrel Oxytropis monticola A. Gray late yellow locoweed Oxytropis sericea Nutt. early yellow locoweed Oxytropis sp. DC. locoweed species Paronychia sessiliflora Nutt. low whitlow-wort Pedicularis sp. L. lousewort species Penstemon albidus Nutt. white beardtongue Penstemon gracilis Nutt. lilac-flowered beardtongue Penstemon nitidus Dougl. ex Benth. smooth blue beardtongue Penstemon procerus Dougl. slender blue beardtongue Penstemon species Schmidel beardtongue species Perideridia gairdneri (Hook. & Arn.) Mathias squawroot Petalostemon candidum (Willd.) Michx. white prairie-clover Petalostemon purpureum (Vent.) Rydb. purple prairie-clover

Page 9A.III-29 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Petasites sagittatus (Pursh) A. Gray arrow-leaved coltsfoot (cont’d) Petasites sp. Mill. coltsfoot species Phlox hoodii Richards. moss phlox Plagiobothrys scouleri (H. & A.) Johnston Scouler's allocarya Plantago eriopoda Torr. saline plantain Plantago major L. common plantain Plantago patagonica Jacq. Pursh's plantain Plantago sp. L. plantain species Polemonium pulcherrimum Hook. showy Jacob's ladder Polygonum amphibium L. water smartweed Polygonum coccineum Muhl. water smartweed Polygonum sp. L. knotweed species Polygonum viviparum L. alpine bistort Potamogeton sp. L. pondweed species Potentilla anserina L. silverweed Potentilla argentea L. silvery cinquefoil Potentilla bipinnatifida Dougl. ex Hook. plains cinquefoil Potentilla concinna Richards. early cinquefoil Potentilla gracilis Dougl. ex Hook. graceful cinquefoil Potentilla hippiana Lehm. woolly cinquefoil Potentilla norvegica L. rough cinquefoil Potentilla palustris (L.) Scop. marsh cinquefoil Potentilla pensylvanica L. prairie cinquefoil Potentilla sp. L. cinquefoil species Psoralea argophylla Pursh silverleaf psoralea Psoralea esculenta Pursh Indian breadroot Psoralea lanceolata Pursh scurf pea Pyrola asarifolia Michx. common pink wintergreen Ranunculus abortivus L. small-flowered buttercup Ranunculus acris L. tall buttercup Ranunculus cardiophyllus Hook. heart-leaved buttercup Ranunculus cymbalaria Pursh seaside buttercup Ranunculus glaberrimus Hook. early buttercup Ranunculus macounii Britt Macoun's buttercup Ranunculus pedatifidus Sm. northern buttercup Ranunculus sceleratus L. celery-leaved buttercup

February 2009 Page 9A.III-30 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Ranunculus sp. L. buttercup species (cont’d) Ratibida columnifera (Nutt.) Wooton & Standl. prairie coneflower Rhus trilobata Nutt. skunkbush Rumex crispus L. curled dock Rumex occidentalis S. Wats western dock Rumex sp. L. dock species Rumex triangulivalvis (Dans.) Rech. f. narrow-leaved dock Rumex venosus Pursh wild begonia Salsola kali L. Russian-thistle Sarcobatus vermiculatus (Hook.) Torr. greasewood Scirpus acutus Muhl. ex Bigelow great bulrush Scutellaria galericulata L. marsh skullcap Sedum lanceolatum Torr. lance-leaved stonecrop Selaginella densa Rydb. prairie selaginella Senecio canus Hook. prairie groundsel Senecio integerrimus Nutt. entire-leaved groundsel Senecio sp. L. groundsel species Silene drummondii Hook. Drummond's cockle Silene noctiflora L. night-flowering catchfly Silene sp. L. campion species Sisybrium sp. mustard species Sisymbrium altissimum L. tumbling mustard Sisyrinchium montanum Greene common blue-eyed grass Sium suave Walt. water parsnip Smilacina racemosa (L.) Desf. Smilacina stellata (L.) Desf. star-flowered Solomon's-seal Solanum triflorum Nutt. wild tomato Solidago canadensis L. Canada goldenrod Solidago gigantea Ait. late goldenrod Solidago missouriensis Nutt. low goldenrod Solidago mollis Bartl. velvety goldenrod Solidago multiradiata Ait. alpine goldenrod Solidago rigida L. stiff goldenrod Solidago sp. L. goldenrod species Solidago spathulata DC. mountain goldenrod Sonchus arvensis L. perennial sow-thistle

