TWP520/RR223 Restoration Plan

Abstract

This paper presents the restoration plan created and i mplemented for Strathcona County, in support of wetland improvements desired by Strathcona County and the Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (AESRD), occurring between May 2015-May 2018 on project site Township 520 and Range Road 223. Environmental assessment of TWP520/RR223, produced by Opus Stewart Weir, along with project management planning processes were used to determine and fulfill the desired restoration goals; to increase wetland function, to stabilize shorelines, and to mitigate erosion. Methods of data collection in this restoration plan creation include TWP520/RR223 field assessment, vegetative inventory using the plotless density estimator (PDE) method, filter identification, and SWOT-C risk management analysis. The data collected was then used to create implementation methods, restoration treatments using native plant species, design planting schemes, and develop appropriate budgets to fulfill necessary works. Site aftercare methods to monitor outplanting success, and develop an invasive management strategy, are illustrated. Alternative aftercare techniques using liquified compost extract (LCE) to increase vegetative establishment are also discussed. Quantitative results of outplanting treatments are detailed, along with ongoing outplanting efforts to ensure an 80% outplanting success rate is maintained until project completion, as required by Strathcona County. Discussed are strengths and weaknesses of designed treatment implementation used on site TWP520 , novel ecosystem experience on RR223 , recommendations for ongoing development of invasive management strategies on RR223 , and management practices to ensure targets are met upon project completion in May 2018.