Alberta Capital Airshed Alliance

The Alberta Capital Airshed Alliance (ACAA) is a consensus based forum for air quality monitoring and policy recommendation and implementation. The ACAA brings together stakeholders living and operating in Alberta's capital region including industry, government, non-government organizations and non-profit community groups. ACAA members partner in protecting and improving air quality by:

• developing comprehensive air quality management recommendations;
• providing an open, transparent and sustainable forum for air issues; and
• informing the public about the quality of the air and air issues.

Contact: Yayne-abeba.Aklilu@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: August 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.capitalairshed.ca/

Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership

The Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership is a partnership whose mission is to protect and maintain the integrity of the natural environment while promoting the growth and prosperity of Alberta’s urban centers. The partnership is comprised of municipal and provincial governments, provincial agencies, and non-profit organizations that share an interest in promoting changes in land development practices so the degradation of the natural environment is prevented or reduced. The number one goal of the Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership is to facilitate the development of a made in Alberta low impact development strategy that is consistent with and achieves the desired outcomes of the province's Water for Life initiative.

Recent work of the Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership includes:

• Making progress in defining how the Province's Water for Life vision will be translated into actions on the ground by educating and encouraging land developers to utilize low impact development practices;
• Continued collaboration with British Columbia regarding the elements of an inter-provincial partnership; and,
• Introduction of the Water Balance Model, which provides practitioners with a ‘runoff-based tool' for source control evaluation and stream health assessment. The ‘runoff-based approach' holds the key to assessing environmental impacts in watercourses and the effectiveness of mitigation techniques.

If you would like more information on the Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership or wish to be involved, please contact Brian Chinery.

Contact: Brian.Chinery@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2004
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.waterbalance.ca/waterbalance/home/wbnAB
Index.asp

Alberta Water Council

The Alberta Water Council is a consensus-based, multi-stakeholder partnership with 25 members from governments, industry and non-government organizations, all with a vested interest in water issues. The Council’s primary role is to monitor and steward implementation of Water for Life: Alberta’s Strategy for Sustainability, and to champion achievement of the strategy’s three outcomes: safe, secure drinking water supply; healthy aquatic ecosystems; and reliable, quality water supplies for a sustainable economy. Membership consists of representatives of four broad categories including: industry; non-government organizations; provincial ministries and agencies; and other governments.

Contact: Kelly.Ness@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Council was formed in May 2004
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.albertawatercouncil.ca/

Alberta Water Council – Policy Issues and Gaps Project Team

This strategy will evaluate issues and gaps in water policy management to support the implementation of Water for Life. A multi-stakeholder committee is being assembled to evaluate current water related policies. The committee will prepare a report outlining priorities, recommendations and a plan to address priority issues. This report will be available in Spring 2007.

Contact: Andy.Ridge@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: July 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Spring 2007

Link: http://www.waterforlife.gov.ab.ca/awc/index.html

Alberta Water Quality Awareness Day

Each June, hundreds of Albertans participate in Alberta Water Quality Awareness Day; exploring the health of their local waterways as part of this province-wide community water monitoring event. Working together, Albertans from across the province:

• Get outside and have fun exploring their watersheds
• Test the water quality of various surface water bodies with their Alberta Water Quality Awareness Day test kit
• Increase their understanding and awareness of our water resources
• Create a province-wide snapshot of basic water quality during the month of June
• Illustrate a common interest in the health of our waterways

Contact: env.education@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Annually in June
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.awqa.ca

Alberta’s Environment Conference

In spring of 2005 and 2006, Alberta Environment coordinated the delivery of Alberta’s Environment Conference in partnership with the Environmental Services Association of Alberta, other government departments and organizations. The conference was intended to increase stakeholder awareness and understanding of government initiatives, and show how government and our partners are leading the way, working together and making a difference. Presentations and keynote addresses from the conference are retained online for the benefit of conference delegates and other stakeholders unable to attend the event.

Contact: env.education@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: April 2005, May 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.environment2005.com

Link: http://www.environment2006.com

Albertans & Climate Change: Meeting the Challenge

Albertans had an opportunity to help shape Alberta's next plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout the province.

A series of 10 community workshops was held throughout the province during March and April of 2007 in order to give Albertans an opportunity to provide input on the climate change plan. Building on the community workshops, Alberta Environment hosted two multi-party round table sessions in May to discuss goals, principles, key choices and options the plan should consider. Following that, an expert panel of climate change experts from Alberta and across the world met in June to provide input on Alberta's path forward. The strategy was released on January 24, 2008.

Contact: Andy.Ridge@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: March 14, 2007
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October, 2007

Link: http://environment.alberta.ca/643.html

Apportionment of the St. Mary and Milk River between Canada and the United States

The 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty and the 1921 Order of the International Joint Commission governs the sharing of the waters of the St. Mary and Milk Rivers. In 2003, the State of Montana requested that the International Joint Commission open the 1921 Order for review. Alberta’s objective is to ensure its rights to the waters of the St. Mary and Milk River, as defined by the 1921 Order, are not reduced. Alberta has represented its interests to the International Joint Commission and been working with local interest groups and stakeholders (such as the Alberta Irrigation Projects Association and municipalities) to assist them to prepare for and participate in International Joint Commission activities, if they decide to do so, at public meetings and submissions.

Contact: Sal.Figliuzzi@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: May 2004 and as required
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/water/GWSW/Quantity/Wate
rinAlberta/Apportionment/TB_Transboundary/TB2_
boundary_waters_treaty.html

Baptiste Lake Watershed Management Plan

A comprehensive watershed management plan is being developed for Baptiste Lake. This plan will increase awareness of factors that effect lakes and watersheds, determine the health of Baptiste Lake, and develop an action plan that will protect Baptiste Lake.

Baptiste, Island and Skeleton Lakes Watershed and Lake Stewardship Council is leading the development of the Baptiste Lake Watershed Management Plan. The Baptiste, Island and Skeleton Lakes Watershed and Lake Stewardship Council includes representatives from the town of Athabasca and the County of Athabasca.

Initial public consultation: December 2005
Public consultation to review the terms of reference: November 29, 2006
Public Consultation for the State of the Watershed report: to be determined
Public consultation to review the draft plan: to be determined.

Contact: Abdi.Siad-Omar@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Battle River Basin Water Management Plan

This planning exercise, currently nearing completion, is seeking to set allocation limits and Water Conservation Objectives for the watershed. Central to the planning process has been consideration of both environmental protection and socio-economic concerns. Public consultation to date has been targeted through a multi-stakeholder and multi-government recommendations group. Public updates in the form of newsletters and a website have occurred throughout the process. A full ranging public consultation program is anticipated once a draft plan is completed.

Contact: Doug.Yeremy@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing, consultation on draft plan to be announced.
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/water/regions/battle/ind
ex.html

Link: http://www.battleriverwatershed.ca/

Battle River Watershed Alliance

The Battle River Watershed Alliance is an inclusive, collaborative and consensus-based community partnership that is working to guide, support and deliver actions to sustain or improve the health of the Battle River watershed. The Battle River Watershed Alliance seeks to achieve this through knowledgeable community participation and an adaptive approach.

Contact: Greg.Nelson@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.battleriverwatershed.ca/

Beverage Container Recycling Regulation Review

The Beverage Container Recycling Regulation lays the framework for the deposit/refund beverage container recycling system in the province. In 2007 the Regulation underwent a mandatory review to determine its continued relevance and efficacy. As part of the review, stakeholder consultation and public consultation was done to collect input on the Regulation.