Page 9A.III-31 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Sonchus asper (L.) Hill prickly annual sow-thistle (cont’d) Sonchus sp. sow thistle species Sonchus uliginosus Bieb. smooth perennial sow-thistle Sparganium sp. L. bur-reed species Spergula arvensis L. corn spurry Spergularia sp. Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. scarlet mallow Stachys palustris L. marsh hedge-nettle Stellaria longifolia Muhl. ex Willd. long-leaved chickweed Stellaria sp. L. chickweed species Suaeda calceoliformis (Hook.) Moq. western sea-blite Taraxacum officinale Weber common dandelion Thalictrum occidentale Gray western meadow rue Thalictrum sp. L. meadow rue species Thalictrum venulosum Trel. veiny meadow rue Thermopsis rhombifolia Nutt. Richards. golden bean Thlaspi arvense L. stinkweed Tragopogon dubius Scop. common goat's-beard Trifolium hybridum L. alsike clover Trifolium pratense L. red clover Trifolium repens L. white clover Trifolium species L. clover species Triglochin maritima L. seaside arrow-grass Triglochin palustris L. slender arrow-grass Triglochin sp. L. arrow-grass species Urtica dioica L. common nettle Utricularia sp. L. bladderwort species Utricularia vulgaris L. p.p. common bladderwort Veronica americana Schwein. ex Benth. American brooklime, American speedwell Veronica scutellata L. marsh speedwell Veronica serpyllifolia L. thyme-leaved speedwell Veronica sp L. speedwell Vicia americana Muhl. ex Willd. wild vetch, American vetch Viola adunca Sm. early blue violet Viola canadensis L. western Canada violet

February 2009 Page 9A.III-32 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.III: Alberta and Saskatchewan Species Lists

Table 9A.III-2 Saskatchewan Comprehensive Species List (cont’d)

Form Latin Name Common Name Forb Viola nephrophylla Greene bog violet (cont’d) Viola nuttallii Pursh yellow prairie violet Viola renifolia Gray kidney-leaved violet Viola sp. L. violet species Vulpia octoflora (Walt.) Rydb. six-weeks fescue Zigadenus elegans Pursh white camas Zigadenus sp. camas species Zigadenus venenosus S. Wats death camas Zizia aptera (Gray) Fern heart-leaved Alexanders Lichen Cladonia sp. Hill ex P. Browne club lichen species

Page 9A.III-33 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Attachment 9A.IV Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Page 9A.IV-1 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-2 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-1 Alberta Rare Ecological Community Locations from 2008 Surveys

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Comments Artemisia Silver S2S3 None RA1Y004 563159 5618119 12U Midslopeona cana - sagebrush - 45% NW-facing Atriplex Nuttall's hill, no nuttallii atriplex invasives/noxious weeds Elaeagnus Silverberry / S3 None RA1Y012 513949 5807429 12U MidslopeofW, commutata - Western SW-facing slight Pascopyrum wheat grass 5% slight hill, no smithii invasives/noxious weeds RA1Y025 519584 5788256 12U Wooded shrubland Festuca Plains rough S1 None RA1D009 520136 5777565 12U Upperslopeof hallii fescue 10% hillside Grassland grassland RA1D010 520124 5777424 12U Mesic,lessfescue on the S-facing slope RA1D023 488138 5831890 12U Crest of a S, SW- facing 30% slope Koeleria June grass - S1S2 None RA1Y006 563050 5618279 12U Lower area of a macrantha - Western W- facing 12% Pascopyrum wheat grass mesic slope smithii

