A Watershed Management Approach to Develop Community Awareness and Land-Use Planning
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Water
Project value$581,673
Project Type
Plan
Sub Sector
Watershed Management
Grant amount$225,000
Program type
GMF
Municipality
Rural Municipality of District of Lakeland No. 521, SK
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
1,300
Project timeline
2006 - 2011
Project number
3110
Description
The project is a comprehensive study of the aquatic environment and riparian areas around Lac La Biche, Alberta. Lakeland County and the Town of Lac La Biche face immense pressures to allow development around the lake. A 2003 study showed that as much as 69 per cent of the riparian areas around Lac La Biche are degraded and not providing necessary ecological functions. This study involves riparian assessments, Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping of the watershed, identifying sources of poor water quality, investigating long-term changes in water quality, and developing an integrated watershed management plan. The watershed management plan will include requirements for allowable development, development densities, development types, minimum setbacks, water quality objectives, standards for riparian health, fisheries production, sewage treatment, and stormwater management. GIS mapping will be used to determine current lake use practices and identify sustainable long-term development patterns. Land use cover will be delineated and sensitive or critical areas identified. Water quality will be tested for fecal bacteria and caffeine to identify septic loading into the lake. If significant stressors are found, minimum water and sewer standards for multi-lot subdivisions can be raised.
Applicant
Rural Municipality of District of Lakeland No. 521, SK