Sandy Lake Wilderness Area

A consultant was retained by the County to assess the existing site conditions including the suitability for development. The completion of a Biophysical Assessment (BA) will describe the significant natural, cultural and historical features, and landscape context. It will document vegetation, wetlands, riparian condition, wildlife, species of conservation concern, surface water, contours, soils, landforms, and trails/tracks.  Based on this assessment development opportunities and constraints will be described. The consultant will assess and prioritize recreational needs of the surrounding community based on the public engagement results. 

Status: Complete Early Fall 2021

This phase forms a framework for a preferred concept design for the wilderness area. The project team will undertake a detailed evaluation of the biophysical, infrastructure, historical/cultural inventory, relevant policy documents, as well as public and stakeholder engagement outcomes. A preliminary site development program statement that establishes the extent of acceptable uses and possible facilities/infrastructure will be drafted. Opportunities and constraints mapping that summarizes the context and development of a Framework Plan will help establish landscape themes and possible land management directions.  

The County will then bring development concept alternatives that indicate choices and directions for management zones, site access, general site circulation, uses/activities, buffers, and infrastructure options. 

The project team will engage the pubic once again to identify a preferred concept approach. Planning for this public engagement is currently underway.  

Status: In-Progress Early Winter 2021 - 2022 (We are Here)

Draft management principles, goals, and strategies for vegetation, wildlife and habitat, hydrology and water resources, access, safety and human use to conserve the site into the future will be developed based on work completed in previous phases and the preferred concept. Site-specific benchmarks will be included for the sustainability/management plan as well as an implementation strategy and cost estimates. Opportunities for regional partnerships will be explored. Prior to Council review and approval, the concept and management plan will be presented to the public for final review and input. 

Status: Not-Started Winter 2021 - 2022

Based on Councils direction, administration will include the development of park features in the annual capital budget process and continue to pursue grant funding.  

Status: Not-Started