Contact: Brenna.McLennan@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: March 2007
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October 2007

Bow River Basin Council

The Bow River Basin Council was recognized by the Provincial Government as the Watershed Planning and Advisory Council for the Bow River Basin in December 2004. The mission of the Bow River Basin Council is to provide or support actions for the purposes of protecting and improving the waters of the Bow River Basin and with respect to any social, cultural, economic and environmental aspects.

The Bow River Basin Council completed the Bow Basin Watershed Management Plan: Phase One Water Quality in September 2008.

Goals for 2009/10 include:

• Implementation of the Bow Basin Watershed Management Plan recommendations via a multi-stakeholder Bow Basin Watershed Management Plan Implementation Committee.
• Concept development for future State of the Watershed reporting.
• Identification of future planning phases for the Bow Basin Watershed Management Plan.
• Successful delivery of the Bow River Basin Council quarterly forums utilizing enhanced networking and sharing of information.
• Timely completion of the Bow River Basin Council newsletters and updates to the Bow River Basin Council website.

Contact: Mark.Bennett@brbc.ab.ca
Contact: Rob.Wolfe@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: There are no public involvement initiatives scheduled at this time. To learn more about the Bow River Basin Council and their projects, or if you wish to get involved, please visit the Bow River Basin Council website at the address shown below.
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: There are no public initiatives scheduled at this time.

Link: http://www.brbc.ab.ca

Buffalo Lake Management Team

Buffalo Lake Management Team was formed in 1991 during construction of the Buffalo Lake – Parlby Creek Water Management project. The Team, appointed by the Environment Minister, consisted of local volunteers and a number of government representatives to ensure the project addressed local water management concerns effectively. The Team’s first task was to monitor environmental mitigation projects to ensure they were effectively carried out. Since the time of their appointment, the Team has continued to meet to discuss and resolve, when possible, ongoing management issues. The Team also provides the Minister with advice on water management matters that are beyond the scope of the Team but have an impact on local water issues.

One major concern for the Team has been the ongoing and increasing project power costs. The Team has investigated a number of options to address this concern and determined wind generation may provide a solution for ongoing project sustainability.

Recently, the Team has worked with department staff and Alberta Innovation and Science to initiate a wind generation feasibility study. The one-year study period began in October 2006 and will record wind data from three sites in the area of the Buffalo Lake pumphouse on the Red Deer River. On completion of the study, the Team will compile the data and determine if a wind generation facility is practical for the local area.

Contact: info@BLMT.ca
Contact: Doug.Neis@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.blmt.ca/

Calgary Regional Airshed Zone

Alberta Environment is working in partnership with the Calgary Health Region and the Clean Air Strategic Alliance to establish a multi-stakeholder group to develop the Calgary Region Airshed Zone.

Calgary Region Airshed Zone will help to:

• Identify air quality issues specific to the region;
• Understand major factors affecting air quality in the region through improved air quality monitoring;
• Provide insight on possible impacts of air quality on human and environmental health; and,
• Develop an air quality management plan for the region by 2008 to address intermittent high levels of ozone and particulate matter.

Airshed zones enable local stakeholders to design solutions to address regional or local air quality issues. Airshed zones are guided by local or regional multi-stakeholder non-profit societies who use the Clean Air Strategic Alliance consensus model to make decisions.

Alberta Environment is an active member of Calgary Region Airshed Zone. If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Heather Sinton.

Contact: Heather.Sinton@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: August 2003
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.calgaryhealthregion.ca/hecomm/envhealth
/Ambient_Air_Quality/Ambient_Air_Quality_infor
mation.htm

Calgary Regional Partnership

The Calgary Regional Partnership is an incorporated association of nineteen municipalities and communities in the Calgary Region from Banff, to Crossfield, to Wheatland County, to Nanton. The Calgary Regional Partnership’s motto “thinking regionally and acting locally” applies to its many projects aimed at sustainable environments, sustainable prosperity and sustainable municipal services.

The Calgary Regional Partnership is currently managing a variety of projects such as:

• Regional Water/Waste Water Servicing Project;
• Regional Geographic Information System Project;
• Organizational Capacity Project;
• Enhancement of Community Capacity Project;
• Opportunity Identification Project;
• Marketing of the Calgary region;
• Organic Waste Reduction Project;
• Specialized Transportation Demonstration Project; and,
• Emergency Communications Enhancement Project.

Alberta Environment is an active member of the Calgary Regional Partnership. If you would like more information on the Calgary Regional Partnership or wish to be involved, please contact Jay Litke.

Contact: Jay.Litke@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.calgaryregion.ca/

Calumet Synergy Group

The Calumet Synergy Group, formed in 2004, is made up of local landowners, industry, various levels of government and regulatory agencies. The Greater Calumet area extends east from Highway 815 to Highway 21 and north from Highway 12 to Highway 611 (east of Ponoka).

The group addresses key issues related to increased energy development in the area. Meetings are the first Thursday of each month and topics include water well protection, coal bed methane development, individual company development plans and concerns associated with oil and gas activity. The group also covers issues such as water use and other agricultural activities affecting area residents and the environment.

The group has recently released a Best Management Practices Handbook. This handbook will continuously be added to, updated and improved as knowledge is gained. Consensus based decision-making is used with input from all stakeholders. The group hopes to track how the use of Best Management Practices can ensure sound environmental management and development.The group also provides educational sessions and hosts information sessions. All participants are welcome whether they live within the Calumet area or not.

Regular meetings: 1st Thursday of each month, Calumet Hall

Contact: lwalton@xplornet.com
Contact: Kenneth.Dahl@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.synergyalberta.ca/groups/calumet.html

Chestermere Lake Working Group

The Chestermere Lake Working Group was initiated by the City of Calgary to:

• Evaluate management options for dealing with water quality problems at Chestermere Lake; and,
• Recommend a plan of action.

The Chestermere Lake Working Group is comprised of Alberta Environment, the City of Calgary, the MD of Rocky View, the Town of Chestermere and the Western Irrigation District.

The key water quality problems in Chestermere Lake have included extensive growth of aquatic plants and sediment infilling due to urban run-off.

Future work will include efforts to:

• Assess current and future nutrient and sediment loadings;
• Determine loadings targets; and
• Evaluate potential sites and costs for a settling basin.

If you would like more information, please contact Al Sosiak.

Contact: Al.Sosiak@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Clean Air Strategic Alliance

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance is a non-profit association composed of diverse stakeholders from three sectors – government, industry and non-government organizations such as health and environmental groups. All Clean Air Strategic Alliance groups and teams, including the board of directors, make decisions and recommendations by consensus. It is a stakeholder partnership that has been given shared responsibility by its members, including the government of Alberta, for strategic planning, organizing and coordinating, and evaluation of air quality in Alberta. The key projects currently on-going at the Clean Air Strategic Alliance are:

• Human and Animal Health
• Confined Feeding Operation
• Vehicle Emissions
• Flaring and Venting
• Electricity Efficiency and Conservation
• Renewable and Alternative Energy
• Indoor Air Quality
• Particulate Matter and Ozone
• Ambient Air Quality Monitoring
• Science Symposium on Nitrogen Oxides

Contact: Raymond.Wong@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.casahome.org

Clean Air Strategic Alliance – Electricity Project Team

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance Electricity Project Team was tasked with developing a comprehensive management plan for air emissions associated with Alberta’s electricity sector. Clean Air Strategic Alliance recommendations were finalized and provided to government..The NOx and SOx Emissions Trading program was brought forward as a Clean Air Strategic Alliance recommendation and has been implemented by the Government of Alberta. The greenhouse gas management framework is evaluating options for electricity companies to manage their greenhouse gas emissions. Recommendations from this committee will be presented to Alberta Environment for consideration and implementation.

