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1,149 more dwelling units proposed on Pigeon Lake 01/12/12
Edmonton... The County of Leduc is looking at a development proposal which will include 1,149 dwelling units called Watermere Resort in a critical habitat area adjacent to Pigeon Lake, one of the most popular recreational lakes in Alberta. The privately owned resort which will include year-round residential and commercial sites will feature condominium style ownership of all facilities and infrastructure on an approximately 300 acre parcel of land.
The AFGA questions the wisdom of this as Pigeon Lake already receives a high degree of pressure from visitors, cottage owners, and others.
"Pigeon Lake has a small drainage area, receiving water via several intermittent streams in the north and northwest of the lake," said Conrad Fennema, AFGA President. "The pressure on fish populations is intensified by extensive shoreline modifications, which have resulted in the widespread destruction of crucial fish spawning habitat."
Currently there are few spawning areas around the lake and AFGA fears that this development which is within ½ mile of one of these spawning grounds will cause irreparable damage.
Further, AFGA is concerned with decreasing water quality, increased recreational activities, algae outbreaks, and more fishing pressure than the lake can sustain. The primary factors contributing to the decline in Pigeon Lake's health can be attributed to agricultural and residential developments.
To get more info on this proposal visit www.leduc-county.com/area-structure-plans/watermere-resort-lasp and to submit comments until January 16 at noon send to danne@leduc-county.com
The Alberta Fish and Game Association is a not-for-profit volunteer organization proud to serve Albertans in the promotion of the wise use of our fish and wildlife resources and the conservation of their habitats. The AFGA has been active since 1908 in working towards these goals and has a province-wide membership of more than 20,500 individuals spread among 100+ Clubs. |
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