This spring and summer, Energy Alberta is carrying out a series of environmental field studies to support planning for the proposed Peace River Nuclear Power Project. These studies are an important step in understanding the local environment and gathering the information needed to plan responsibly.

The data collected - alongside traditional knowledge shared by Indigenous Nations and Communities - will help guide Project design, protect the natural environment and meet Canada’s rigorous regulatory requirements.

What Are These Field Studies?

Field studies are on-the-ground assessments that help build a clear picture of the local landscape. Crews will be working in and around the Project areas to better understand:

• Water systems (both surface water and groundwater).  

• Fish and fish habitat.  

• Local wildlife, including Species at Risk.  

• Air quality and weather patterns.  

• Soil conditions and terrain.  

• Vegetation, wetlands, and riparian areas.  

• Archaeological and historical resources.  

This work will support preparation of the Project’s Impact Statement and help identify potential effects, develop mitigation measures, and inform long-term environmental monitoring plans.

What You May Notice in the Area

If you’re in the Peace Region, you may see field crews out on the land or waterways between April and September. Their work may include:

• Boats on the river collecting water and fish data.  

• Survey crews using equipment to study land and soil conditions.  

• Drones capturing aerial information.  

• Small, temporary monitoring devices (like acoustic recorders).  

All activities are carried out by trained professionals, often alongside Indigenous Monitors. Crews follow strict protocols to minimize disruption to the environment and nearby communities. Land access is always arranged in advance with landowners.

When and Where Work Is Happening

May - August: Aquatics Studies

Crews will be studying the Peace River and nearby watercourses to understand:

• Water levels, temperature and flow.  

• Water quality.  

• Fish populations and habitat.  

• River conditions using hydroacoustic surveys.  

May - September: Wildlife and Archaeology

Work in this period includes:

• Wildlife surveys, including monitoring Species at Risk.  

• Retrieval and relocation of wildlife monitoring devices.  

• Foot surveys to identify important habitats.  

• Identification of historical and archaeological resources in the area.  

June - August: Soils and Vegetation

Field teams will:

• Collect soil samples for laboratory analysis.  

• Study terrain and land stability.  

• Assess vegetation types and soil conditions across the study area.  

June - August: Wetlands and Plant Life

Crews will focus on:

• Identifying and classifying wetlands.  

• Mapping riparian (riverbank) areas.  

• Conducting rare plant surveys, including Species at Risk.  

• Supporting ecological land classification.  

June - September: Air Quality and Visual Studies

This work includes:

• Installing and monitoring air quality and weather stations.  

• Collecting local atmospheric data through regular site visits.  

• Taking panoramic photos to document current site conditions.  

Why This Work Matters

These studies are a critical part of responsible Project planning. They help answer key questions:

• What does the environment look like today?  

• What sensitive areas need to be protected?  

• How can potential effects be avoided or reduced?  

By understanding these factors early, Energy Alberta can design the Project to minimize environmental effects and ensure strong safeguards are in place from the start.

The Role of Indigenous Knowledge

A key part of this work is collaboration with Indigenous Nations and Communities. This includes:

• Supporting Indigenous-led studies.  

• Incorporating traditional land use and knowledge.  

• Including Indigenous Monitors in fieldwork.  

This approach helps ensure that Indigenous rights, values and knowledge systems are respected and reflected in project planning.

Looking Ahead

Field studies are one component of a much larger process. The information gathered now will help shape future Project design, regulatory review and ongoing engagement with communities.

As work continues through the season, Energy Alberta remains focused on transparency, environmental stewardship and building a Project that reflects the priorities of the Peace Region.