Located northwest of Drumheller along the Red Deer River valley, the project involved slope reprofiling, riverbank regrading, bench creation, and installation of a new rockfall barrier—within an area of significant ecological sensitivity, including instream habitats and a historic bald eagle nest. PME integrated a biodiversity-focused approach throughout every phase of construction.
Wildlife sweeps identified mammal dens, snake hibernacula, and amphibian overwintering sites, allowing habitats to be protected or carefully relocated. During instream work, fish salvages, turbidity monitoring, and temporary silt curtains were used—timed outside spawning periods to protect aquatic species. Erosion control blankets, sediment traps, and staged construction sequencing further reduced impacts on soil, water, and vegetation.
Construction overlapped the breeding bird window, but PME’s Wildlife Lead maintained strict equipment setbacks and activity restrictions near the eagle nest. Continuous monitoring confirmed the eagles remained undisturbed, while other species thrived in restored habitats.
Despite challenging weather and schedule pressures, the project was completed without lasting environmental impact—demonstrating PME’s commitment to proactive planning, hands-on stewardship, and the successful balance of infrastructure development with ecological preservation.