Bragg Creek’s Natural Assets – Yours to Protect
“An environment cannot be all things to all people, all of the time” Brad Stelfox.
Assets like trees, wetlands and ecosystems aren’t just beautiful – they perform multiple critical functions. A single tree for instance, can offer shade, prevent soil erosion, absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, support wildlife and enhance mental well-being for people who simply enjoy its presence. These assets don’t have a singular value but offer a multitude of benefits that serve the community and environment in different ways.
Understanding this is key as we face a forthcoming revision to the Area Structure Plan (ASP) for Bragg Creek hamlet and expansion area. It is VITAL – now more than ever – for us to come together as a community to understand the natural assets we have, the functions they provide, those functions we prioritize and how we intend to protect them. For example, a grouping of trees on a golf course may be valued for both their challenge as obstacles and offering a pleasing view scape, whereas a stand of trees in a natural area may be deemed an essential resource for preventing soil erosion and protecting the water table. These decisions will guide future policies on preservation.
A healthy, functioning ecosystem is a vital asset—so much so that terms like “natural assets” and “natural infrastructure” have become part of asset management, helping to quantify their worth alongside roads and other manmade infrastructure. Recognize, however, that an inventory of natural assets alone is not a conservation plan. Knowing what we have is only the first step. Prioritizing and implementing policies to protect what we value is crucial for long- term sustainability.
Valuing nature goes beyond assigning a dollar figure. While we can calculate the financial value of stormwater retention versus a man-made solution for a wetland, how do we assess the value of cultural significance, rural character, or breathtaking viewscapes? To a tourism operator, a tree might represent more than just money; perhaps its an irreplaceable element central in their successful business.
Its for these reasons that on October 23rd, 2024, BCW is hosting “Bragg Creek’s Natural Assets – Yours to Protect”, a community event facilitated by Guy Greenaway of the Corvus Centre. Guy will guide us through these concepts and lead discussions on how to identify and preserve the natural assets we all enjoy and depend on. This event builds on a previous BCW presentation by guest Dr. Brad Stelfox, who spoke to a Bragg Creek audience about land use and sustainability.
Following this event, a report will be produced to prepare our community for Rocky View County’s upcoming public engagement process on updating the ASP. This is a crucial moment for Bragg Creek as decisions made in this plan will shape the future of growth, development and tourism in our area.
We, as residents, have a responsibility to advocate for the protection of our natural assets, working to ensure their long-term conservation alongside governing bodies. By doing so, we safeguard not only the beauty of Bragg Creek but the essential services our natural surroundings provide.
Bragg Creek Wild
www.braggcreekwild.ca
braggcreekwild@gmail.com – 403 200 9961
People and wildlife living in community