Table 9A.IV-2 Alberta Rare Ecological Community Overlap with the Existing Keystone Pipeline Project Locations

Keystone Provincial Global Keystone Kilometre Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Route ID Post Artemisia cana – Stipa Silver sagebrush – needle and S3 None 19 62.10 – 63.40 comata thread Community 66.20 – 66.60

Festuca hallii – Stipa Plains rough fescue – Western S2 None 17 46.53 – 48.65 curtiseta – Carex spp. Porcupine - Sedge Community Pascopyrum smithii – Carex Western wheat grass – low S2S3 None 18 37.10 – 37.30 stenophllya sedge Community 20 2.35–2.85 3.65 – 3.93 4.18 – 4.67 Puccinellia nuttalliana Nuttall’ssaltmeadowgrass S3? G3? 17 56.16–56.60 Stipa curtiseta – Festuca Western porcupine Grass - None None 17 38.1–40.74 hallii Plains rough fescue 46.53 – 48.65 Community 50.282 – 51.40 55.00 – 56.16

Page 9A.IV-3 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-2 Alberta Rare Ecological Community Overlap with the Existing Keystone Pipeline Project Locations (cont’d)

Keystone Provincial Global Keystone Kilometre Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Route ID Post Stipa curtiseta – Festuca 18 10.29–10.69 hallii (cont’d) 14.20 – 18.96 26.19 – 26.92 44.68 – 45.20 46.20 – 47.03 48.33 – 48.68 52.88 – 54.18

Table 9A.IV-3 Saskatchewan Rare Ecological Community Locations

Provincial Global Site Grid Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Comments Acer negundo/ Manitoba maple / S1S2 None RS2D057 698659 5532277 12 Level, Prunus virginiana Choke cherry shrubby riparian area Artemesia Silver S3 G3 RST021 700763 5479229 12 Subxeric cana/Stipa comata sagebrush/Needl crest e and thread

Artemisia cana / Silver S3 G3 RST021 700763 5479229 12 Stipa comata sagebrush/Needl e and thread Artemisia cana / Silver sagebrush S3 None RS2D061 632993 5543623 12 Slight NW- Stipa comata - / Needle-and- facing Calamovilfa thread - Sand midslope, longifolia grass submesic RS2T020 638248 5539731 12 subxeric RS2T022 626241 5550759 12 Subxeric sandy soils Artemisia cana / Silver Sagebrush S2? (blank) RS2D025 704556 5476761 12 Stipa comate – / Needle-and- Pascopyrum thread-Western smithii – Wheat Grass - Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama Calamovilfa Sand Grass - S3 G3 RS1M042 612153 5566643 12 Subxeric, longifolia - Stipa Needle-and- sandy soils comata Thread RS2T016 636189 5540909 12 5%W- facing midslope, subxeric RS2T028 621359 5556409 12 Xeric crest RS2T029 621173 5556817 12 4% S, SW- facing slope on crest, xeric, choppy sandhills

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-4 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-3 Saskatchewan Rare Ecological Community Locations (cont’d)

