I am a wetland ecologist and plant ecologist specializing in boreal and temperate systems. My research interests and expertise include wetland classification and evaluation, plant biodiversity and biogeography, bird and amphibian ecology, natural and human impacts on wetlands, and wetland policy and practice. I have conducted wetland and other research in the subarctic, boreal, prairie, and temperate regions across Canada. I am a practicing Professional Wetland Scientist and Professional Biologist and have experience with environmental impact assessments, plant community classification, and rare plant surveys.I teach Contemporary Issues in Freshwater Ecology (Biol 495), Freshwater Ecology (Biol 310), Biostatistics Phone: 780-497-4096 Address: MacEwan University
Department of Biological Sciences
Room 6-117G, City Centre Campus
10700 - 104th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5J 4S2
We investigated the effects of pipeline construction and environmental factors on the occurrence ... more We investigated the effects of pipeline construction and environmental factors on the occurrence and characteristics of the endangered plant Halimolobos virgata (Nutt.) O.E. Schultz. The plants were surveyed from 2007 to 2016 at three sites along the Keystone Pipeline in southern Alberta, Canada. Plant height, number of flowers and siliques, as well as microhabitat and climate data were collected up to 300 m away from the pipeline. Pipeline construction and distance had no effect on plant numbers or physical characteristics, with occurrences increasing markedly over time. Greater litter cover and depth and spring precipitation were associated with plant height and number of flowers and siliques. Vegetation cover was negatively correlated with H. virgata cover; however, plant height and number of flowers and seed pods were positively influenced by graminoid cover. The highest occurrences of H. virgata coincided with the driest and wettest years, and higher winter and spring temperatu...
We undertook a survey of the vegetational ecology of 94 peatlands at Duck Mountain, Manitoba to d... more We undertook a survey of the vegetational ecology of 94 peatlands at Duck Mountain, Manitoba to discriminate differences among peatland types at the southeastern edge of the boreal plain, especially black spruce swamps, and to clarify boreal swamp terminology. The majority of peatlands surveyed were wooded, relatively small (mean = 1.8 ha), and in depressions on the landscape. A classification and indicator species analysis identified the dominant peatland types as moderate-rich fens, with bogs and extreme-rich fens as rare. Black spruce swamps were relatively common and often found on gentle slopes. They were distinguished from wooded fens by larger trees (mean height = 9.7 m; diameter = 12.6 cm), denser overstory (68%), shallower peat depth (90 cm), and small size (1.6 ha). Although most similar to wooded moderate-rich fens by vegetation, black spruce swamps have a denser bryophyte layer and more mesic plant species. Significant indicator species on hummocks and drier areas includ...
"Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-gov... more "Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-government organizations face the challenge of balancing wetland conservation with promotion of wise use of resources and appropriate associated economic development. Similar challenges exist in Alberta. Over the span of a few decades the province has evolved from no wetland policy to a leader on no-net-loss policy and practice. However, as a revised policy is poised to be announced, Alberta may now become a province with potentially diminished wetland protection if replacement of lost wetlands is not considered. As growth continues in the province, Albertans are becoming increasingly concerned about environmental issues, as are those elsewhere in the world. At this juncture, Alberta has the unique opportunity to continue the leadership charge on wetland policy and practice, and can set the precedent for effective and balanced wetland conservation and management in Canada, and elsewhere. Wetlands are Alberta’s keystone ecosystem and resource. Keystone ecosystems are those that are particularly important from the perspective of ecology or management, and whose influence and significance is greater than their geographic presence. In Alberta, wetlands are found in all biomes and are inextricably linked to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Alberta’s wetlands provide a wide range of functions and values. This keystone ecosystem will become progressively more important with increased development and climate change. The state of Alberta’s wetlands is a bellwether for the condition of the province’s aquatic resources and, ultimately, the quality of life for Albertans. In Alberta there are two primary wetland types in two geographic regions that require two different management strategies. Most of the province’s wetlands are peatlands (bogs, fens, conifer swamps) in the Peatland Zone. This region coincides with, but is larger than, the