Wildlife Habitat Mitigation for the Oldman River Dam Project

To compensate for losses of wildlife habitat associated with the construction and operation of the Oldman River dam in southern Alberta, an extensive wildlife habitat mitigation program has been undertaken. Habitat evaluation procedures were used to determine the amount and types of habitat losses in the reservoir area, and the most important habitat needs of wildlife in the mitigation program. Three major types of mitigation, involving thirteen specific measures, are being employed in the Mitigation Program: habitat protection, habitat enhancement and habitat creation. A concept plan was developed that addresses the biological requirements of wildlife (e.g., movement corridors, core habitat areas and other specialized habitats) in conjunction with existing land uses, the need for a good distribution of projects around the reservoir, and the suitability for establishment of woody vegetation. In total, 65 habitat projects are being developed, as well as additional projects for cliff nesting raptors. Other habitat enhancement and creation projects may be developed as opportunities arise during dam
construction and reclamation.
One habitat project, the Glass Project, is discussed in the detail. The project involves a combination of habitat protection (fencing), enhancement of three existing wetland basins, development of a new wetland basin and watercourse, reseeding of cultivated areas with grasses and/orbs, and the planting of large numbers of trees and shrubs along the crests and western slopes of the major coulees. The project also includes the installation of a subsurface irrigation and pump system for watering of trees of shrubs, and installation of snow fencing for trapping of snow cover and wind protection.