Woodlands County is getting ready to do some logging out by the Whitecourt Airport.
The County was given a court order to remove all the cover within the fenced airport lands where animals such as deer could find shelter. It was feared that deer could run out onto the runway and create problems.
The County carried that out in 2019 and 2020.
In 2022, County administration wants to break the ground, cultivate it and seed forage. This will prevent the trees from re-growing and the deer from coming back.
The estimated cost of the project is around $85,000, with an extra $40,000 to burn the brush piles.
In order to cover the costs, administration has found approximately 238 acres of trees near the airport that can be logged for an estimated revenue of $100,000.
Woodlands County Council had some questions about the proposal.
Councillor Alan Deane wanted to know why it costs $40,000 to burn brush piles.
Administration replied it is because they need heavy equipment on site to tend the fires.
Councillor Jeremey Wilhelm asked how they came up with an estimated revenue of $100,000.
Administration said that it is based on current lumber prices.
Some councillors expressed concerns about how this may affect air travel, and whether the lack of a natural windbreak may make it more difficult for aircraft to land.
Administration assured them they are doing this on the recommendation of Nav Canada. Nav Canada is the organization that oversees air travel safety in Canada.
With their concerns abated, County Council passed the motion. The project will now be going out to tender.
