Spray lake Sawmills plans to clear-cut log 900 hectares (~833 soccer fields)in 2026 450 hectares in West Bragg Creek and another 450 hectares in Moose Mountain Trail Networks
We're told that this map will be altered after ground proofing and consultation is complete
While we are at the beginning phases and details are limited, we have been informed of the following:
This will not be a FireSmart harvest In 2012, SLS harvested a significant portion of the West Bragg area focused solely on the wildfire threat to Bragg Creek. This harvest will not be conducted under FireSmart principles and may increase Wildfire Hazard.
The size of the harvest is non-negotiable SLS informed us that, while there may be some room for changes to be made, the size of the harvest is not up for negotiation. They will clear cut 900 hectares of forest from this area.
Regrowth in Kananaskis is extremely slow Unlike wetter and more moderate climates, it will take at least 100 years for this area to be mature enough to be sequenced for harvesting again. If it is logged in 2026, we will never see another forest like this again in our lifetimes.
Clear-cuts attract grizzly bears Large clear-cuts result in an increase in grizzly bear populations. Trails with fast moving runners and mountain bikers do not mix with grizzly bears and conflicts often end in tragic results.
This harvest will not follow the 20yr default green-up period Albertan Forest Management Planning - Section 5.9.5 - requires a 20 year default green-up period for adjacent cut blocks. This harvest will take place within 14yrs of the adjacent 2012/2014 harvest. Kananaskis was created first and foremost for watershed integrity, yet despite all the pressures and importance of this landmass, traditional harvest guidelines are not being followed.