Contact: Keith.Denman@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: March 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: September 2003

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/air/OGS/electricity.html

Climate Change Action Plan – Albertans and Climate Change: Taking Action

Alberta’s Climate Change Action Plan outlines Alberta’s approach for addressing climate change. It identifies five key areas for consultation including: government leadership, energy conservation, carbon management, technology and innovation, renewable and alternative energy, enhancing carbon sinks, and adaptation. This strategy came in to effect in October 2002 and was superseded by Albertans & Climate Change: Meeting the Challenge.

Contact: Brian.Waddell@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Summer 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Fall 2002

Climate Change Legislation-Specified Gas Emitters Regulation

The Alberta government, in consultation with stakeholders has developed the Climate Change and Emissions Management Act to manage greenhouse gas emissions in Alberta. The Act was passed in 2003. The Specified Gas Emitters Regulations supports action on climate change and builds on the Specified Gas Emitters Regulation passed in 2004.

• Currently, the Specified Gas Emitters Regulation is being developed, which will set emissions intensity limits for large industrial emitters in Alberta.

Contact: Robert.Savage@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2005
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.qp.gov.ab.ca/documents/Acts/C16P7.cfm?f
rm_isbn=077974697X

Climate Change Legislation-Specified Gas Reporting Regulation

Alberta government, in consultation with stakeholders has developed the Climate Change and Emissions Management Act to manage greenhouse gas emissions in Alberta. The Act was passed in 2003. The Specified Gas Reporting Regulation has been developed under this Act and supports ongoing work on the Specified Gas Emitters Regulation that is currently being prepared.

• The Specified Gas Reporting Regulation requires all companies who emit more than 100kt of greenhouse gases annually to report their emissions. This regulation was adopted in 2004. Results for the 2004 reporting year are available at: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/air/EMR/sgreporting.html

Contact: Robert.Savage@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2003
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2004

Link: http://www.qp.gov.ab.ca/documents/Acts/C16P7.cfm?f
rm_isbn=077974697X

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/air/EMR/sgreporting.html

Cold Lake Beaver River Basin Water Management Plan Update

This planning exercise, currently nearing completion, has been undertaken to update the existing 1985 plan in order to reflect current and projected water uses within the basin while balancing environmental and socio-economic considerations. The updated plan will integrate new information related to the basin’s water resources and be aligned with recent provincial water management initiatives. The updated plan has been drafted in partnership with Lakeland Industry and Community Association and the regional Basin Advisory Committee. Public consultation is integral to the development of the plan and has included open house events to review the Terms of Reference, numerous multi-stakeholder meetings, a stakeholder planning workshop and open houses to review the draft plan.

Contact: Joe.Prusak@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/water/Management/clbr

Construction, Renovation and Demolition Materials: Opportunities for Waste Reduction and Diversion

An advisory committee on reducing construction and demolition waste developed a background report and proposal of key elements for an Alberta-made solution for diverting construction and demolition material from landfill. Next steps will be to release the report, and contact a broader range of stakeholders and the general public to request their input on the proposal.

Contact: Judy.Morris@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: To be announced
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Contaminated Sites Management Systems Project

This project includes the petroleum storage tank program described below, remediation certificates, and development of new guidance documents.

Early in 2009, Alberta Environment will introduce remediation certificates for petroleum storage tank sites, which will be issued for specific areas, depths and substances. The remediation certificate is intended to provide an incentive to remediate contaminated petroleum storage tank sites by providing regulatory closure of liability after ten years. Later in 2009, remediation certificates will be issued for upstream oil and gas sites.

The Contaminated Sites Stakeholder Advisory Committee was consulted on the remediation certificate framework.

Alberta Environment is developing two new guidance documents for assessing sites for contamination. The Alberta Environmental Site Assessment Guidelines (2008 draft) and Soil Monitoring Directive (2008 draft) were posted for public consultation in mid-2008.  Each document provides information on assessing sites for soil and groundwater contamination, and the Soil Monitoring Directive was developed for facilities with an operating approval from Alberta Environment.  Alberta Environment appreciates all the feedback and is now reviewing the comments received.

Contact: Darlene.Howat@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://environment.alberta.ca/777.html

Contaminated Sites Stakeholder Advisory Committee

In 2003, the Contaminated Sites Stakeholder Advisory Committee was formed to provide recommendations on the regulations for contaminated sites to improve the likelihood that contaminated sites would be remediated and returned to productive use, where possible. The multi-stakeholder committee included members representing industry, environmental non-governmental organizations, landowners, municipalities, real estate agents, bankers, and other government departments.

The Committee’s Recommendations to the Honourable Lorne Taylor, Minister of the Environment, Interim Report, (March 2004) contained recommendations on legislative amendments, allocation of liability to person(s) responsible and liability closure on remediated sites. In June 2005, the Committee’s second report was completed, Recommendations to the Honourable Guy Boutilier, Minister of the Environment, which included more specific direction on amendments to the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act to improve the management of contaminated sites.

The Committee’s recommendations have lead to amendments of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act in spring 2006 and the remediation certificate program, planned for October 1, 2006.

Contact: Darlene.Howat@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: September 2003
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 2005

Crown Managers Partnership

The Crown Managers Partnership is a trans-boundary regional agency partnership focused on shared, place-based environmental outcomes. The partnership is comprised of federal, state, provincial and First Nations land and resource management agencies in Alberta, Montana and B.C.

The Crown Managers Partnership objectives are to:

• Build understanding and awareness of the ecological health of the Crown of the Continent ecosystem;
• Address increasing human activity and pressures on environmental resources; and,
• Create effective collaboration among multiple agencies.

The Crown Managers Partnership has adopted a strategic priority, the “Managing for Ecological Health" project. The project is intended to define an appropriate level of environmental quality for the Crown of the Continent ecosystem assured by the management actions of multiple agencies each exercising their own jurisdiction with common goals in mind. The project is proceeding through various logical steps:

• Defining what health means in the Crown context
• Describing the current state of the Crown
• Understanding the trajectories that have taken the region to this point and the likely future trajectories and their environmental implications
• Identifying with the broader community and stakeholders the desired state for the Crown.
• Collaborative and adaptive environmental and natural resource management to achieve the desired state.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Ian Dyson.

Contact: Ian.Dyson@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2001
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.rockies.ca/cmp/

Cumulative Environmental Management Association

The Cumulative Environmental Management Association is a multi-stakeholder initiative in northeast Alberta working to implement the Regional Sustainable Development Strategy to manage the cumulative environmental impacts of oil sands development in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Technical and scientific work is completed through five working groups and committees including the NoxSO² Management Working Group, the Surface Water Working Group, and the Reclamation Working Group.

