Most of Butcher Creek Natural Area (NA) is located on an old floodplain of the Red Deer River, about 15 km southwest of the Dickson Dam, and is an excellent example of riverine habitat.
- Map of the Area
- Other Information
- Biophysical Observations (via iNaturalist.ca)
- Site Statistics
- References
- Further Reading
Map of the Area
Any maps and map views are for general information only. Do not rely on them for navigation or to determine legal boundaries.
Other Information
DESCRIPTION. Most of Butcher Creek Natural Area is located on an old floodplain and is an excellent example of riverine habitat. With vegetation ranging from moist, moss-covered spruce woods to dry open meadows, the area contains a wide range of communities. Alder and willow shrubland thickets occupy wet depressions and abandoned channels, islands, and river shoreline. In drier areas, aspen and balsam poplar forests flourish.
VISITING. Further information about visiting the site is available from Red Deer River Naturalists who promote several hikes in the area, some easy, some wet and difficult [1].
OILSPILL. In 2012, oil from a 50-year-old pipeline leaked into the surrounding area including the NA [2].
Biophysical Observations (via iNaturalist.ca)
Are you a member of iNaturalist.ca? It is free to join and you can help nature by making observations with your smart phone.
If there are no or only a few observations, how about visiting and adding some? While there, complete a site inspection report (but read the Site Inspections terms and conditions first).
Observations & Projects for this Natural Area
- Observations for this Natural Area.
- No iNaturalist Projects.
Site Statistics
| Site Name | Butcher Creek |
| Site Type | Natural Area |
| Subtype | Order-in-council (OC) |
| Natural Region(s) | Dry Mixedwood |
| O.C. No. (Land Ref. Manual) | 531/87 |
| PASite ID (Map Ref #) | 269 |
| Site # (Parks Website) | 429 |
| Total Area | 205.46 ha. (507.69 ac.) |
| Steward-Status | |
| Recreation Activities | hiking – front country, wildlife viewing |
| IUCN | II |
| Operated By | Parks Division |
| Notes and Comments |
References
The following links are provided as a courtesy but are not verified or endorsed by SAPAA. Clicking on the link will cause you to leave the SAPAA website. Primary source of information is: Government of Alberta – Information & Facilities – Butcher Creek Natural Area | Alberta Parks (2022-02-13).
- Red Deer River Naturalists – BUTCHER CREEK NATURAL AREA
- CBC News – Plains Midstream charged in Red Deer River pipeline spill.
SAPAA 
Working with other groups to protect, enjoy and educate about Alberta’s protected areas is critical. This page is an example of this cross-representation from the Red Deer River Naturalists. Have not been to Butcher Creek but definitely on the list (amongst MANY others!).
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