green area (78% vs. 61%). Here wetland loss is generally unknown but likely relatively smaller compared to the south. Current and planned developments, however, will likely lead to significant wetland losses here. The remaining wetlands in Alberta are mineral soil wetlands (marshes, shallow water wetlands, and shrub swamps) found primarily in the province’s Mineral Soil Wetland Zone. The zone is similar to, but smaller than, the white area (22% vs. 39%). Here wetland loss approaches 65% and it is critical to preserve what remains, restore what has been impacted, and construct new wetlands to add value. The Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland regions differ significantly by wetland type, area, land ownership, population, land use pressure, and authority to set regulations. Herein lays the opportunity for Alberta to lead the development of two novel policies and practices that will address the different requirements of both zones. Examples of wetland policy and practice exist in other provinces and countries that can be used as models. In Alberta, policy for wetlands in the Mineral Soil Wetland Zone, where the highest loss has occurred, would benefit from a no-net-loss and a mitigation sequence of 1) avoid impacts, 2) mitigate or minimize impacts, and 3) compensate for irreducible impacts. The established 3:1 compensation ratio with a sliding scale for distance from original wetland is a useful replacement for lost wetland function and value until a standardized wetland evaluation system can be developed for this zone. Application of the mitigation sequence concept in Alberta has recently been identified as disfavouring avoidance of wetlands with resulting wetland loss. However, with some adjustment, no-net-loss and wetland compensation can remain proven concepts that enhance wetland conservation in Alberta. Mineral Soil Wetland Zone policy is the low-hanging fruit in Alberta. Policy development in the Peatland Zone is more challenging and will require extensive consultation, resources, funding, and research. Here, time is of the essence. Nothing less should be acceptable given that the province’s most ambitious development plans are in the region with the most wetlands. In the interim, priority should be given to conserving wetlands in the region until the creative solutions can be explored and a Peatland Zone policy developed. Both wetland policies would be enhanced with support from the following programs and products: a validation program for qualified wetland workers and agencies; a provincial wetland inventory; a made-in-Alberta wetland classification, and; individual evaluation systems for the Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland Zones using holistic broad-based indicators including hydrological, biological, social, rarity, and other aspects. Care must be taken when determining function and placing values on wetlands. Wetland rarity is independent of function and value as much as function is independent of value. Rarity or importance must not be used at the cost of the lost...
Highlights • In the boreal region, knowledge of plant species diversity (richness and rarity) is ... more Highlights • In the boreal region, knowledge of plant species diversity (richness and rarity) is low compared with other taxa such as birds and mammals. This is particularly true of peatlands, which have a higher proportion of characteristic species compared to upland ecosystems in the same region. • Peatlands influence biodiversity far beyond their borders by maintaining hydrological and microclimate features of adjacent areas and providing temporary habitats or refuges for upland species. • Although not yet commonly logged in western Canada, wooded moderate-rich fens and black spruce swamps may have stands of marketable timber. Research has shown that, compared to other peatland types, these types have significantly higher plant diversity. • Knowledge of plant diversity in peatlands can improve the development of effective forest management plans. What is currently known about plant diversity in peatlands could be integrated into forest management plans at the ecosite and ecoeleme...
Balancing peatland conservation with appropriate economic development is a significant challenge ... more Balancing peatland conservation with appropriate economic development is a significant challenge in Alberta, Canada. Wetlands are extensive in areas where the scale of industrial activity is large. This includes extraction of significant petroleum reserves in the form of oil sands. Little is known of potential cumulative impacts on peatlands, but the effects will potentially be high. This includes climate change impacts. While novel wetland restoration and construction initiatives are being developed, wetland policy and management initiatives have not kept pace with peatland loss and alteration. Peatland conservation could be enhanced through the recognition of wetlands as Alberta's keystone ecosystem, two distinct provincial wetland zones, identification of wetland function and value, and establishment of no-net-loss policy.
