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Protecting our watersheds

Protecting our watersheds is crucial for the health and well-being of our communities and the environment. One such watershed that holds significant importance to the City of Airdrie is Nose Creek. This waterway supports a diverse ecosystem. However, urbanization, agricultural practices and climate change threaten the health and sustainability of Nose Creek and its associated watershed.

It is imperative that we take action to protect this vital resource by implementing responsible land use practices, reducing pollution and waste and promoting conservation efforts. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits that Nose Creek provides and maintain a healthy and vibrant community.

Nose Creek Watershed Partnership

The Nose Creek watershed in Alberta is impacted by urban development and stormwater runoff, affecting water quality and riparian areas. The Nose Creek Watershed Partnership (NCWP) was formed to address these concerns and created the Nose Creek Watershed Water Management Plan (PDF) in 2008. The NCWP is updating the plan to reflect new knowledge and challenges and recommends using an integrated model to measure success. Redevelopment areas require policies to reduce runoff volumes and improve water quality. The NCWP is committed to improving and maintaining watershed conditions for future generations.

The Partnership's goal is to make sure our rivers and streams stay healthy by protecting the plants and animals that live there and making sure there is enough clean water for everyone. Through collaboration and action, the Partnership has had numerous successes in Airdrie, including: increased water conservation, improved water quality, protect riparian habitat and improve biodiversity. The Partnership's current priority is to build and implement a watershed-scale model to support sustainable future land use decisions.

Learn more about the Nose Creek Watershed Partnership

Industrial wastewater monitoring

The industrial monitoring program provides the City of Airdrie a way to monitor, track and document effects of industry on city infrastructure and the environment through sanitary sewer discharge, also known as effluent.

Airdrie businesses generate about 2 million pounds of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) every year, which can cause clogs, unpleasant odours and expensive cleanup costs. To prevent this, the City of Airdrie requires the installation and regular maintenance of grease interceptors.

Learn more about the industrial wastewater monitoring program

Oil and grit separators

Oil and grit separators are used in stormwater management systems to remove pollutants from rainwater runoff. They slow down the flow of water, allowing heavy materials to settle at the bottom and lighter materials to float to the top. This process helps to prevent the buildup of sediment and other pollutants in waterways, promoting environmental sustainability by protecting natural resources and reducing the need for costly remediation efforts.

Learn more about oil and grit separators 

Erosion and sediment control

Erosion and sediment control is a critical component of environmental sustainability. When soil erodes, it not only causes damage to the natural landscape, but it also leads to a loss of fertile topsoil, which is essential for healthy plant growth. Additionally, eroded soil can pollute nearby bodies of water and harm aquatic life.

The City of Airdrie requires that developers implement erosion and sediment control measures, such as installing erosion control blankets, planting vegetation and hydroseeding to prevent soil erosion and the associated negative impacts. These measures help to maintain healthy soils, promote plant growth, and preserve the ecological balance of nearby waterways.

Learn more about erosion and sediment control

Floating islands

Floating islands, man-made structures floating on water, help clean water by absorbing pollutants and nutrients. Native plants and grasses provide habitat for wildlife and restore wetland ecosystems. The roots provide food, shade and cover for aquatic organisms, increase oxygen levels and prevent them from being killed by fish. Overall, floating islands improve environmental sustainability and support biodiversity.

Learn more about floating islands