Input sought on vision for Lower Athabasca Region

The Lower Athabasca Regional Advisory Council presented its advice as a vision document on which government will seek public comment before developing a draft regional plan for the area. “The vision document provides advice on economic, environmental and community needs in Lower Athabasca,” said Mel Knight, Minister of Sustainable Resource Development, responsible for implementing the Land-use Framework. “With Albertans’ input on the vision, government can develop a regional plan that creates the balance Albertans are looking for. It is essential to set the right direction for conservation and development for Albertans, for the environment, and for a world that is watching how Alberta develops its natural resources.” Advice to the Government of Alberta Rega rding a Vision for the Lower Athabasca Region provides recommendations on economic growth, land conservation, air and water thresholds, and human development needs in the region; as guided by a terms of reference. Recognizing the oil sands are a primary industry for this region, the terms of reference directed the council to consider options for addressing industry growth while also looking to increase conservation areas, and develop options for enhanced recreation and tourism. The vision is based on 18 months of discussion and more than 100 stakeholder submissions. It also reflects the broad expertise of the Regional Advisory Council, whose 17 members included representatives from agriculture, municipalities, environmental interests, energy, forestry, First Nations and Métis. Read More