Alberta’s species at risk list has been updated and the results are both good and bad news for wildlife in the Bow Valley.
The good news is trumpeter swans have been removed from the threatened species list and are now identified as a species of special concern. That means, while still vulnerable, the grand birds are not considered to be immediately in danger.
“I’m pleased the trumpeter swan can now be removed from the threatened species list,” said Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Robin Campbell in a press release. “This success is a testament to the hard work, careful planning and commitment of Albertans to preserve our province’s biodiversity.”
The bad news is that four additional species were added to the threatened species list due to declining or small populations. They are Athabasca rainbow trout, bull trout, pygmy whitefish and Western grebe.
The changes to the lists are the result of recommendations brought forward by Alberta’s Endangered Species Conservation Committee and its scientific subcommittee.
“By recognizing that these species need special attention, we can take the necessary steps to ensure they remain a part of Alberta’s landscapes for many years to come,” said MLA Ken Lemke. “As the chair of Alberta’s Endangered Species Conservation Committee, I am proud of the work done to protect Alberta’s fish and wildlife populations.”
Bull trout is a species most residents of the Bow Valley would be familiar with if they follow news on conservation efforts to restore its population in mountain streams. Banff National Park, for example, has recognized the species is in decline and undertaken efforts to restore habitat for them, along with cutthroat trout.
It is also one of several threatened species identified in the Castle region of the Eastern Slopes.
A recovery plan for each of the newly-listed threatened species will be created and put in place with help from stakeholders to protect and rebuild their populations.
