Stream Crossing Improvements in Northern Alberta

This project addressed the large-scale issue of stream crossings in Northern Alberta, where inconsistent construction standards, aging infrastructure, and limited inventories created significant challenges. The work focused on developing an industry-driven approach, including standardized inspection protocols, systems to prioritize maintenance and replacement, and watershed-level remediation planning. Between 2006 and 2010, 700 crossings were inspected, and 186 high-priority sites were re-inspected to monitor risk and effectiveness of remediation.

Initial inspections revealed substantial risks, with 56 crossings posing high fish risks, 89 causing high sedimentation risks, and 3 presenting safety concerns. By 2010, re-inspections showed a marked reduction, with 39 high fish risk crossings, 48 high sedimentation risks, and no safety risks, demonstrating the value of systematic monitoring and remediation. In the Pine Creek and Nosehill Creek watersheds, remediation efforts successfully reopened 40 km of previously blocked fish habitat, highlighting the ecological benefits of coordinated, standardized management.