Species at risk engagements

Overview

Most of Alberta’s species of plants and animals are healthy and secure. However, a small number of species are either naturally rare or are now in trouble because of human activities or natural processes.

Alberta species at risk recovery plans establish a basis for cooperation among government, industry, conservation groups, landowners, indigenous communities and other stakeholders to ensure these species are restored or maintained for future generations of Albertans.

The development of species at risk recovery plans involves:

• Working with a combination of internal experts, species experts, and stakeholders in developing a draft recovery plan. We provide opportunities for Albertans, Indigenous communities and stakeholders to give their feedback during the recovery planning process.
• Reviewing and updating the plans based on the feedback received.
• Posting the draft plan online for public comment for at least 30 days.
• Following public review, the Alberta’s Endangered Species Conservation Committee reviews the draft plans and provides recommendations to the Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.
• Approved plans are published as a provincial government recovery plan.

Recovery plans include:

• an analysis of species’ distribution and population trends, the important threats, and whether current conservation actions are working
• a recovery section that outlines goals, objectives, associated broader strategies, and specific priority actions required to maintain or recover threatened or endangered species

Alberta’s provincial recovery program is governed by Alberta's Wildlife Act and strives to align with:

• the federal and provincial Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk
• the National Framework for the Conservation of Species at Risk
• the federal Species at Risk Act