Title
Whitewood Sands Bioengineering Project Update
Proposed Motion
That the Whitewood Sands Bioengineering Project update be received for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion.
Purpose
The report provides an overview of the shoreline restoration work being completed along Wabamun Lake.
Summary
Ice Heaves in the winter of 2018 caused extensive damage to the shoreline of Wabamun Lake. The unofficial access point in the Whitewood Sands subdivision saw loss of shoreline, ground slumping and steep eroding banks as a result of the ice action. The area was also damaged by heavy equipment used by private landowners to fix their shorelines. The Water Act required the County deal with the erosion and sedimentation issues. Administration used this as an opportunity to restore the shoreline using natural infrastructure that will provide a higher level of protection in the future as well as educational opportunities for staff and residents. The techniques used are known as soil bioengineering and involve low maintenance solutions using live plant material . They provide a number of co-benefits such as biodiversity, wildlife habitat and water quality. As a result of using natural infrastructure solutions, the project was funded by the provincial Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
This initiative supports the following high-level plans:
Council's Strategic Plan Complete Communities and Environment & Agriculture pillars.
Integrated Community Sustainability Plan long-term objectives.
Financial Impact:
Cost: $46,900
Source of Funding: Provincial Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program (WRRP)