Title
Donation of the SW13-53-6-W5 for conservation purposes
Proposed Motion(s)
1) That the SW13-53-6-W5 be donated to Alberta Fish & Game Association (AFGA) and Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) for conservation purposes
2) Adminstration be directed to enter into an agreement for the transfer of the title of SW13-53-6-W5 to AFGA and ACA
Body
Administration Recommendation(s)
Administration supports the proposed motions.
Purpose
Donation of the land will help conserve the land and wildlife from negative environmental impacts and facilitate the use, enjoyment and understanding of the habitat area by the public
Summary
Two years ago it was brought to the County's attention that environmental damage was occurring on the County-owned SW13-53-6-W5 by authorized OHV use. It was suggested the land and wildlife could be better protected if it were owned and managed by a conservation organization such as AFGA. On March 15, 2011 the County's Governance & Priorities Committee (GPC) received a presentation from AFGA Habitat Coordinator, Brad Fenson, and ACA President & CEO, Dr. Todd Zimmerling. GPC accepted the presentation as information and directed Administration to continue working with AFGA. ACA subsequently conducted a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (see Attachment 1) on the 1/4. It confirmed the potential of the site and determined it to be an excellent candidate for the Provincial Habitat Securement Program. Additional direction was provided again by GPC Dec 11, 2012 with respect to having Administration bring forward a request for decision to Council to move forward with the donation, taking into consideration the possible need for wilderness camping in conjunction with environmental and outdoor interpretation training by youth groups on the site.
Both AFGA and ACA work together to manage lands for habitat preservation. That goal is achieved by ensuring the lands, in most cases, are limited to foot access, erecting signage and access control measures, and implementing programs to maintain the habitat and share it with the youth, the general public and other organizations. AFGA and ACA partner with municipalities, other organizations and corporations to help sustain long-term conservation efforts. AFGA has several projects in Parkland, some of which are in partnership with TransAlta. AFGA welcomes the opportunity to work with youth groups, such as the Girl Guides, and would allow youth group wilderness camping associated with outdoor education and environmental education programming, provided no buildings are erected. AFGA and ACA would work with youth groups on interpretive programs, reclamation of damaged areas, and habitat initiatives such as involving youth to build and erect bird nesting boxes. AFGA and ACA would jointly own the donated property. In the unlikely event that both AFGA or ADA cease to exist or no longer wish to own the property, the transfer agreement condition will be caveated on the title giving Parkland County first right of refusal for $1.
The 1/4 section is located 0.8 km (0.5 mi) NW of the Summer Village of Seba Beach. It is enroute from the campgrounds in Seba to nearby Crown lands adjacent to this 1/4 on the north, and the Jackpine Grazing Reserve to the west. The land is heavily-treed with exception of a small waterbody in the northerly portion and a low-lying, high water table depressional area running N/S down the middle. Neighbouring property owners have suggested the land be set aside for conservation purposes to reduce the environmental impacts of OHV use. One also requested to the 1/4 for a Girl Guide wilderness campsite and outdoor education programs.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications
Supports Council's Strategic Plan - Goal #1 regarding environmental stewardship, and Strategy #1 to increase public education.
Supports ICSP Goal #10 to minimize damge caused by vehicles, horses and pedestrians in environmentally sensitive areas, Goal #11 to minimize destruction of waterways, wetlands and riparian areas, and Goal #19 to support local community initiatives and increase the level of resident participation relating to sustainability.
Financial Impact:
Cost: NA
Source of Funding: NA
Other