Provincial Global Site Grid Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Comments Calamovilfa RS2T031 620524 5557373 12 S, SW 8% longifolia - Stipa slope, xeric comata (cont’d) RS2T032 620247 5557564 12 S-facing 8% midslope site, sandy RS2T034 618088 5559949 12 Xeric, lichen RS2T035 617841 5560169 12 Xeric RS2T037 617265 5560865 12 No recent grazing signs RS2T038 616979 5561187 12 Xeric,high bare ground cover Elymus Northern Wheat S2? None RSJ2009 284587 5459953 12 lanceolatus - Grass - Western Pascopyrum Wheat Grass smithii Festuca Mountain Rough S2S3 None RS1M014 695175 5485952 12 20%N- campestris - Stipa Fescue - facing curtiseta Western midslope, Porcupine Grass well drained Festuca hallii Plains Rough S1 None RS2T002 657733 5524227 12 Subxeric Grassland Fescue Grassland Pascopyrum Western wheat S2S3 None RST017 703315 5478266 12 Subxeric smithii - Artemisia grass - pasture site frigida - Opuntia sagewort - polycantha prickly pear grassland grassland Pascopyrum Weatern wheat S1S2 None RS1D002 301798 5444272 13 Class 2 smithii - Artemisia grass - prairie wetland ludoviciana sagewort RS1D009 303832 5442153 13 Zone1ofa Class 2 wetland Puccinellia Nuttall's salt- S3? G3? RS2D060 633862 5542746 12 Class3 nuttalliana meadow grass wetland community community Salix bebbiana / Beaked willow / S3? None RS1B012 661312 5520692 12 Level, Cornus stolonifera Red-osier disturbed, dogwood several introduced species present Sarcobatus greasewood/salt S2 None RS1D019 683737 5500377 13 Patchy vermiculatus/Disti grass - western saline chlis stricta - wheat grass lowland Pascopyrum smithii

Page 9A.IV-5 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-3 Saskatchewan Rare Ecological Community Locations (cont’d)

Provincial Global Site Grid Scientific Name Common Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Comments Sarcobatus Greasewood/We S2S3 None RST016 703687 5477839 12 Wetland vermiculatus/Pasc stern wheat with opyron smithii grass pugging by cattle Sporobolus Sand dropseed S2 None RS1M038 619933 5557903 12 20% S- cryptandrus semi- semi- active facing active dune dune midslope, sandy

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-6 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-4 Alberta Rare Plant Locations

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Number of Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Individuals Comments Anagallis Chaffweed S1S2 G5 SQ6191.5 533293 5667334 12U 100+ Subhygric minima (L.) wetland Krause SQ6202.0 534342 5656618 12U 1000s SQ6210.5S 535369 5648419 12U Not recorded Hygric wetland SQ6211.5 535414 5647599 12U 300+ SQ6217.2 536343 5641783 12U 500+ Continuousmats on upper areas around wetland site Aster Meadowaster S2 G5 RG7001 533799 5659004 12U Notrecorded Flattorolling campestris terrain, crested Nutt. wheat grass invading from adjacent pipeline ROW Aster Few- S2 G4 RA2D048 496285 5826494 12U Not recorded Alkaline wetland, pauciflorus Flowered depression Nutt. Aster RA2D049 494153 5829285 12U Not recorded Depression, low prairie SQ6119.3 530427 5738816 12U 1000s Hygric,heavy cattle grazing Carex Parry's Sedge S1S2 G4T4 RA1Y014 531621 5714595 12U 32 Subhygric parryana var. depression parryana RA1Y016 518022 5793485 12U 38 Toeslopein Dewey disturbed wetland Cerastium Mouse-ear S1 G5 RB7085 517169 5794862 12U Not recorded N side of Red brachypodum Chickweed Deer River (Engelm. Ex. SQ6206.2 536205 5641304 12U 88 Levelwetland, Gray) B.L. ROW on E side Robins. SQ6211.5 534995 5652303 12U 300+ Hygricsoilsin depression

Page 9A.IV-7 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-4 Alberta Rare Plant Locations (cont’d)

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Number of Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Individuals Comments Cryptantha tiny 12U 342 South facing minima Rydb. cryptanthe RB7031 546216 5633762 slope 12U 268 Alongcattletrail, RB7100 544784 5635082 bare ground RB7101 544487 5635283 12U 500 Dry mixed grass 12U 160 Southslope,high RB7102 544259 5635435 litter 12U 100 Midsouthfacing RB7116 540733 5635756 slope TC1-2008 544692 5634793 12U 30 TC2-2008 544753 5634809 12U 45 TC3-2008 544745 5634790 12U 147 TC4-2008 544597 5634836 12U 425+ Dry mixed grass TC5-2008 544456 5635035 12U 533 TC6-2008 544438 5635043 12U 19 TC7-2008 544489 5634997 12U 13 TC8-2008 544491 5635191 12U Not recorded dry mixed grass Endolepis Endolepis S3 (watch) G4? SQ6143.5 535414 5647599 12U Not recorded Mesic badlands, dioica (Nutt.) high natural bare Standl. soil cover