Highlights • In Canada's boreal region, wooded peatlands comprised of bogs, fens, and conifer... more Highlights • In Canada's boreal region, wooded peatlands comprised of bogs, fens, and conifer swamps make up a significant component of the forest land base and many have marketable-size trees. • In parts of eastern Canada's boreal region logging of marketable trees in peatlands is common. Since the 1980s protocols have been developed to protect advance growth and minimize site disturbance. Logging of marketable trees in peatlands is uncommon in western Canada, and consequently there is comparatively little research on the effects to peatlands in the west. • Results from an early (1-12 years) stand level assessment of timber harvest in Manitoba wooded fens have revealed impacts similar to those observed in northern Ontario nutrient-rich peatlands. These impacts include nutrient flushes, water table increases, loss of hummocks, and peat abrasion from wind and sun. • Further research in Canada's western boreal peatlands is required to determine if early stand level impacts...
"Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-gov... more "Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-government organizations face the challenge of balancing wetland conservation with promotion of wise use of resources and appropriate associated economic development. Similar challenges exist in Alberta. Over the span of a few decades the province has evolved from no wetland policy to a leader on no-net-loss policy and practice. However, as a revised policy is poised to be announced, Alberta may now become a province with potentially diminished wetland protection if replacement of lost wetlands is not considered. As growth continues in the province, Albertans are becoming increasingly concerned about environmental issues, as are those elsewhere in the world. At this juncture, Alberta has the unique opportunity to continue the leadership charge on wetland policy and practice, and can set the precedent for effective and balanced wetland conservation and management in Canada, and elsewhere. Wetlands are Alberta’s keystone ecosystem and resource. Keystone ecosystems are those that are particularly important from the perspective of ecology or management, and whose influence and significance is greater than their geographic presence. In Alberta, wetlands are found in all biomes and are inextricably linked to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Alberta’s wetlands provide a wide range of functions and values. This keystone ecosystem will become progressively more important with increased development and climate change. The state of Alberta’s wetlands is a bellwether for the condition of the province’s aquatic resources and, ultimately, the quality of life for Albertans. In Alberta there are two primary wetland types in two geographic regions that require two different management strategies. Most of the province’s wetlands are peatlands (bogs, fens, conifer swamps) in the Peatland Zone. This region coincides with, but is larger than, the green area (78% vs. 61%). Here wetland loss is generally unknown but likely relatively smaller compared to the south. Current and planned developments, however, will likely lead to significant wetland losses here. The remaining wetlands in Alberta are mineral soil wetlands (marshes, shallow water wetlands, and shrub swamps) found primarily in the province’s Mineral Soil Wetland Zone. The zone is similar to, but smaller than, the white area (22% vs. 39%). Here wetland loss approaches 65% and it is critical to preserve what remains, restore what has been impacted, and construct new wetlands to add value. The Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland regions differ significantly by wetland type, area, land ownership, population, land use pressure, and authority to set regulations. Herein lays the opportunity for Alberta to lead the development of two novel policies and practices that will address the different requirements of both zones. Examples of wetland policy and practice exist in other provinces and countries that can be used as models. In Alberta, policy for wetlands in the Mineral Soil Wetland Zone, where the highest loss has occurred, would benefit from a no-net-loss and a mitigation sequence of 1) avoid impacts, 2) mitigate or minimize impacts, and 3) compensate for irreducible impacts. The established 3:1 compensation ratio with a sliding scale for distance from original wetland is a useful replacement for lost wetland function and value until a standardized wetland evaluation system can be developed for this zone. Application of the mitigation sequence concept in Alberta has recently been identified as disfavouring avoidance of wetlands with resulting wetland loss. However, with some adjustment, no-net-loss and wetland compensation can remain proven concepts that enhance wetland conservation in Alberta. Mineral Soil Wetland Zone policy is the low-hanging fruit in Alberta. Policy development in the Peatland Zone is more challenging and will require extensive consultation, resources, funding, and research. Here, time is of the essence. Nothing less should be acceptable given that the province’s most ambitious development plans are in the region with the most wetlands. In the interim, priority should be given to conserving wetlands in the region until the creative solutions can be explored and a Peatland Zone policy developed. Both wetland policies would be enhanced with support from the following programs and products: a validation program for qualified wetland workers and agencies; a provincial wetland inventory; a made-in-Alberta wetland classification, and; individual evaluation systems for the Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland Zones using holistic broad-based indicators including hydrological, biological, social, rarity, and other aspects. Care must be taken when determining function and placing values on wetlands. Wetland rarity is independent of function and value as much as function is independent of value. Rarity or importance must not be used at the cost of the lost...
