Migratory Birds Convention Act (1994)

Please note: This is Federal Legislation impacting wetlands in Alberta.

Under the Migratory Bird Convention Act no disturbances to nests or nesting birds is allowed during breeding and nesting periods (generally early April to late August in most parts of Canada). Additionally, some bird species have more rigorously legislated requirements under the Species at Risk Act. Industrial activities affect migratory birds by disturbing land (i.e., Building roads, clearing trees), sensory disturbance (i.e., noise), and through emergencies (i.e., fires, spills). If a project is likely to disturb migratory birds or their nests, compensation and recommendations for avoiding and mitigating any disturbances must be included in the compensation plan submitted with the Water Act approval.