Western Grebe Recovery Plan - What Albertans Said
Official title: Western grebe draft recovery plan engagement
Alberta asked for public input on how to protect the western grebe, a threatened waterbird. The consultation ran from December 2018 to January 2019 and received 24 responses. The recovery plan focuses on protecting shoreline habitat on Alberta's lakes.
Why This Matters
Western grebes are an indicator of lake health. If you live near or use Alberta's central and north-central lakes, protecting these birds means protecting the ecosystem you enjoy. Healthy shorelines benefit fishing, recreation, and water quality.
What Could Change
The recovery plan could lead to new protections for shoreline reed beds on Alberta lakes. Development and activities near nesting areas may face restrictions. Power line and wind turbine placement near grebe habitat could require additional review.
Key Issues
- How should shoreline reed beds be protected from development and degradation?
- How can bird deaths from power lines, wind turbines, and solar panels be reduced?
- What measures should address disturbances from lake users?
What Happened
The public survey received 24 responses. The Endangered Species Conservation Committee reviewed the plan and made recommendations in February 2019.