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-8 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-4 Alberta Rare Plant Locations (cont’d)

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Number of Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Individuals Comments Halimolobos Slender S1S2 G4 RA1K001 546456 5635018 12U 70 Submesic, virgata (Nutt.) mouse-ear- Canadian thistle O.E. Schulz cress present RA2D022 546369 5634718 12U 10 Submesic,slight slope facing E RA2D023 546544 5635118 12U 3 Remount Community Pasture, level RA2D024 546419 5635101 12U Not recorded Submesic, overgrazed RA2D026 548292 5635102 12U 47 Undulating terrain, mid N- facing slope RB7018 544242 5635471 12U 130 Dry mixed grass 12U 96 Nearbottomof slope – dry RB7022 547377 5632933 mixedgrass 12U Not recorded - Dry mixed grass RB7100b 544609 5635167 revisit 12U Not recorded - Dry mixed grass revisit Not SMEC-1 547335 5632900 recorded 12U Not recorded - Dry mixed grass revisit Not SMEC-3 544722 5635040 recorded

Page 9A.IV-9 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-4 Alberta Rare Plant Locations (cont’d)

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Number of Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Individuals Comments Lysimachia Lance-leaved S2 G5 RA2D042 520135 5777793 12U 5 Wetland, hybrida loosestrife depression Michx. RA1D012 502276 5818922 12U 1 Hygricwetland with dense surrounding shrub ring RG7016 531100 5727393 12U NotRecorded depression SQ6087.3 521965 5768971 12U 75 Hygricdepression in Northern Fescue Ecoregion SQ6130.7 531103 5727401 12U 34 Subhydric SQ6154.8 532592 5703924 12U 300+ Subhydric wetland Muhlenbergia Scratchgrass S2 (watch) G5 RA1K006 507801 5812961 12U Not recorded Hygric wetland – asperifolia sedge meadow (Nees & Meyen ex Trin.) Parodi Parietaria American S2(watch) G5 RA1Y008 562924 5618689 12U 30 Midslope,10%W- pensylvanica Pellitory facing subhygric Muhl. ex hill Willd. RA1Y011 561810 5619899 12U 7 NearSsideof South Saskatchewan River Potentilla Sandhills S1 G2G4Q RA1Y001 550344 5635069 12U 19 MidslopeofE,NE finitima Kohli Cinquefoil 3% hill, no & Packer noxious weeds RA1D016 546399 5635157 12U 2 Submesic,slightly rolling hills, sandy soil

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-10 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-4 Alberta Rare Plant Locations (cont’d)

Scientific Common Provincial Global Site Grid Number of Name Name Rank Rank Number Easting Northing Zone Individuals Comments Potentilla Low S1S2 G4 RA1K006-1 506948 5813645 12U 125+ Hygric wetland – plattensis Cinquefoil sedge meadow Nutt. RA1K006-2 507649 5813081 12U 17 Hygric wetland – sedge meadow Sisyrinchium Pale Blue S2 G3G4 RA1D018 482111 5833767 12U 1 Subhydric area septentrionale Eyed-Grass with no creek Bickn. observed nearby RA1K006 506947 5813646 12U 11 Hygric wetland – sedge meadow Solidago Velvety S3 G5 RA2D020 537432 5637657 12U Notrecorded Uplandsubmesic mollis Bartl. Goldenrod level site RA2D032 518856 5792056 12U Notrecorded 4%NEmidslope, old improved pasture Solidago RA2D033 515751 5802676 12U Notrecorded NWslightslope, mollis Bartl. mesic (cont’d) RA2D051 487241 5832385 12U Not recorded Rolling terrain, open area in wooded area Spergularia Salt-marsh S2 G5 SQ6128.8 531012 5729280 12U 1000+ Hydric salina J. & K. sand spurry depressional Presl area, estimated forage production 900 kg/ha Torreyochloa Few- S1 G5T5 SQ6128.8 531012 5729280 12U 50+ Hydric pallida (Torr.) Flowered salt- depressional Church var. meadow area, estimated pauciflora (J. grass forage production Presl) 900 kg/ha