Contact: Randall.Barrett@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.cemaonline.ca/

Drainage Council

The Drainage Council is an administrative body formed to provide advice and support to the nine Alberta drainage districts formed under the Drainage Districts Act. Drainage districts are farmer-led cooperative groups that work to improve agricultural water management within a specific area of the province. Districts are formed by Order-in-Council or Ministerial Order at the request of local landowners. Once formed, the district has the power to set and collect taxes, to construct water management works and to enact bylaws. The first drainage district was formed in 1919 in the Holden area and the most recent in 1954 near New Sarepta (Big Hay Lake DD).

Drainage Council has completed a review of Drainage District policy and legislation to ensure consistency of policy throughout provincial departments. The review provided an opportunity for stakeholders, local authorities and government departments to comment on the current legislation and recommend ways to update policy to meet the Water for Life strategy. Alberta Environment is now considering the information in the review report and discussing it with Drainage Council.

Drainage Council consists of three Councillors and one provincial representative appointed by the Minister of Environment. The three Councillors serve for a three years period and Council may hear ratepayer appeals, direct drainage district boards of trustees in certain administrative actions and can make recommendations to the Minister.

Contact: Al.Corbett@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Elbow River Watershed Partnership

The Elbow River Watershed Partnership was initiated in 2002 to provide recommendations for the protection, restoration, and maintenance of the Elbow River watershed. The Elbow River Watershed Partnership supports and encourages all stakeholders in the watershed to protect and enhance water quality and quantity.

The goals of the Elbow River Watershed Partnership are to:

• Encourage individuals and communities to take responsibility to protect and enhance water quality and quantity in the Elbow River watershed;
• Encourage the use of new technologies for water conservation;
• Encourage best water management and land use practices;
• Encourage cooperation, coordination and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders;
• Minimize the negative impacts of land uses on water quality and quantity; and,
• Increase awareness and understanding of the watershed.

Currently, the Elbow River Watershed Partnership is determining linkages with the Bow River Basin Council and its watershed management planning activities and has completed a draft Terms of Reference for an Elbow River Watershed Management Plan. Work will continue towards the development of the plan and the implementation of the annual operational plan.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Monique Dietrich.

Contact: Monique.Dietrich@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.erwp.org/index.html

Environment Week

Environment Week has been celebrating Alberta's environment since 1989. It is a great time to learn what Albertans can do to help preserve and protect our environment. Participating in local events is a great way to enjoy the province's natural history and learn new things that we can all do for the environment.

Alberta Environment undertakes a variety of education and outreach activities to promote the environment. The interests of local communities, the annual theme for Environment Week and the interests of partners drive activities, which include community events such as fairs and tours, contests, promotions on radio, newspaper, television and websites and the Environment Week poster.

Alberta Environment is available to provide advice to community groups and municipalities interested in developing their own Environment Week programs.

Contact: env.education@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Annually, Environment Week is the first full week of June.
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://environment.gov.ab.ca/edu/eweek/

EnviroVista Program

The EnviroVista Program recognizes and encourages corporate efforts to voluntarily exceed regulatory environmental requirements under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and the Water Act. The program is facility-based and provides recognition to environmental leaders from Alberta facilities that meet restrictive participation criteria.

Facilities operating at the EnviroVista ‘Leader’ level require a five-year history of sound compliance, sound emissions performance and a comprehensive environmental management system.

The EnviroVista ‘Champion’ level provides the same recognition as the ‘Leader’ level and in addition it provides access to a broader suite of benefits and incentives, including a streamlined Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act approval. Champion facilities will commit to enhanced performance through a Stewardship Agreement.

The EnviroVista Program is open to new applicants throughout the year with special recognition during Environment Week (June) and Waste reduction Week (October).

Contact: EnviroVista@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: May 10, 2005
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://environment.alberta.ca/867.html

Fort Air Partnership

Fort Air Partnership (FAP) was formed to address a need for local solutions to local air quality issues. FAP is a community driven multi-stakeholder organization with a mandate “to generate and provide comprehensive air quality information to the public, industry and government.”

FAP currently monitors air quality within a 4,500 square kilometer boundary located north east of Edmonton. It monitors air quality and reports air quality data on behalf of industry, Alberta Environment and Environment Canada.

In addition to monitoring, FAP is also engaged in informing the community and has participated in many provincial and federal initiatives related to air quality, including the development of an ozone management plan in 2008.

Contact: Richard.Chabaylo@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 1997
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.fortair.org/

Groundwater and Coalbed Methane

In June 2006, 13 public information sessions took place across central and southern Alberta to address landowner concerns about coalbed methane development affecting groundwater supplies. These sessions included displays and presentations by Alberta Environment, industry, other government agencies, and those representing landowner interests. The presentations were followed by a question and answer session.

Contact: Shelleen.Lakusta@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 7, 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Additional information sessions as needed

Link: http://www.waterforlife.gov.ab.ca/coal/index.html

Groundwater Risk Assessment for Alberta

Alberta Environment initiated the Groundwater Risk Assessment project in September 2006. This project will ensure that areas and issues of greatest risk to Alberta's natural groundwater resources are taken into account as development activities take place across the province.

Alberta Environment will work directly with groundwater experts to get input on the current, short-term, and long-term risks to groundwater across the province. Alberta Environment will also host two workshops to gather input from First Nations and Métis groups in late November. The information will be compiled by PricewaterhouseCoopers into a comprehensive report and reviewed by a group of groundwater experts and Alberta Environment staff. The Groundwater Risk Assessment project will be completed in March 2007 and will assist Alberta Environment in developing priority actions for groundwater in the coming 2007-2008 business plan.

Contact: David.McKenna@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Not applicable
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Not applicable

Highwood Water Management Plan, Phase 1 Public Advisory Committee

The Phase 1 Public Advisory Committee was formed at the direction of the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB). The Public Advisory Committee was tasked with providing input to a revised plan for diversion of water from the Highwood River to the Little Bow River and Mosquito Creek. The diverted water would be used in the Little Bow project comprising the new Twin Valley Reservoir and water storage in Clear Lake.

The Public Advisory Committee completed its recommendations in June 2006. The recommendations and a proposed diversion plan were submitted to the Natural Resources Conservation Board for review and final project approval. On April 14, 2008, the Natural Resources Conservation Board approved the diversion plan.

In a separate but closely related initiative, Alberta Environment translated several of the Public Advisory Committee’s recommendations (those concerning broader water management policy) into the form of a statutory water management plan. Following a review by the the Public Advisory Committee management committee (the “Public Advisory Committee Core Group”) Alberta Environment finalized the plan in June 2008.

There have been discussions with the Public Advisory Committee Core Group about future planning in the Highwood basin. One priority is to expand the water management plan to include the Sheep River basin. This would have the purpose of providing direction for water use and aquatic environment protection in that basin and the lower Highwood River downstream of its confluence with the Sheep. Monitoring the performance of the diversion plan is also a priority.

Watershed management planning in the Highwood basin (including the Sheep sub-basin) will need to be coordinated with planning currently taking place for the Bow River basin as a whole, under the leadership of the Bow River Basin Council. Coordination will also be required with the Oldman Watershed Council concerning the Little Bow River watershed.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Andrea Czarnecki.

