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Wetland replacement program
The provincial Wetland Replacement Program (WRP) is an initiative that supports municipalities and non-profit organizations in restoring or constructing wetlands to offset permanent wetland losses, helping to conserve Alberta's natural ecosystems to replace wetlands and mitigate historical wetland losses. The funds collected, as a result of lost wetlands within our jurisdiction, can now be accessed and applied to restoration and construction projects on County landscapes.Â
Strathcona County values the biological diversity within the natural environment and is committed to conserving a healthy, connected and well managed ecological network. Our conservation goal includes restoring and rehabilitating degraded natural resources, where practical. Â
Potential project sites
An internal WRP committee has been developed to help direct WRP projects within Strathcona County. The committee uses a number of site selection priorities to identify potential project sites, which are brought to Council for approval.
Busenius Estates
The County's first wetland restoration project totalled 2.32 hectares in Busenius Estates and included the restoration of two wetland basins.
Work included the excavation of six deep pools and the installation of groundwater dams along the existing ditch at the low edge of each pool. All soil material remained on-site and was spread around the excavation areas to tie back into the existing hay-land. Earthwork was completed in August of 2022.
Snags and coarse wood debris were installed as habitat features and to create structure. Additional shallow pools were excavated to provide additional habitat and increase biodiversity support. Seeding of the deep pools and the soil spreading areas was completed in the fall of 2022, with a native wetland seed mix in the wetland areas, and a hay-land mix in the upland areas. Planting of aquatic species and the installation of willows was completed in July of 2023.The four-year monitoring period began in 2023.Â
Uncas
In August 2022, a wetland replacement project was completed near Uncas Elementary School, successfully restoring a series of attractive and fully functional marsh wetlands. Students from the University of Alberta's Wetland Restoration and Construction course  received hands-on experience with site selection, testing soil texture, selecting construction techniques, establishing designed hydrology and vegetation aspects, and working with heavy equipment by visiting the site during construction. A planting event was held with Uncas Elementary school to engage with students in June 2023. The four-year monitoring period began in 2023.Â
The constructed wetlands are expected to reduce the impacts of extreme weather events such as flooding and drought, enhance water quality, support biodiversity, provide vital habitat for wildlife and species at risk, and offer valuable educational opportunities.
Planning and Development Services
Phone: 780-464-8080
Email: agricultureandenvironment@strathcona.ca