Summer 2024

Newsletter Archive

On the Path to a CABIN Reference Model

Using GIS processes to select potential reference sites for CABIN monitoring in the East Slopes

The Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring Network (CABIN) overseen by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), plays a pivotal role in assessing water quality across stream ecosystems. Using standardized methods based on benthic invertebrate species composition, CABIN offers a reliable way to detect human-induced impacts.

Currently, Alberta's East Slopes region, outside of the mountain parks, lacks a reference model. Over recent months, we worked with the Oldman Watershed Council and other local groups forming the Eastern Slopes Collaborative to address this gap by identifying potential reference sites for sampling. Leveraging GIS expertise, we identified candidate watersheds, excluding those affected by recent fires or near pollution sources impacting streams. These watersheds were classified based on Human Activity Gradient (HAG) scores, ranging from potentially highly impacted (Class 10) to likely pristine (Class 1), giving watershed groups flexibility to select sites that are "as pristine as possible" within their regions.

Moving forward, participating watershed groups will refine this list using local insights to determine sites for sampling in late summer and fall 2024. This collaborative effort aims to establish a robust reference model for the East Slopes region, enhancing the ability to monitor and safeguard water quality effectively.