Contact: Andrea.Czarnecki@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2001
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Integrated Land Management Program

The Integrated Land Management Project was focused on identifying the tools required by the Integrated Land Management Program to manage, reduce and reclaim industrial, recreational and other footprints on public land, while providing appropriate levels of access.
The Integrated Land Management Project resulted in recommendations around six deliverables, identified in the Integrated Land Management Project charter:

• Principles: A set of integrated land management process principles
• Protocols: An integrated framework of public land management planning and decision-making protocols
• Incentives: Integration and collaboration incentives, and requirements through legislation
• Stewardship: Education and stewardship programming and capacity-building mechanisms
• Performance Measures: Monitoring and compliance mechanisms and performance measures
• Governance: A governance structure

As part of the Integrated Land Management Project process, stakeholders had an opportunity over 18 months to participate through working groups set up to develop recommendations around the deliverables, or as reviewers of recommendations.

The Integrated Land Management Program is recognized as a significant implementation mechanism of the Land-use Framework (released December 3, 2008). The Integrated Land Management Program will be influenced by, and provide valuable input to, watershed planning, forest management planning, FireSmart community planning, and species at risk recovery planning, reclamation initiatives and other provincial government planning initiatives.

ILM Project Contact: Aniko.Parnell@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: December 3, 2008
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.srd.alberta.ca/ilm

Lakeland Industry and Community Association

Formed in 2000, the Lakeland Industry and Community Association is a community based not-for-profit association in the Elk Point - Bonnyville - Cold Lake area. The association seeks to provide Lakeland area residents with a timely response to concerns and to ensure that growing development is conducted in a responsible manner. In December 2005, the Lakeland Industry and Community Association became the seventh Airshed Management Zone in the province.

Contact: Nadine.Blaney@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.lica.ca/

LakeWatch Program

The LakeWatch Program is a partnership among the Alberta Lake Management Society, Alberta Environment, and stewardship groups to engage Albertans in water-quality monitoring and education. The LakeWatch program allows volunteers and trained sampling staff to work together at sampling lakes in Alberta. The information gathered has been instrumental in supporting watershed groups in “State of the Watershed” reporting and watershed management planning.

Contact: Theo.Charette@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.alms.ca

Land Trust Leadership

The Land Trust Leadership Project sought to develop or improve province wide tools to encourage the use of conservation easements as part of the voluntary conservation of private lands. Targeted stakeholder conversations with land trust organizations and others with expertise using easements took place over the summer of 2006. A recommendations report was completed in August 2006.

Acting on several of the recommendations, on November 22, 2006, Alberta Environment announced their support for the Alberta Land Trust Alliance, including $300,000 to get the organization up-and-running.

Contact: Avelyn.Nicol@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: August 2006

Lesser Slave Basins Water Management Plan

A water management plan is under development for the Lesser Slave Lake and Lesser Slave River basins in conjunction with the Lesser Slave Lake Watershed Committee. Phase 1 is addressing issues relating to the Lesser Slave River, including development of Water Conservation Objectives for the river. Water Conservation Objectives identify the quality and quantity of water to be left in the river for various needs such as protection of the aquatic environment, fish, recreation, transportation and waste assimilation. Phase 2 of the plan is underway, and will address water management issues relating to Lesser Slave Lake, including water quality, shoreline development, sedimentation and groundwater.

Contact: Rod.Burr@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: November 1999
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/water/regions/lsb/index.
html

Milk River Watershed Council Canada

The Milk River Watershed Council Canada is a registered, non-profit society and Watershed Planning and Advisory Council under Alberta’s Water for Life Strategy. The Milk River Watershed Council Canada’s vision is: “a watershed where community well being is supported by a vibrant economy and sustained by a healthy environment that will endure as our legacy for future generations”.

The goals of the Milk River Watershed Council Canada are to:

• Foster the sustainable use and integrated management of land and water resources;
• Monitor the quality of water in the Milk River and its tributaries, and promote quality domestic water supplies;
• Increase knowledge and awareness of conservation initiatives in the watershed and facilitate partnerships that will conserve wildlife and plant species diversity;
• Support and initiate programs that protect, maintain and improve riparian areas.
• Increase community awareness of the watershed;
• Maintain open and accurate dialogue between the Milk River Watershed Council Canada and the U.S. Milk River International Alliance; and,
• Pursue issues that will encourage economic development in the watershed.

The Milk River Watershed Council Canada is currently preparing a State of the Watershed report, which will lead into a watershed management planning initiative.

If you have comments or wish to get involved, please contact Sandi Riemersma, Project Coordinator for the Milk River Watershed Council Canada.

Contact: sandi@milkriverwatershedcouncil.ca
Contact: Terrence.Lazarus@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2005
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.milkriverwatershedcouncil.ca

Moose Lake Watershed Management Plan

Following extensive public and stakeholder consultations, the Moose Lake Watershed Management Plan is being implemented by the Municipal District of Bonnyville.  The management plan ensures the long-term sustainability of the area’s watershed by addressing several key issues: declining lake levels, frequent algal blooms and potential environmental degradation resulting from increased development around the lakeshore. 

Specific goals for the plan include:

• Improved water quality in the Moose Lake Watershed to reflect pre-development conditions;
• Improved wildlife and fish habitats in conjunction with a healthier overall aquatic environment;
• The incorporation of watershed management plan recommendations into the local municipal land-use plans, which include compliance guidelines and best management practices, and;
• Increased public awareness of, and engagement with, land stewardship activities.

Contact: kkinch@md.bonnyville.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: August 16, 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance

The North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance is a non-profit society whose purpose is to protect and improve water quality and ecosystem functioning in the North Saskatchewan Watershed within Alberta. The North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance is also recognized as a Watershed Planning and Advisory Council under the Water For Life Strategy and is currently developing an Integrated Watershed Management Plan. The goal of the Integrated Watershed Management Plan is to provide a framework to protect, maintain and restore a healthy, natural watershed system where economic and social needs will be in balance with the ecological needs of the watershed. The plan will be prepared in consultation with North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance members and stakeholders and will ensure that stakeholders are provided the opportunity to form and participate in the planning process through Regional Advisory Committees, multi-stakeholder groups that will provide advice and direction to the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance in the preparation and implementation of the Integrated Watershed Management Plan. Currently the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance is seeking applicants to participate in the Regional Advisory Committees.

Contact: Andrew.Schoepf@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.nswa.ab.ca/

Northern East Slopes Sustainable Resource and Environmental Management Strategy

The Regional Steering Group for the Northern East Slopes Sustainable Resource and Environmental Management Strategy provided recommendations to Alberta Environment in May 2003 for balancing economic, environmental and community values in the sustainable management of resources and the environment.

Contact: Andrew.Schoepf@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2000
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2003

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/regions/nes/strategy.htm
l

Nose Creek Watershed Partnership

The Nose Creek Watershed Partnership was initiated in 1998 to protect riparian areas and improve water quality in the Nose and west Nose Creeks. All partners involved work together to achieve these important objectives.

The Nose Creek improvement strategy involves learning about the quality of water throughout the watershed, and identifying sources of contamination and initiating clean-up efforts and stewardship measures with all stakeholders. The Nose Creek Watershed Water Management Plan has now been adopted by the Municipal Councils of Calgary, Airdrie and the Municipal District of Rocky View to be used as a guidance document and planning tool.

Current activities of the Nose Creek Watershed Partnership include:

• Implementing the Nose Creek Watershed Water Management Plan,
• Bioengineering projects, tree plantings, clean-up events and educational demonstrations,
• Workshops on Low Impact Development Practices towards reducing the impacts of storm water on the creek.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Mr. Jan Simonson.

