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The original item was published from 9/21/2017 11:18:00 AM to 1/1/2018 12:00:01 AM.
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Posted on: September 20, 2017[ARCHIVED] Sheperdia removal in Middle Springs
What is Happening
- From September 25-29 Banff National Park and Town of Banff crews will be removing Shepherdia canadensis bushes from the Middle Springs neighbourhood to reduce the probability for human-bear conflict.
Why
Shepherdia canadensis, also known as buffaloberry or soapberry is an important food source for black and grizzly bears in Banff National Park and the Town of Banff - The Shepherdia plant is dioecious having both male and female plants (bushes). The female bushes are the only ones that produce berries. Female bushes were flagged during berry production season (July through September).
- To reduce the probability of bears using areas with human use, female Shepherdia plants will be removed, reducing the probability that bears will be attracted to the area as a source of natural foods. Male bushes will be left on the landscape.
- Please see map. The red areas represent where female Shepherdia bushes will be removed.
What to expect
- Crews will be using hand tools to remove Sheperdia from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Crews will not work while children are out of school.
- Once vegetation has been cut it will be brought out and hauled to the landfill.
- There will be some auditory disturbances with the use of gas powered machinery.