Biodiversity

At Canadian Natural, we focus on protecting and reducing disturbance on the habitats where we operate to maintain the regional characteristics and biodiversity of each ecosystem. Biodiversity monitoring is an important component for effective conservation strategies during development, and better reclamation and restoration work after our projects come to an end.

At Horizon, we began biodiversity monitoring before project approval. Regular inspections and remote cameras ensure wildlife activity is monitored and wildlife is deterred from approaching our tailings pond.

Canadian Natural invests in a number of initiatives that support environmental monitoring and research, including aquatics monitoring programs, vegetation cooperation and other issues identified by the communities.

We also serve as sponsors of the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI) and MULTISARS extensive habitat and wildlife study. During 2010 we followed ABMI biodiversity protocols to incorporate our data in a regional information database. To learn more about ABMI’s work click here.

Canadian Natural continues to work with industry and the governments of British Columbia and Alberta to develop boreal caribou management plans that include mitigation measures and integrated access planning between companies.

Horizon Oil Sands’ success is not based solely on how many barrels of oil are produced each day ― it’s also about producing that oil responsibly. Canadian Natural has created the first compensation lake in the oil sands region. Horizon Lake, also known by its Cree name Wāpan Sākahikan, represents a unique alternative to address environmental impacts.

Native fish species are growing and populating the ecosystem. In 2010, arctic grayling and burbot were caught in the lake.The lake supports 10 species of fish, 13 aquatic plant species and is frequented by numerous waterfowl species. The lake and surrounding area are proving to be excellent habitat for wildlife species, such as black bear, moose, white tail deer, wolf, fox and coyote.

Horizon Lake was developed in close consultation with local people and incorporates traditional knowledge in many aspects of its design and development. Aboriginal stakeholders provided key advice on fish assemblage, suitable locations for the planting of medicinal plants and wildlife usage in the area. Today, Horizon Lake is a self-sustaining ecosystem that creates value for our stakeholders.

“The success of Horizon Lake is due in large part to the input Canadian Natural has received from those most familiar with the land,” says Calvin Duane, Manager of Environment for Canadian Natural.

Horizon Lake is a 2009 CAPP Steward of Excellence Award winner. Learn more about how we developed this lake.