Should Alberta's South Athabasca Land Use Plan Be Approved?
Official title: South Athabasca Sub-regional Plan engagement
Alberta is asking for feedback on a new land use plan for the South Athabasca region. The plan sets rules for roads, logging, oil and gas, and recreation in an area bordered by the Clearwater, Athabasca, and Beaver Rivers. This overlaps Treaty 6, 8, and 10 lands, so Indigenous input is a key part of the process.
Why This Matters
Live in northeastern Alberta? Hunt, fish, or camp in this area? This plan decides what can be built and where. If you're in Lac La Biche, Cold Lake, or Fort McMurray, these rules will shape your backyard for years to come.
What Could Change
New rules would govern road construction, tree cutting, oil and gas operations, and recreation across the sub-region. The Lower Athabasca Regional Plan would be amended to incorporate these regulatory details. Holders of existing permits may need to propose alternative approaches to meet the new requirements.
Key Issues
- What rules should govern road building, logging, and oil and gas work in the area?
- How should recreation and industry uses be balanced?
- How can Indigenous traditional land uses be protected and enabled?
- What amendments to the Lower Athabasca Regional Plan are appropriate?
How to Participate
- Review the Draft South Athabasca Sub-regional Plan and the Draft Regulatory Details to understand what's being proposed.
- Check the overview map to see if your area is affected.
- Complete the online survey starting January 9, 2026, or attend a virtual session or in-person open house in Lac La Biche, Cold Lake, or Fort McMurray (dates to be announced).
- Email your feedback to epa.southathabascasrp@gov.ab.ca.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (2)
- What do you think about the draft South Athabasca Sub-regional Plan?
- What are your views on the proposed amendments to the Lower Athabasca Regional Plan?