Microplastics are globally ubiquitous contaminants, but quantitative data on their presence in fr... more Microplastics are globally ubiquitous contaminants, but quantitative data on their presence in freshwater environments are sparse. This study investigates the occurrence, composition, and spatial trends of microplastic contamination in the North Saskatchewan River flowing through Edmonton, Alberta, the fifth largest city in Canada. Surface water samples were collected from seven sites throughout the city, upstream and downstream of the city, and near potential point sources (i.e., a wastewater treatment plant). Samples were spiked with fluorescent microbeads as internal standards and extracted by wet peroxide oxidation and density floatation. Microplastics were found in all samples , ranging in concentration from 4.6 to 88.3 particles·m −3 (mean = 26.2 ± 18.4 particles·m −3). Fibers were the dominant morphology recovered, and most were of anthropogenic origin and chemically identified as dyed cotton or polyester by Raman microspectroscopy. The majority of fragments were identified a...
Introduction This article is the last of a two-part series on peatland creatures. Here, I focus o... more Introduction This article is the last of a two-part series on peatland creatures. Here, I focus on peatlands and invertebrates and some microfauna, and then outline wetlands from the perspective of conservation and creatures of all sizes. A table with peatland creatures, great and small, is included below. Invertebrates are essential food sources for animals in higher trophic levels and some plants at lower trophic levels. They are a common component of most wetland types and appear to be less affected by the acidity of water than other animals. Water availability appears to be the critical aspect, with ephemeral and permanent pools providing key habitat; temporary extreme conditions such as drought or too much water can play havoc on specific lifecycle stages (Neckles et al. 1990). Invertebrates are closely tied to their environment and their fossilized parts are important aspects of understanding plant succession (Roper 1996, Whitehouse 2004) and the potential impacts of global wa...
We investigated the effects of pipeline construction and environmental factors on the occurrence ... more We investigated the effects of pipeline construction and environmental factors on the occurrence and characteristics of the endangered plant Halimolobos virgata (Nutt.) O.E. Schultz. The plants were surveyed from 2007 to 2016 at three sites along the Keystone Pipeline in southern Alberta, Canada. Plant height, number of flowers and siliques, as well as microhabitat and climate data were collected up to 300 m away from the pipeline. Pipeline construction and distance had no effect on plant numbers or physical characteristics, with occurrences increasing markedly over time. Greater litter cover and depth and spring precipitation were associated with plant height and number of flowers and siliques. Vegetation cover was negatively correlated with H. virgata cover; however, plant height and number of flowers and seed pods were positively influenced by graminoid cover. The highest occurrences of H. virgata coincided with the driest and wettest years, and higher winter and spring temperatu...
We undertook a survey of the vegetational ecology of 94 peatlands at Duck Mountain, Manitoba to d... more We undertook a survey of the vegetational ecology of 94 peatlands at Duck Mountain, Manitoba to discriminate differences among peatland types at the southeastern edge of the boreal plain, especially black spruce swamps, and to clarify boreal swamp terminology. The majority of peatlands surveyed were wooded, relatively small (mean = 1.8 ha), and in depressions on the landscape. A classification and indicator species analysis identified the dominant peatland types as moderate-rich fens, with bogs and extreme-rich fens as rare. Black spruce swamps were relatively common and often found on gentle slopes. They were distinguished from wooded fens by larger trees (mean height = 9.7 m; diameter = 12.6 cm), denser overstory (68%), shallower peat depth (90 cm), and small size (1.6 ha). Although most similar to wooded moderate-rich fens by vegetation, black spruce swamps have a denser bryophyte layer and more mesic plant species. Significant indicator species on hummocks and drier areas includ...
"Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-gov... more "Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-government organizations face the challenge of balancing wetland conservation with promotion of wise use of resources and appropriate associated economic development. Similar challenges exist in Alberta. Over the span of a few decades the province has evolved from no wetland policy to a leader on no-net-loss policy and practice. However, as a revised policy is poised to be announced, Alberta may now become a province with potentially diminished wetland protection if replacement of lost wetlands is not considered. As growth continues in the province, Albertans are becoming increasingly concerned about environmental issues, as are those elsewhere in the world. At this juncture, Alberta has the unique opportunity to continue the leadership charge on wetland policy and practice, and can set the precedent for effective and balanced wetland conservation and management in Canada, and elsewhere. Wetlands are Alberta’s keystone ecosystem and resource. Keystone ecosystems are those that are particularly important from the perspective of ecology or management, and whose influence and significance is greater than their geographic presence. In Alberta, wetlands are found in all biomes and are inextricably linked to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Alberta’s wetlands provide a wide range of functions and values. This keystone ecosystem will become progressively more important with increased development and climate change. The state of Alberta’s wetlands is a bellwether for the condition of the province’s aquatic resources and, ultimately, the quality of life for Albertans. In Alberta there are two primary wetland types in two geographic regions that require two different management strategies. Most of the province’s wetlands are peatlands (bogs, fens, conifer swamps) in the Peatland Zone. This region coincides with, but is larger than, the green area (78% vs. 61%). Here wetland loss is generally unknown but likely relatively smaller compared to the south. Current and planned developments, however, will likely lead to significant wetland losses here. The remaining wetlands in Alberta are mineral soil wetlands (marshes, shallow water wetlands, and shrub swamps) found primarily in the province’s Mineral Soil Wetland Zone. The zone is similar to, but smaller than, the white area (22% vs. 39%). Here wetland loss approaches 65% and it is critical to preserve what remains, restore what has been impacted, and construct new wetlands to add value. The Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland regions differ significantly by wetland type, area, land ownership, population, land use pressure, and authority to set regulations. Herein lays the opportunity for Alberta to lead the development of two novel policies and practices that will address the different requirements of both zones. Examples of wetland policy and practice exist in other provinces and countries that can be used as models. In Alberta, policy for wetlands in the Mineral Soil Wetland Zone, where the highest loss has occurred, would benefit from a no-net-loss and a mitigation sequence of 1) avoid impacts, 2) mitigate or minimize impacts, and 3) compensate for irreducible impacts. The established 3:1 compensation ratio with a sliding scale for distance from original wetland is a useful replacement for lost wetland function and value until a standardized wetland evaluation system can be developed for this zone. Application of the mitigation sequence concept in Alberta has recently been identified as disfavouring avoidance of wetlands with resulting wetland loss. However, with some adjustment, no-net-loss and wetland compensation can remain proven concepts that enhance wetland conservation in Alberta. Mineral Soil Wetland Zone policy is the low-hanging fruit in Alberta. Policy development in the Peatland Zone is more challenging and will require extensive consultation, resources, funding, and research. Here, time is of the essence. Nothing less should be acceptable given that the province’s most ambitious development plans are in the region with the most wetlands. In the interim, priority should be given to conserving wetlands in the region until the creative solutions can be explored and a Peatland Zone policy developed. Both wetland policies would be enhanced with support from the following programs and products: a validation program for qualified wetland workers and agencies; a provincial wetland inventory; a made-in-Alberta wetland classification, and; individual evaluation systems for the Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland Zones using holistic broad-based indicators including hydrological, biological, social, rarity, and other aspects. Care must be taken when determining function and placing values on wetlands. Wetland rarity is independent of function and value as much as function is independent of value. Rarity or importance must not be used at the cost of the lost...
