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
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].
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 