ABSTRACT: Rapid stabilization of sand dunes in the Middle Sand Hills of Alberta (1938-2005).

CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Abstract

Sand dunes on the northern Great Plains (NGP) provide habitat for many species existing at their northern range limit. Although only 1% of dunes are currently active, several lines of evidence indicate that the number of active dunes was much higher as recently as 200 years ago. Since the early 1900s most active dunes have stabilized by encroachment of the surrounding grassland vegetation. This study combines historical aerial photographs, satellite imagery and GIS to document the rate of stabilization of dunes in the Middle Sand Hills of southeastern Alberta. Active dunes in this area provide habitat for a variety of sensitive species, including the endangered Ord’s kangaroo rat. Therefore, determining historical changes in the level of dune activity allows for an evaluation of habitat changes. Results indicate that the rate of dune stabilization in the Middle Sand Hills is substantially higher than in other sand hills of the southern Canadian prairies. Paradoxically, this region is also the driest portion of the prairies. From 1938-2005 the total area covered by active dunes decreased by 97%. The total number of active sand patches also decreased, as did the average size. Overall, the historical decline of dune activity represents a major transformation of the Middle Sand Hills. When Captain John Palliser travelled through the area in 1859 he noted “miles of burning sand”. Today, only a few fragments of open sand remain, indicating a significant transformation of the landscape in 150 years.

Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology