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 sign...
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