Balancing development with protecting historical and cultural landscapes
In June 1915, Edmonton faced a devastating flood. The North Saskatchewan River swelled by 13 metres, engulfing businesses and homes, marking a pivotal moment in the city's history. Before this catastrophe, the river's edge was dominated by industry, far from the recreational haven it is today.
Recognizing the need for change, the city enlisted Frederick Gage Todd to envision a park space that would meet the future needs of its citizens. Todd's vision transcended mere urban planning as it was a call to preserve and cherish the natural beauty of the river valley for generations.
The flood served as a critical wake-up call. Embracing Todd's vision, the Government of Alberta established the River Valley Park System, transforming Edmonton's urban landscape into a vibrant ribbon of green. Today, the park system is now 22 times the size of New York's Central Park.
However, the creation of the River Valley Park System had unintended consequences. The 1915 flood and subsequent developments initially left the historic Rossdale Fort Cemetery and Traditional Indigenous Burial Ground unprotected. These sites, integral to our collective heritage, were overlooked in the wake of progress.
Acknowledging this oversight in the River Valley Park System expansion is crucial as it reminds us of the need to balance development with the protection of our historical and cultural landscapes. https://www.edmontoncommonwealthwalkway.com/river/the-great-flood-of-1915
Male and female belted kingfishers both fierce protectors of their nests
Jeffrey Gammon photo
The belted kingfisher (megaceryle alcyon) is a large, conspicuous water kingfisher, native to North America. It is a stocky, medium-sized bird that measures between 28–35 cm (11–14 in) in length with a wingspan of between 48–58 cm (19–23 in). The adult female averages slightly larger than the adult male and is more brightly coloured. This means that the kingfisher shows reverse sexual dimorphism.
The bird is often seen perched prominently on trees, posts, or other suitable watchpoints close to water before plunging in headfirst after its fish prey. It also eats amphibians, molluscs, small crustaceans, insects, small mammals, small birds, reptiles and berries. While flying about its habitat, the kingfisher frequently emits a characteristic rattling call. Accordingly, a small group of belted kingfishers is known as a rattle, concentration, or kerfuffle.
A fun fact about this bird is that it nests in a horizontal tunnel made in a riverbank or sand bank and excavated by both parents. The female lays five to eight eggs and both adults share the task of incubating the eggs and feeding the young. During the breeding season, males may also exhibit a strong degree of territoriality in the immediate vicinity of their nest, chasing away other birds and predators alike. https://inaturalist.ca/taxa/2548-Megaceryle-alcyon
Rossdale rezoning, renewal, and green economy projects need your input
The city is offering some opportunities to inform municipal decisions about rezoning applications, renewals, and economic growth. Please only answer surveys from the municipality where you live.
The first opportunity to inform municipal decisions relates to the Rossdale Centre Rezoning. The City of Edmonton is considering an application to rezone the Rossdale Brewery area, along 100 Street NW between 98 Avenue NW and Rossdale Road NW. If approved, the application would preserve the Rossdale Brewery while allowing development around it, including up to 17-storey buildings and up to 490 dwellings. Residents can contribute to a discussion board until March 16.
The second opportunity has to do with the Rossdale Neighbourhood Renewal. The City of Edmonton is planning a renewal of Rossdale, including roads, sidewalks, and lights. Residents can let planners know how they move around and experience Rossdale by completing an online survey until March 23.
The final one is in regard to a Green Industries Questionnaire. The City of Edmonton seeks feedback from businesses that contribute to the local green economy, which will be used to understand the state of that economy and how the city can support growth. This survey will be open until April 30.
Links to the respective surveys here https://edmonton.taproot.news/briefs/2025/03/06/calls-for-public-engagement-rossdale-rezoning-renewal-green-economy
March 6 Issue
Julia shares “Love the artwork.”
Random Thoughts Passing Scene by Jesse Sherburne, ETS Centennial Garage https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/random-thoughts-passing-scene
Comment or Contributions
Please note articles may not reflect the position of NSRVCS. River Valley News is meant to be a clearinghouse for the variety of opinions and ideas about Edmonton’s River Valley.
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