A newly-endorsed policy will help the City of Airdrie better manage and conserve area wetlands, with the goal of efficiently integrating these lands into urban environments while preserving their ecological functions for present and future generations, after a decision from council at a Dec. 2 regular meeting.
“There’s been extensive loss or degradation of wetlands within Alberta,” said EJ White, team leader with the City’s engineering department.
According to White’s report, Airdrie is home to a number of high-value wetlands that offer benefits such as improving water quality, reducing flooding and soil erosion, providing areas for groundwater recharge and discharge, and more.
“Wetlands are dynamic, complex habitats that contribute to biodiversity and the overall ecological health of the environment,” he said. “Wetlands also support multiple human activities, including recreation, education, aesthetics and research.”
The Wetland Policy will see these areas evaluated throughout the planning and development process, allowing the City to determine if the wetland in question is of high value – if so, it will be conserved as environmental reserve land.
Council voted unanimously to endorse the policy.