Contact: Jan.Simonson@gov.ab.ca
Contact: erin@nosecreekpartnership.com

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 1998
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.nosecreekpartnership.com/index.html

NOx and SOx Emissions Trading

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance Electricity Project Team put forward a series of recommendations to Alberta Environment to manage NOx and SOx emissions in Alberta. To implement these recommendations, Alberta Environment issued the Air Emission Standard For Electricity Generators in December 2005 and Cabinet approved the Emission Trading Regulation in February 2006. Alberta Environment is currently working with industry to implement the Standard and Regulation.

Contact: Andy.Ridge@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Spring 2005
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Spring 2005

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/air/OGS/managingemission
s.html

Oil Sands Consultation

In 2006 and 2007, the Oil Sands Multi-stakeholder Committee led a public consultation on the development of Alberta’s oil sands. A subcommittee was put in place to conduct public consultation. Public consultation information received by the subcommittee was reported back to the Oil Sands Multi-stakeholder Committee. The Oil Sands Multi-stakeholder Committee completed its work on June 30, 2007 with a final report to the Ministers of Energy, Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. The final report from the Oil Sands Multi-stakeholder Committee, as well as the final report from the Oil Sands Aboriginal Consultation, can be found on the link below.

Contact: Ernie.Hui@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: September 13, 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October 4, 2006

Link: http://www.oilsandsconsultations.gov.ab.ca

Oldman Watershed Council

The Oldman Watershed Council is a not-for-profit organization that is working in partnership with communities and residents to improve the Oldman River watershed. In 2004, the Oldman Watershed Council was officially recognized by the provincial government as a Watershed Planning and Advisory Council as identified under Alberta’s Water for Life Strategy. The Provincial Government is one of many partners that form the Oldman Watershed Council.

All residents in the basin share their concern about the health of their watershed and are encouraged to discuss issues and share their input on what they would like to see happen in order to improve the watershed. This kind of participation allows residents to share and endorse, as well as take pride and ownership in creating a healthy functioning watershed. The goals of the Oldman Watershed Council are:

• We understand our watershed;
• Residents are well informed and actively engaged;
• Basin stakeholders have defined the desired outcomes for the Oldman Watershed that will form the basis for the Integrated Watershed Management Plan;
• The Oldman Watershed Council and stakeholders put into action the capacity and commitment to achieve defined outcomes; and,
• Practices that are beneficial to the health and function of the watershed are adopted.

The Oldman Watershed Council is currently working on a State of the Watershed report, which will lead into a watershed management planning initiative.

If you have comments or wish to get involved, please contact Stephanie Palechek, Executive Director of the Oldman Watershed Council.

Contact: stephanie@oldmanbasin.org
Contact: Cheryl.Dash@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2004
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.oldmanbasin.org/

Paint Stewardship Program

In 2008 Alberta launched the paint and paint container recycling program to divert waste paint from landfills. Stakeholder and public consultation was held prior to the launch of the program.

Contact: Brenna.McLennan@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: March 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: April 2007

Parkland Airshed Management Zone

This multi-stakeholder, non-profit society was established in 1997 to identify air quality concerns within the zone and implement management strategies to address those concerns. By following the Clean Air Strategic Alliance model of consensus decision-making, the Parkland Airshed Management Zone provides a forum for concerned stakeholders to meet, discuss and resolve their concerns in a productive and collaborative manner.

Contact: Greg.Nelson@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.pamz.org/

Peace AirShed Zone Association

The Peace AirShed Zone Association is a multi-stakeholder non-profit organization consisting of industry, local government, environmental organizations, Alberta Environment, Alberta Energy & Utilities Board, the local health authority, and members of the public. Formed in March 1999 in response to concerns over air quality, the Peace AirShed Zone Association operates an air quality-monitoring network in the Grande Prairie area. The focus of the Peace AirShed Zone Association is to monitor ambient air quality and work towards maintaining or improving air quality. For more information on the Peace AirShed Zone Association and its activities please go to the link below.

Contact: Jennifer.Keturakis@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.pasza.ca/

Policy Paper on Proposed Regulatory Framework for Managing Environmental Cumulative Effects

The Minister of Environment was mandated with developing a new environment and resource management regulatory framework. Its purpose was to enable sustainable development in Alberta by addressing the cumulative effects of development on the environment. In response, Alberta Environment, along with six other departments, drafted a policy paper to stimulate discussion on the proposed framework.

Consultation closed on November 30, 2007. Results will be compiled and posted at the link below.

Contact: Dave.Belyea@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October 2, 2007
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: November 30, 2007

Link: http://www.environment.alberta.ca/1931.html

Prairie Conservation Forum

The Prairie Conservation Forum is a large voluntary coalition of organizations interested in the conservation of native prairie and parkland environments in Alberta. The Prairie Conservation Forum, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2009, is focused on the stewardship of native biodiversity in prairie and parkland Alberta through the current Alberta Prairie Conservation Action Plan (2006-2010).

The goals of the Prairie Conservation Forum include:

• Research: enhance the information base for Alberta’s native prairie and parkland landscapes;
• Stewardship: conserve Alberta’s native prairie and landscapes; and,
• Education: increase awareness of the values and importance of Alberta’s native prairie and parkland ecosystems.

The Prairie Conservation Forum has pioneered environmental partnerships, environmental cumulative effects and environmental inventories. It is currently aligning its efforts to provide decision support tools and processes in support of defining biodiversity outcomes nested within the framework of the Land Use Framework.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Cheryl Dash.

Contact: Cheryl.Dash@gov.ab.ca
Contact: info@albertapcf.org

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 1989
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.albertapcf.org

Red Deer River Watershed Alliance

The Red Deer River Watershed Alliance is an inclusive, collaborative partnership that promotes a healthy watershed to ensure a legacy of ecological integrity and economic sustainability. An alliance of interested stakeholders working together is seen as an effective way to promote the long-term health of the Red Deer River watershed.

Contact: Greg.Nelson@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.rdrwa.ca/

Regional Aquatics Monitoring Program

Initiated in 1997, the Regional Aquatics Monitoring Program is a joint environmental monitoring program that assesses the health of rivers and lakes in the oil sands region of northeastern Alberta. The program is designed to identify and address potential impacts of oil sands development and is frequently adjusted to reflect monitoring results, technological advances and community concerns. Members include representatives from the various levels of government, industry, and aboriginal and NGO groups.

Contact: Preston.McEachern@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.ramp-alberta.org/

Riparian Land Conservation and Management Project

Riparian land is the area adjacent to water bodies where the vegetation and soils are strongly influenced by water, both on the surface and below the ground. Healthy intact riparian lands deliver broad benefits to society, including: cleaner water due to decreased erosion and filtering; flood protection; maintenance of terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity and enhanced aesthetic and recreational opportunities. A variety of municipal governments and stewardship organizations have initiatives underway to conserve, manage and restore riparian land.

The goals of this project are to:

• Develop provincial outcomes (goals) for riparian land conservation and management;
• Develop a riparian management framework for different natural regions and watersheds;
• Develop appropriate riparian monitoring tools; and,
• Target education and outreach activities to help private landowners, developers, communities and politicians understand the value of riparian lands.

If you would like more information or wish to be involved, please contact Heather Sinton.