Page 9A.IV-11 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Alisma Narrow-leaved S3 G5 RS2D071 601088 5577571 12U Notrecorded Class3wetland gramineum J. G. water plantain Gmel. Alopecurus Carolina S1 G5 RST010 282556 5465169 13U 20 Mesic,heavily carolinianus Foxtail grazed, Walt. RS2D018 282538 5465113 13U Not recorded Val Marie PFRA, Subhygric Class 2 wetland, overgrazed Antennaria Brown-bracted S2/S3 G5 RSJ2030 699360 5480733 12U Not recorded 44% W-facing umbrinella Rydb. mountain midslope everlasting Astragalus Low milk vetch S3 G5 RST034 618159 5559904 12U <10 Subxeric lotiflorus Hook. RST036 617200 5560943 12U Not recorded Subxeric RST039 615710 5562662 12U 15 Subxeric RST040 615007 5563424 12U Not recorded Subxeric, small amounts of crested wheat grass Astragalus Tufted Milk S2/S3 G5 RS2D037 648054 5483070 12U Not recorded Upper slope spatulatus Sheld. vetch Cryptantha Macoun's S1 G3/G5 RST009 293817 5452862 13U 24 Lowerslope, celosioides cryptanthe SW-facing, (Eastw.) Payson burned area, subxeric and rocky RST011 287737 5459796 13U 1 Subxeric dry rocky hilltop RST013 672090 5512856 12U Not recorded Xeric crest RS1B002 672901 5512449 12U 3 18% NE-facing midslope

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-12 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location (cont’d)

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Cryptantha RS1B008 783001 5464664 13U 8 10% NE- facing celosioides upperslope (Eastw.) Payson RST030 282281 5465416 13U Not recorded Subxeric crest (cont’d) RST033 717454 5466237 12U 6 Subxeric crest RS2T008 669430 5514071 12U Not recorded Subxeric, high lichen cover RS2T009 673046 5512312 12U Not recorded Subxeric, high lichen cover, Delphinium Low larkspur S2S3 G4G5T4T5 RS1B009 661219 5520496 12U Not recorded 24% N-facing bicolor Nutt. midslope, high species diversity Dodecatheon Mountain S3? G5T3T5 RS1B009 661219 5520496 12U 100s 24% N-facing conjugens shooting star midslope, high Greene species diversity Elymus piperi Giant wild rye S1S2 G5 RSJ2030 699360 5490733 12U Not recorded 44% W-facing Bowden midslope RS1B017 635348 5541514 12U Not recorded Xeric, reclaimed fescue invading from old pipeline ROW Erigeron Compound- S3 G5 RST013 657102 5524946 12U 2 Xeric crest compositus leaved RS2D045 656925 5525136 12U Not recorded Cypress-like Pursh. fleabane grassland RS2D047 702829 5478613 12U Not recorded Crest of NW- facing slope RSJ2009 292279 5454615 13U Notrecorded Heavilyused area RSJ2023 287587 5459953 13U Notrecorded 8%slope

Page 9A.IV-13 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location (cont’d)

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Erigeron RSJ2024 703388 5478174 12U Not recorded S, SE-facing compositus 17% upper Pursh. (cont’d) slope RSJ2030 717446 5466254 12U Notrecorded 44%W-facing midslope Hedeoma Pennyroyal S3 G5 RS1D005 311612 5434089 13U Not recorded Gently rolling hispidum Pursh. uplands, crested wheat grass present RS1D008 313089 5431989 12U Not recorded Submesic crest of hill Juncus confusus Few-flowered S2 G5 RS2D046 657601 5524362 12U Not recorded Lowland area, Coville rush not wetland, mesic Lupinus pusillus Annual lupine S2/S4 G5 RS1M035 621195 5556793 12U 1 Subxeric crest Pursh. of knoll, very dry RS1M036 620847 5357171 12U 4 Sandysoils, high bare ground cover RS1M037 620276 5557544 12U 4 8%upperslope of S-facing hill, sandy soils, high bare ground cover RST025 671697 5513039 12U 10 Frenchman River Valley RST027 620902 557124 12U 20+ NWof Shaunavon RST035 620533 5557378 12U Not recorded Xeric site