Highlights • In the boreal region, knowledge of plant species diversity (richness and rarity) is ... more Highlights • In the boreal region, knowledge of plant species diversity (richness and rarity) is low compared with other taxa such as birds and mammals. This is particularly true of peatlands, which have a higher proportion of characteristic species compared to upland ecosystems in the same region. • Peatlands influence biodiversity far beyond their borders by maintaining hydrological and microclimate features of adjacent areas and providing temporary habitats or refuges for upland species. • Although not yet commonly logged in western Canada, wooded moderate-rich fens and black spruce swamps may have stands of marketable timber. Research has shown that, compared to other peatland types, these types have significantly higher plant diversity. • Knowledge of plant diversity in peatlands can improve the development of effective forest management plans. What is currently known about plant diversity in peatlands could be integrated into forest management plans at the ecosite and ecoeleme...
Balancing peatland conservation with appropriate economic development is a significant challenge ... more Balancing peatland conservation with appropriate economic development is a significant challenge in Alberta, Canada. Wetlands are extensive in areas where the scale of industrial activity is large. This includes extraction of significant petroleum reserves in the form of oil sands. Little is known of potential cumulative impacts on peatlands, but the effects will potentially be high. This includes climate change impacts. While novel wetland restoration and construction initiatives are being developed, wetland policy and management initiatives have not kept pace with peatland loss and alteration. Peatland conservation could be enhanced through the recognition of wetlands as Alberta's keystone ecosystem, two distinct provincial wetland zones, identification of wetland function and value, and establishment of no-net-loss policy.
Highlights • In Canada's boreal region, wooded peatlands comprised of bogs, fens, and conifer... more Highlights • In Canada's boreal region, wooded peatlands comprised of bogs, fens, and conifer swamps make up a significant component of the forest land base and many have marketable-size trees. • In parts of eastern Canada's boreal region logging of marketable trees in peatlands is common. Since the 1980s protocols have been developed to protect advance growth and minimize site disturbance. Logging of marketable trees in peatlands is uncommon in western Canada, and consequently there is comparatively little research on the effects to peatlands in the west. • Results from an early (1-12 years) stand level assessment of timber harvest in Manitoba wooded fens have revealed impacts similar to those observed in northern Ontario nutrient-rich peatlands. These impacts include nutrient flushes, water table increases, loss of hummocks, and peat abrasion from wind and sun. • Further research in Canada's western boreal peatlands is required to determine if early stand level impacts...
"Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-gov... more "Worldwide, governments, the private sector, and non-government organizations face the challenge of balancing wetland conservation with promotion of wise use of resources and appropriate associated economic development. Similar challenges exist in Alberta. Over the span of a few decades the province has evolved from no wetland policy to a leader on no-net-loss policy and practice. However, as a revised policy is poised to be announced, Alberta may now become a province with potentially diminished wetland protection if replacement of lost wetlands is not considered. As growth continues in the province, Albertans are becoming increasingly concerned about environmental issues, as are those elsewhere in the world. At this juncture, Alberta has the unique opportunity to continue the leadership charge on wetland policy and practice, and can set the precedent for effective and balanced wetland conservation and management in Canada, and elsewhere. Wetlands are Alberta’s keystone ecosystem and resource. Keystone ecosystems are those that are particularly important from the perspective of ecology or management, and whose influence and significance is greater than their geographic presence. In Alberta, wetlands are found in all biomes and are inextricably linked to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Alberta’s wetlands provide a wide range of functions and values. This keystone ecosystem will become progressively more important with increased development and climate change. The state of Alberta’s wetlands is a bellwether for the condition of the province’s aquatic resources and, ultimately, the quality of life for Albertans. In Alberta there are two primary wetland types in two geographic regions that require two different management strategies. Most of the province’s wetlands are peatlands (bogs, fens, conifer swamps) in the Peatland Zone. This region coincides with, but is larger than, the green area (78% vs. 61%). Here wetland loss is generally unknown