Above-ground Pipeline Effects on Wildlife

Cenovus FCCL Ltd. (Cenovus), as operator of the FCCL Partnership, is developing and operating a commercial SAGD project for bitumen recovery at Foster Creek. This report presents findings from the Above-Ground Pipeline (AGP) monitoring project for the Foster Creek Transportation Project (FCTP). The objectives of the project are to assess wildlife responses to the AGP and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented crossing opportunities. Monitoring was carried out using two survey methods: photographic monitoring and track count surveys conducted along the full length of the AGP. Photographic data were collected using RECONYX cameras deployed at three over-pipe crossing structures and at multiple under-pipe crossings of varying heights along the pipeline.

Monitoring along the AGP at FCTP showed that most wildlife species cross either under the pipe at certain heights or over designated crossing structures, with the exception of beaver, fisher/marten, and red fox. Photographic and track count surveys suggest that animals preferentially cross under pipes elevated above 1.4 m, indicating that pipe heights between 1.4 m and 1.8 m are effective mitigation measures when combined with crossing structures. Current findings highlight the importance of using empirical monitoring data, academic research, and expert recommendations to guide optimal AGP height for wildlife movement in oil sands projects. Continued monitoring and targeted studies, including GPS collaring, are recommended to reduce uncertainty and refine mitigation strategies.