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-14 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location (cont’d)

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Lupinus pusillus RS2T007 617902 5560160 12U 1 By Swift Current Pursh. (cont’d) Creek, midslope 15% facing E, SE RS2T030 699348 5480774 12U 1 10%NW-facing midslope, xeric RS2T031 668660 5514444 12U 2 8%slopefacing S, SW, xeric, cattle trails present RS2T035 617761 5560337 12U 5 Xeric Navarretia White-flowered S3 G5T4? RS1M044 601561 5577488 12U Not recorded ~20x20m leucocephala navarretia heavily grazed Benth. depressional area, mesic Incidental 601561 5577488 12U Notrecorded Oenothera Butte primrose S3 G5 RS2T038 616979 5561187 12U 20+ Xeric, sandy caespitosa Nutt. soils with high bare ground cover RS2T041 616097 5562185 12U 5 Xeric,highlitter cover RS2T042 616538 5561687 12U 2 Xeric,highlitter cover Osmorhiza Spreading S3S4 G5 RS1M031 655608 5526401 12U Not recorded Midslope facing depauperata white cicely North, shrubby, Phil. mesic Plantago Pursh's S2/S4 G5 RS1M041 611795 5567096 12U 100+ Subxeric upland patagonica Jacq. plantain RS1M042 612138 5566619 12U 100s Subxeric,sandy soils RST018 307648 5438615 13U 20+

Page 9A.IV-15 February 2009 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location (cont’d)

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Plantago RS2D005 699829 5479876 12U Not recorded Subxeric crest patagonica Jacq. RS2D033 612459 5566263 12U Not recorded Mesic eroding (cont’d) coulee sides RS2D068 621353 5556416 12U Not recorded Tragopogon dubius present RS2T028 620524 5557373 12U 20+ Xeric crest RS2T031 702700 5478650 12U Not recorded 8%, S, SW xeric slope RSJ2025 702703 5478644 12U Notrecorded 20%midslope facing SW, heavily eroded Ranunculus heart-leaved S1S2 G4G5 RS1M028 653574 5528219 12U Not recorded cardiophyllus buttercup RS1M030 657254 5524797 12U Notrecorded Lowlandwith Hook. some wetland species Sedum Lance-leaved S3? G5 RS1B009 661219 5520496 12U 1 24% N-facing lanceolatum stonecrop slope (mid) Torr. RS1M031 655608 5526401 12U Notrecorded MidslopeofN- facing shrubby coulee side, mesic RS1M032 655525 5526484 12U Not recorded 30% upperslope, submesic RST027 668660 5514444 12U 20+ Veronica Thyme-leaved S1 G5 RS1B012 661312 5520692 12U Not recorded Cypress Hills serpyllifolia var. Speedwell complex, level, homifusa L. poor condition with high degree of introduced species

February 2009 Page 9A.IV-16 Keystone XL Pipeline Project Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Attachment 9A.IV: Location for Rare Plants and Rare Ecological Communuites

Table 9A.IV-5 Saskatchewan Rare Plant Location (cont’d)

Common Provincial Site Grid Scientific Name Name Rank GlobalRank Number Easting Northing Zone #Individuals Comments Vulpia octoflora Six-weeks S2 G5 RS2T002 668023 5514732 12U Not recorded Subxeric (Walt.) Rydb. fescue RSJ2018 284290 5463372 13U Not recorded Poor condition range

Page 9A.IV-17 February 2009