Shunda Lake Trail Upgrades

Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) planned trail and amenity upgrades at Fish Lake Provincial Recreation Area, 2km east of Nordegg, Alberta. AEP was concerned with the amount of unsanctioned lakeshore access causing degradation of shoreline and riparian habitat. Foot traffic and boat-launching outside of designated areas was also contributing to bank erosion – raising concerns over trail stability. Plans were established to address the problems of trail accessibility, erosion, and protection of sensitive shoreline areas.

The project activities included:

• Danger tree and other vegetation removal within proposed trail alignments
• Construction/renovation of ~800m of accessible trail
• Removing, salvaging, and replacing site furnishings (e.g. benches, waste bins, signage)
• Enhancing wayfinding and signage to encourage only designated trail use and lake access
• Decommissioning of rogue trails and unsanctioned lake access points
• Restoration and top-seeding of disturbed areas with native seed mix

Cabin was contracted by AEP to conduct the trail upgrades, and ensure environmental values of the site were protected during construction. To ensure appropriate mitigation measures were taken, Cabin worked with AEP to develop emergency response and environmental protection plans pre-construction. By following these plans, the crew was able to safely build an impressive natural trail system that will be sustainable for long-term use. Additionally, the crew minimized environmental disturbance throughout construction, avoiding sensitive areas and protecting important wildlife trees from destruction.