NSRP Lake Management History and Current Progress Dave Mussell Red Deer River Wateshed Alliance Spring Forum, Alix AB

Current Central Alberta Lake Issues Declining water levels Algal blooms Development / land use changes in watersheds Recreation-related impacts Invasive species Jurisdictional confusion

North Saskatchewan Regional Plan Current timeline –Spring/Summer 2016 Regional Advisory Council advice consultation –Summer/Fall 2016 complete draft plan –Winter 2016/2017 consultation on draft plan –Spring 2017 – approval of final plan Regional Advisory Council identified lakes as a priority in the NSRP

NSRP RAC Advice on Lakes RAC was asked to provide advice on the following: –Achieving an appropriate balance for lakes in the region between a healthy environment with the current and future pressures and uses, including recreation, municipal, industrial and agricultural activities. This should include suggestions on strategies or approaches to best achieve this balance. RAC’s recommendations on lake management focused on four areas: –Monitoring and science –Planning and governance –Education and awareness –Regulatory and guideline approaches

Relevant Projects Parkland County’s Wabamun Lake Subwatershed Land Use Plan –A municipal planning document that will specify “lake-friendly” development policies and actions within Wabamun Lake’s watershed to protect Wabamun’s social, economic, and ecological values Lesser Slave Lake Integrated Watershed Management Plan –Will provide general guidance for several municipalities in the LSL watershed with the objective of protecting social, economic, and ecological lake values Pigeon Lake Model Land Use By-Law –A municipal regulatory tool that establishes science-based buffers and limits for development in critical lake watershed areas

Key management opportunities Coordinated education: example AIS program (see next) Monitoring and science: AEMERA / Environment and Parks Improved coordination, referrals between counties and E&P Support for improved municipal tools for lake watershed care Better communication and integration between Operations and Planning Regional plans Sub-regional plans Anticipated provincial policy on lakes and lake management

Aquatic Invasive Species Program Multi-pronged education program combined with inspections AIS Standing Committee: Cross- ministry committee to communicate and coordinate AIS action and education Inspections at borders, public boat launches Communication / education program Report it to Alberta’s invasive species hotline at BOAT (2628).

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