By Adam Ophus

Buffer Zone

County to seek public input on Clear Creek & North Raven River

Apr 16, 2021 | 5:37 PM

Another delegation from the Alberta Fish and Game Association (AFGA) has once again come before Clearwater County Council advocating for a buffer zone along the Clear Creek & North Raven River.

Although mostly directed towards proposed gravel pits in the area that would go below the water table, it would also be directed towards other development as well. Victor Benz with AFGA stated that land in the area would be treated nearly identical to current agriculture land, it would also restrict all below water table development in the area. As an example of ways it could affect regular land owners, Benz stated things like sewage lagoons would be a problem as well.

Victor Benz reiterated that the issues the AFGA has is, that it is the largest white zone, spring fed, river in Alberta. People have been putting in a huge effort to preserve it for the last 50 years. “It’s a particularly special place that deserves special attention.” Benz had claimed.

He stated that a large issue with a gravel pit is the creation of a small lake that will warm and oxygenate the water. “We are quite concerned that chromium in the sediment could be activated.” He mentioned that another issue is a possible rerouting of the springs.

Council initially sent a letter asking Alberta Environment and Parks for assistance regarding the matter. The government’s response was that they would not comment about the land use planning decision, and they recommended that another consultant do a peer review to support the documents provided by the AFGA. Jose Reyes, Director Planning & Development noted that a peer review could cost roughly $5000.

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