Hay-Zama Lakes Complex Wildlife Monitoring, 2001

Author(s)

Kenneth D. Wright

Summary

Results of the 2001 Hay-Zama Lakes Complex Wildlife Monitoring Project are presented in this manuscript. The project is a cooperative venture implemented by the Hay-Zama Committee (a joint industry / government / public committee designed to advise on operations within the complex). The oil and gas industry has proliferated on the complex, with numerous wells situated within the wetland boundaries. Monitoring of wildlife populations on the complex during critical waterfowl migration periods allows oil and gas production to continue with the provision that a well be shut-in in the event of presence of a large congregation of waterfowl. The alternative, as defined by Alberta Energy and Utilities Board, is a general shut-in of production for this same time period. In addition to waterfowl monitoring, a single, bald eagle nesting success survey was completed. Information collected for this project will be used to direct further biological studies on the complex and to aid in the development and planning of industrial activity compatible with the needs of fisheries and wildlife. Migrating waterfowl populations during this study period were well dispersed throughout the complex allowing oil and gas wells to stay in production throughout the 2001 migration periods.

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