but likely relatively smaller compared to the south. Current and planned developments, however, will likely lead to significant wetland losses here. The remaining wetlands in Alberta are mineral soil wetlands (marshes, shallow water wetlands, and shrub swamps) found primarily in the province’s Mineral Soil Wetland Zone. The zone is similar to, but smaller than, the white area (22% vs. 39%). Here wetland loss approaches 65% and it is critical to preserve what remains, restore what has been impacted, and construct new wetlands to add value. The Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland regions differ significantly by wetland type, area, land ownership, population, land use pressure, and authority to set regulations. Herein lays the opportunity for Alberta to lead the development of two novel policies and practices that will address the different requirements of both zones. Examples of wetland policy and practice exist in other provinces and countries that can be used as models. In Alberta, policy for wetlands in the Mineral Soil Wetland Zone, where the highest loss has occurred, would benefit from a no-net-loss and a mitigation sequence of 1) avoid impacts, 2) mitigate or minimize impacts, and 3) compensate for irreducible impacts. The established 3:1 compensation ratio with a sliding scale for distance from original wetland is a useful replacement for lost wetland function and value until a standardized wetland evaluation system can be developed for this zone. Application of the mitigation sequence concept in Alberta has recently been identified as disfavouring avoidance of wetlands with resulting wetland loss. However, with some adjustment, no-net-loss and wetland compensation can remain proven concepts that enhance wetland conservation in Alberta. Mineral Soil Wetland Zone policy is the low-hanging fruit in Alberta. Policy development in the Peatland Zone is more challenging and will require extensive consultation, resources, funding, and research. Here, time is of the essence. Nothing less should be acceptable given that the province’s most ambitious development plans are in the region with the most wetlands. In the interim, priority should be given to conserving wetlands in the region until the creative solutions can be explored and a Peatland Zone policy developed. Both wetland policies would be enhanced with support from the following programs and products: a validation program for qualified wetland workers and agencies; a provincial wetland inventory; a made-in-Alberta wetland classification, and; individual evaluation systems for the Peatland and Mineral Soil Wetland Zones using holistic broad-based indicators including hydrological, biological, social, rarity, and other aspects. Care must be taken when determining function and placing values on wetlands. Wetland rarity is independent of function and value as much as function is independent of value. Rarity or importance must not be used at the cost of the lost...
Microplastics are globally ubiquitous contaminants, but quantitative data on their presence in fr... more Microplastics are globally ubiquitous contaminants, but quantitative data on their presence in freshwater environments are sparse. This study investigates the occurrence, composition, and spatial trends of microplastic contamination in the North Saskatchewan River flowing through Edmonton, Alberta, the fifth largest city in Canada. Surface water samples were collected from seven sites throughout the city, upstream and downstream of the city, and near potential point sources (i.e., a wastewater treatment plant). Samples were spiked with fluorescent microbeads as internal standards and extracted by wet peroxide oxidation and density floatation. Microplastics were found in all samples , ranging in concentration from 4.6 to 88.3 particles·m −3 (mean = 26.2 ± 18.4 particles·m −3). Fibers were the dominant morphology recovered, and most were of anthropogenic origin and chemically identified as dyed cotton or polyester by Raman microspectroscopy. The majority of fragments were identified a...
Introduction This article is the last of a two-part series on peatland creatures. Here, I focus o... more Introduction This article is the last of a two-part series on peatland creatures. Here, I focus on peatlands and invertebrates and some microfauna, and then outline wetlands from the perspective of conservation and creatures of all sizes. A table with peatland creatures, great and small, is included below. Invertebrates are essential food sources for animals in higher trophic levels and some plants at lower trophic levels. They are a common component of most wetland types and appear to be less affected by the acidity of water than other animals. Water availability appears to be the critical aspect, with ephemeral and permanent pools providing key habitat; temporary extreme conditions such as drought or too much water can play havoc on specific lifecycle stages (Neckles et al. 1990). Invertebrates are closely tied to their environment and their fossilized parts are important aspects of understanding plant succession (Roper 1996, Whitehouse 2004) and the potential impacts of global wa...
