The treasured Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the source of 90% of Southern Alberta’s water, face unprecedented threats. Extractive exploitation has pushed these vital headwater ecosystems to the brink, jeopardizing our water security, wildlife habitats, and the breathtaking natural beauty that defines this land.
At this critical juncture, our collective actions can alter this narrative. For everyone who has marvelled at the rocky peaks, felt the fragrant forest breeze, appreciated the cold, clean cobbled rivers, and values all the beings that call these slopes home, it is time to rise and defend them.
This ecological and hydrological crisis directly impacts our daily lives. As the integrity of the mountain headwaters is compromised, we are increasingly vulnerable to severe droughts, floods, and fires that threaten drinking water, agriculture, and ecological stability.
We must protect and invest in restoring the Eastern Slopes to enhance water retention, soil health, and ecosystem resilience through ecological landscape management principles. This approach focuses on decentralized, nature-based solutions that work with natural systems to improve watershed health, soil health, biodiversity and vegetation cover, ultimately creating a more resilient and sustainable environment.
This pivotal moment demands bold leadership and actions that reflect the collective will of Alberta’s people. By signing this open letter, we commit to taking personal and collective actions to ensure the protection and sustainable management of our Eastern Slopes.
Join us in safeguarding a legacy for generations to come, ensuring that the majesty of our Eastern slopes is preserved and cherished, not exploited and forgotten, to the detriment of future generations.
The mission of the Save Our Slopes campaign is to protect and restore the Eastern Slopes of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains by promoting sustainable land and water use practices, raising awareness about environmental challenges, and engaging communities in conservation efforts.
The Eastern Slopes are critical for biodiversity, water supply, recreation, and cultural heritage. They provide essential habitat for numerous wildlife species, act as a natural water filter and storage system, and support recreational activities that benefit the local economy.
The main threats include industrial development (such as mining and logging), unsustainable recreational activities, climate change, and invasive species. These activities can lead to habitat destruction, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
The new water paradigm is a comprehensive approach to water management that emphasizes the protection and restoration of natural water cycles, the integration of scientific and traditional knowledge, and the promotion of sustainable water use practices to ensure long-term water security for ecosystems and communities.
Save Our Slopes plans to restore the Eastern Slopes through reforestation projects, erosion control measures, invasive species management, and the restoration of natural waterways. These efforts will be supported by community involvement, scientific research, and collaboration with various stakeholders.
You can get involved by volunteering for restoration projects, participating in community events, donating to support our initiatives, and spreading awareness about the importance of protecting the Eastern Slopes. Visit our website for more information on how to join our efforts.
Local communities play a crucial role in the campaign by participating in restoration projects, sharing their knowledge and experiences, advocating for sustainable practices, and helping to monitor and protect the natural environment. Community engagement is key to the success of our conservation efforts.
Industrial development, such as mining and logging, can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, water pollution, and the disruption of natural water cycles. These impacts threaten the health of ecosystems and the services they provide, such as clean water and recreation opportunities.
Successful restoration projects include reforestation efforts that have improved wildlife habitats, erosion control measures that have stabilized soils, and the removal of invasive species that have allowed native plants to thrive. These projects demonstrate the positive impact of concerted conservation efforts.
The Save Our Slopes campaign addresses climate change by promoting practices that enhance the resilience of ecosystems, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and sustainable land use. These actions help to sequester carbon, protect water resources, and support biodiversity, making the Eastern Slopes more resilient to climate impacts.