Contact: Janet.McLean@gov.ab.ca
Contact: Heather.Sinton@gov.ab.ca
Contact: Jan.Simonson@gov.ab.ca
Contact: Kim.Westcott@gov.ab.ca;

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2005
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Skeleton Lake Watershed Management Plan

A community-led watershed management plan is under development for Skeleton Lake. Alberta Environment has recently approved the terms of reference for this plan. The key issues addressed in this plan include the declining lake levels, protection of aquatic resources and land use changes in the watershed resulting from increased development around the lakeshore. These concerns led to the formation of the Skeleton Lake Stewardship Association with a goal to protect, restore and enhance the aquatic eco-system of Skeleton Lake. For more information on the Skeleton Lake Stewardship Association and its activities, please go to the link below.

The four municipalities in the area, the County of Athabasca, Village of Boyle and the summer villages of Bondiss and Meewatha Beach, have agreed to the Skeleton Lake Stewardship Association taking the lead role in developing a watershed management plan for Skeleton lake. The roles of Alberta Environment in this process are to review and approve the Terms of Reference (which will outline the stakeholder and public consultation activities during the planning process); provide technical information; and to approve a final plan.

The following public/stakeholder involvement activities have occurred:

• Town hall meeting in Edmonton - April 19, 2005
• Town hall meeting in Boyle – April 21, 2005
• Town hall meeting in Edmonton – April 26, 2005
• Town hall meeting in Boyle – May 27, 2006
• Public consultation to review the terms of reference – August 26, 2006
• Public consultation to review the State of the Watershed Report - May 30, 2007 in Edmonton and June 9, 2007 in Boyle

There will be further public consultation on the draft watershed management plan. The dates for these meetings have not been set.

Contact: Abdi.Siad-Omar@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.skeletonlake.com

South East Alberta Watershed Alliance

The South East Alberta Watershed Alliance is a Watershed Planning and Advisory Council under Alberta’s Water for Life Strategy. Formed by stakeholders in 2007, the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance’s mission is to: provide a conduit to bring diverse partners together to advocate for the sustainable management of the South Saskatchewan River watershed; and to plan for the efficient, responsible use and ensure the integrity of our watershed for current and future generations.

The goals of the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance are to:

• Improve water quality and quantity, and encourage vibrant natural habitats and ecosystems.
• Inform, educate and engage residents and other stakeholders with respect to watershed issues.
• Provide a forum as an opportunity for positive, informative and enjoyable interaction between stakeholders.
• Elicit relevant science and technology to foster a healthy, sustainable watershed.
• Initiate and maintain a current State of the Watershed report.
• Create an integrated Watershed Management Plan to address issues and desired outcomes.
• Promote, coordinate and support action to implement the Watershed Management Plan.
• Evaluate our actions to ensure they achieve defined outcomes.
• Provide liaison and cooperative action with the Alberta Water Council, other Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils, and Watershed Stewardship Groups.

The South East Alberta Watershed Alliance is currently completing phase one of its State of the Watershed report. The report will be interactive and available online by 2010. Following the State of the Watershed report, the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance will begin preparing a Watershed Management Plan for the main stem of the South Saskatchewan River.

If you have comments or wish to get involved, please contact Bob Philips, Executive Director for the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance.

Contact: Audrey.Goodwin@gov.ab.ca
Contact: Bob@seawa.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2007
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing

Link: http://www.seawa.ca

Sustainable Resource Environmental Management Deputy Ministers and Chair of Energy Utility Board meet Alberta Environment Network

The three Deputy Ministers from Sustainable Resource Environmental Management (Alberta Environment, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development and Alberta Energy) and the chair of the Energy Utility Board, Neil McCrank, will be meeting with the Alberta Environment Network (a non-governmental organization) on November 14th, 2006. They will discuss numerous environmental issues over the course of the evening concerning environmental issues but the main purpose is to build on the relationships between the affiliated organizations.

Contact: Dave.Belyea@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: November 14, 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.srem.gov.ab.ca/

The Oil and Gas Remediation and Reclamation Advisory Committee

In June 2003, the Oil and Gas Remediation and Reclamation Advisory Committee was formed to review and provide recommendations to the Minister of the Environment on implementation of the revised program for reclamation certification of upstream oil and gas sites. The multi-stakeholder committee consisted of representatives from industry, landowner groups, and other government departments. Ten recommendations were provided to Alberta Environment’s Executive including recommendations on reclamation certificate application fees, use of stratified remediation, and competencies of professionals assessing reclamation and remediation work.

Since the Recommendations for Minister report was forwarded to Alberta Environment’s Executive in November 2004, many of the recommendations have been implemented or are planned for implementation.

Contact: Darlene.Howat@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 2003
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: November 2004

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/protenf/landrec/upstream
/index.html

Upstream Oil & Gas Policy Integration Initiative

The Upstream Oil and Gas Policy Integration project is a joint initiative by Alberta Environment, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, Alberta Energy and the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board to develop recommendations for an integrated policy framework and an integrated delivery approach for the upstream oil and gas industry sector. This will lead to a consistent approach to managing upstream oil and gas development activities, with clear and consistent information and expectations for government, industry and the public.

Contact: Stephen.Maunder@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: To be announced
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.srem.gov.ab.ca/oil_and_gas.html

Vermilion River Water Management Operations Advisory Committee

The Vermilion River Water Management Operations Advisory Committee was appointed by Alberta Environment in 2001 to address local water management issues in the Vermilion River. The river has a number of water management structures owned by Alberta Environment (Morecambe Structure, Vermilion Dam, Watt Lake and Bens Lake outlet weirs) that provide some control of flow in the river between Vegreville and the town of Vermilion. After minor flooding in 1997, local stakeholders met and recommended to the Minister that a local advisory group be formed to review ongoing operations and maintenance of the projects and to provide advice on the future management issues. The committee was formed with representation of all local rural authorities, NGOs and government departments.

The committee has approved a water management operations plan for the structures and is currently actively participating with other stakeholder groups pursuing watershed planning and management initiatives. Other local groups include the North East Alberta Water Management Coalition, the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance and the Vermilion River Watershed Initiative.

Contact: Al.Corbett@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.vroac.ca/

Wabamun Watershed Management Council

The Wabamun Watershed Management Council (formerly Lake Wabamun Citizens’ Panel) was first proposed by Dr. David Schindler in his report titled “Lake Wabamun: A Review of Scientific Studies and Environmental Impacts,” as a forum for communication among stakeholders in the community and to provide guidance in the protection of the lake’s aquatic health. After extensive public consultation for this initiative, the first meeting of the group occurred on October 11, 2006. The Council has been meeting on the second Wednesday of each month.

Contact: Glenn.Gustafson@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.wwmc.ca

Waste Reduction Week

Canadians celebrate Waste Reduction Week during the third week of October each year. Municipalities, schools and businesses are invited to spread waste reduction messages and engage citizens in activities that help reduce waste and divert it from landfills. Participate in local Waste Reduction Week events to discover the many ways you can reduce waste at home, at your workplace and in your community. The choices you make - big and small - really do make a difference. It's Too Good to Waste!

Alberta Environment undertakes a variety of education and outreach activities to promote the environment. The interests of local communities, the theme of the special week and the interests of partners largely drive activities. Activities include: community events (e.g., tours, fairs), contests, promotions on radio, newspaper, television and websites and a promotional poster.