Wetlands are arguably Alberta’s keystone ecosystem. They are inextricably linked through function... more Wetlands are arguably Alberta’s keystone ecosystem. They are inextricably linked through function to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial environments. Many of these functions have high monetary and conservation values. Development of Alberta’s bountiful resources has created significant wetland management challenges from municipal to federal levels of government. These include the ability to identify and delineate wetlands, evaluate wetland function and value, and develop balanced wetland policy and practices. Government, industry, and researchers are currently engaged in developing a variety of progressive wetland management tools. These include an inventory, a classification system, wetland health and function assessment tools, and novel restoration and construction initiatives. Alberta’s draft wetland policy was once lauded as one of North America’s most progressive wetland instruments. Less is known of the province’s new wetland policy and the long-term repercussions of its implementation. Alberta’s wetlands are bipartite. They are comprised of two primary types in two geographic regions in the province: the peatland zone in the north and mineral soil wetland zone in the south. There are significant differences in wetland cover, wetland function and value, and land use between these two zones. Developing effective policy and management strategies will necessitate recognition of this duality. The challenges associated with managing Alberta’s wetlands present a unique opportunity for the province to assume a leadership role. As wetland practitioners and administrators, knowledge exchanged at this workshop will enhance our understanding of wetland tools and their application to management of Alberta’s keystone ecosystem.
Wetlands are a dominant component of the western boreal region of Canada. They are comprised prim... more Wetlands are a dominant component of the western boreal region of Canada. They are comprised primarily of peatlands, wetlands with organic soils. Peatlands vary from acidic bogs to calcareous fens and offer a rich array habitats for plants, including orchids. A wide variety of factors contribute to plant diversity in peatlands, including water table, water chemistry, shade, and other microhabitat factors. Of the rare plants found in peatlands, most are comprised of sedges and some of North America's rarest orchids. While peatlands appear to be a safe harbour for orchids and other rare plants, development pressures mean that these sites are not immune to disturbance. Current policy to protect orchids (and other plant species) is relatively weak. Conservation of specific ecosystems may be a more effective means to protect rare orchids.
Ecoregions are increasingly being used as a framework for conservation planning. The Mid-Boreal U... more Ecoregions are increasingly being used as a framework for conservation planning. The Mid-Boreal Uplands Ecoregion stretches across western Canada from Manitoba to British Columbia. Within this Ecoregion (Manitoba to Alberta), we compared the plant communities and environmental variables in 80 sites of a single wetland type, wooded moderate-rich fen. Wooded moderate rich fens are a common boreal wetland, but among peatland types, are most likely to have the highest species diversity and number of rare plant species. Regional diversity totalled 273 species and was comprised of 86 bryophytes and 187 vascular plants. Total local diversity was greatest in Manitoba, and decreased in a longitudinal trend through Saskatchewan and Alberta. This may be related, in part, to the influence of orographic precipitation at Manitoba sites and to a decreasing gradient of growing degree days. Of the vascular plants in which provincial rarity information was available, ten species were observed across the Ecoregion. Ordinations and other analyses revealed distinct plant communities for all three locations, although bryophyte assemblages were more similar among locations than those of vascular plants. Bryophyte diversity increased with latitude and longitude, whereas vascular plant diversity decreased. Species composition over this continental scale exhibited a continuous change, even within a single wetland type in one Ecoregion. Conservation plans based on Ecoregion boundaries are preferable to political boundaries, but need to account for changes in abiotic conditions (e.g. precipitation) and biotic aspects (e.g., proximity to boundaries and transition zones).
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