LAKELAND - The North Saskatchewan River - or at least a portion of it - could one day become part of the Canadian Heritage Rivers System (CHRS), the country's national river conservation program.
Smoky Lake County is spearheading the initiative. Jordan Ruegg and Kyle Schole both work in the planning and development department with the municipality. On Dec. 8, they spoke with County of St. Paul council about their goal to have the North Saskatchewan River become part of the CHRS.
The CHRS program began in 1984, with Alberta joining in 1994. The program is commemorative in nature, and does not impact development along the river, explained Ruegg. He noted that there would be no obligations or restrictions imposed if the river does become part of the CHRS. There also is no financial obligation to supporting the initiative.
The initiative is purely grassroots driven, and focuses on working with landowners and agriculture instead of any type of enforcement, said Ruegg. The initiative is "exclusively commemorative."
Victoria Settlement is located within Smoky Lake County, and is a point of pride for the municipality. The provincial historic site offers visitors a glimpse at the past, and is located on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River. Ruegg explained how the visitor economy is moving toward people seeking out experiences - specifically cultural experiences.
When asked what portion exactly is being sought for designation into the program, Ruegg said that was yet to be determined, and would be reliant on participation from area municipalities.
Coun. Laurent Amyotte asked if there was any connection in the work being done at Métis Crossing.
Métis Crossing is the first major Métis cultural interpretive centre in Alberta and is also located along the river. This year, a Cultural Gathering Centre was completed at the site. Métis Crossing is run by a board of directors, which is chaired by Audrey Poitras, Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) President.
Schole noted that Métis Crossing is aware of the initiative to have the North Saskatchewan River be included in the CHRS.
"They are aware of the project. They are very supportive," said Schole.
Along with natural and cultural values, the initiative also considering recreational opportunities. Some sort of public participation is likely to occur as the initiative moves ahead, but exactly what that will look like is still uncertain. Smoky Lake County is willing to facilitate those conversations though.
Reeve Steve Upham said he thought the initiative was a great idea, and didn't see an issue with offering a letter of support. Later in the meeting, council approved a motion to provide a letter of support for the North Saskatchewan River's nomination into the CHRS.
"Overall, this initiative has been tremendously well received by landowners and other river stakeholders," said Schole, when reached for comment after the meeting. "Previous studies have already identified the North Saskatchewan River as being one of the most culturally significant in Canada. It represents exceptional value, deserving to be celebrated and shared."
Over 20 letters of support have already been received.