Alberta Environment is available to provide advice to community groups and municipalities interested in developing their own Waste Reduction Week programs.

Contact: env.education@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Annually, third week of October
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.recycle.ab.ca

Waste Strategy

The Waste Management Stakeholder Group was formed in late 2003 to improve waste management in Alberta, integrating discussions across sectors: municipal, hazardous waste, oilfield, agriculture, and forestry. A strategy document entitled “Too Good to Waste” has been drafted and reviewed by the Waste Management Stakeholder Group. Work is being undertaken by Alberta Environment to support and enable action commitments prior to release.

Summer/Fall 2006

• Consultation through the Waste Management Stakeholder Group regarding management of contaminated soil and the land application or organics (complementing work on contaminated site remediation)

Fall/Winter 2006/2007

• Waste harmonization discussions with the Energy Utility Board and interested stakeholders within the Waste Management Stakeholder Group.
• Waste harmonization discussions with British Columbia and interested stakeholders within the Waste Management Stakeholder Group.

Spring 2007

• Initiate revisions to the Waste Control Regulation and the Alberta User Guide for Waste Managers in accordance with Too Good to Waste and in consultation with the Waste Management Stakeholder Group.
• Develop and implement a broader stakeholder consultation plan on the regulation and guide based on discussions with the Waste Management Stakeholder Group.

Contact: Janet.McLean@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: November 2003
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: December 2007

Water For Life: Alberta’s Strategy for Sustainability Consultation

The third stage in the strategy’s consultation process was a Minister’s Forum on Water. Held in June 2002, the forum involved 108 invited Albertans and experts who reviewed input from the public outreach and consultation process and discussed next steps and solutions.

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 6, 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: June 7, 2002

Link: http://www.waterforlife.gov.ab.ca/docs/summary_rep
ort.pdf

Water For Life: Alberta’s Strategy for Sustainability Consultation

In 2002, the Government of Alberta consulted with Albertans on the challenges and priorities for water management and supply, and sought fresh ideas for responsible solutions to those challenges. The consultation process had three major components - ideas generation, public outreach and consultation, and a ministerial forum on water.

The first phase – ideas generation – was completed in early 2002 when a small, diverse group of Albertans provided the Government of Alberta with advice on water management in the province. This “ideas” group identified the challenges associated with managing water in the province and several opportunities for improving it.

These ideas provided the framework for the second stage of the process, a comprehensive public outreach and consultation. The Public Consultation Summary Report outlines what Albertans had to say regarding water resources in the province.

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: March 1, 2002
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: April 15, 2002

Link: http://www.waterforlife.gov.ab.ca/docs/consultatio
nsummary.pdf

Water Management Operations – Partnering in Emergency Preparedness

Under the Water Act and Dam Safety Regulations, dam owners in Alberta are required plan for emergencies. The Dam Safety section of Alberta Environment’s Water Management Operations Division administers the Dam Safety Regulations and has produced guidelines for Emergency Preparedness and Response Planning.

Water Management Operations, as owner and operator of major dams in Alberta, has actively engaged in on-going stakeholder dialogue focusing on Flood Emergency Preparedness and Response. The intent is to raise awareness of key stakeholder groups located downstream of infrastructure and to foster vital partnerships that are needed to effectively respond to flood emergencies. These annual orientation sessions take the form of presentations and open discussion on best practices and implementing lessons learned for the benefit of all Albertans at risk caused by flooding. Other government agencies that participate in this initiative include Alberta’s River Forecasting Centre and Emergency Management Alberta. Future participants will include Alberta Environment’s Emergency Response Team. The sessions also provide an excellent opportunity for Water Management Operations staff to explain a variety of other water management initiatives within the province and how provincially owned infrastructure is a key element in Alberta’s Water for Life strategy.

Contact: Rick.Friedl@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing (annual)

Link: http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/water/wmo/index.html

Water Management Plan for the South Saskatchewan River Basin

A water management plan for the South Saskatchewan River Basin was approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council in 2006. The South Saskatchewan River Basin comprises the Red Deer, Bow, Oldman and South Saskatchewan Rivers sub-basins. The plan focuses on matters of water allocations, water quantity, river flow regimes, and protection of the aquatic environment (as affected by the foregoing).

As recommended in the plan, a Crown Reservation has been established for the Bow, Oldman and South Saskatchewan River sub-basins. The Crown Reservation dictates the purposes for which Alberta Environment can accept applications for new water allocations. The purposes include water conservation objectives, allocations for First Nations, and new storage that will both increase the reliability of existing licences and also benefit the aquatic environment. Water conservation objectives identify a desired balance between diverting water from rivers for consumption and leaving water in rivers for protection of the aquatic environment. The water conservation objectives recommended by the plan have been established.

The Interbasin Water Coordinating Committee recommended in the plan has been formed. This committee has representatives from the Watershed Planning and Advisory Committees in the South Saskatchewan River Basin and Alberta Environment. The first priority for this committee is to prepare an operations plan that will help Alberta meet the Master Agreement on Apportionment (i.e., flows that must be passed to Saskatchewan).

The Approved Water Management Plan and supporting documentation can be viewed at:
http://www.environment.alberta.ca/1674.html

Contact: Doug.Ohrn@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: 2000/2001
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: January 2006

Link: http://www.environment.alberta.ca/1674.html

West Central Airshed Society

The West Central Airshed Society is a non-profit society led by a Board of Directors with representatives from agriculture, electrical utilities, gas transmission, oil and gas producers, forestry, municipal and provincial governments and environmental non-government organizations. The aim of the regional airshed management is to monitor air quality and seek remedies for air quality problems within a region.

Contact: Rick.Phaneuf@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.wcas.ca/home/home.php

Wood Buffalo Environmental Association

Formed in 1995, the Wood Buffalo Environmental Association monitors and provides accurate, credible, transparent and understandable information on environmental quality in the Wood Buffalo Region. The Association actively facilitates dialogue among its members, and others to be responsive to the environment in their planning, decision-making and operations.

Contact: Michael.Aiton@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Ongoing
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: Information unavailable

Link: http://www.wbea.org/

Youth Environment Summit

Late in 2005, Alberta Environment hosted a series of regional roundtable discussions to gather valuable insight into the environmental priorities of today’s youth. Sessions were held in Fort McMurray, Edmonton, Red Deer, Calgary and Lethbridge. Another roundtable was held specifically for aboriginal youth. Building on these Roundtables, a provincial Youth Environment Summit was held from October 11 to 13, 2006. Almost 200 delegates from across Alberta, aged 16 to 25 years, gathered in Kananaskis Country for the Youth Environment Summit.

Participants discussed the environmental needs of Alberta communities, networked with each other and with environmental organizations, and shared their insights about important environmental issues with Minister Guy Boutilier. Keynote speaker Severn Cullis-Suzuki inspired the delegates with her story and a number of Alberta youth leaders demonstrated successful environmental projects. Delegates produced a Youth Declaration and Minister Boutilier announced a new Youth Environmental Stewardship grant program. A documentary about the Youth Environment Summit is being produced by ACCESS, the Education Station.

Contact: env.education@gov.ab.ca

Beginning Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October 12, 2006
Closing Public/Stakeholder Involvement Date: October 14, 2006

Link: http://www.environment.gov.ab.ca/yes