The detection and monitoring of wood bison within specified areas will allow Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (EPA) to: monitor bison movement, assess potential for interactions between diseased and non-diseased bison, and undertake appropriate response actions when required.
EPA requires fixed-wing aircraft services to undertake flights to search specified surveillance zone for evidence of bison presence (tracks or observations) and relocate radio-collared bison within northern Alberta. Flight schedules would range from once per month to every 2 weeks and are
dependent on local conditions and findings. The pilot will work with contract manager throughout the surveillance window to optimize search timing.
Depending on pilot experience, this work may be done solely by the pilot or with additional employees or contractors on-board. Flight crews will record the location, observation type (tracks or animals) and relative age (old, new) of all bison observations, including number of all bison observed. Observed signs of bison presence (or suspected presence) will be investigated, confirmed
and located. Group sizes will be recorded when safe and practical to do so but location information is critical.
Without accurate bison sightings or location information, appropriate management response actions are not possible. Pilots with experience surveying and relocating radio- collared bison or other herding ungulates are essential to reduce stress on bison, provide accurate locations, maintain
search efficiencies while ensuring the safe operation of the aircraft.
In addition, wood bison throughout northern Alberta have been fitted with radio-collars to monitor their movements and survival. EPA requires fixed-wing aircraft support to locate and document radio-collared bison using VHF collar transmissions. This work will require the successful company to supply telemetry equipment and mounts for the exterior of the aircraft, and an appropriate receiver integrated into the aircraft’s internal avionics system.
The successful contractor must have demonstrated experience conducting aerial radio- telemetry and have all necessary equipment to undertake telemetry-based surveys. During radio-collar relocation surveys, all bison observed will be located and counted, and if possible, classified by age (adult/calf).
Flight frequency will range from every two to four weeks during winter months, weather dependent. Some flights may occur during spring to fall as situation allow. Proponents are responsible for determining appropriate staging and logistics. In discussion with EPA staff, an approximate flightpath through the surveillance zone (Attachment 5) will be selected that selects optimal bison habitats and flight efficiencies.
