| The purpose of this Master's Degree Project is to develop a regional cumulative effects management framework for Cold Lake, Alberta to address the environmental impacts of existing and continued development. The framework provides a basis to address cumulative environmental effects that cannot be resolved by a single project proponent or industry acting alone. The framework is based on current best practice of regional cumulative effects management, as determined by a review and evaluation of seven case studies and interviews conducted with professional practitioners.;The framework consists of five components: a Regional Steering Body, EIA Processes, Regional Environmental Monitoring, Regional Information Management, and a Research Body. The Regional Steering Body leads the development and implementation of the framework. EIA Processes contribute to the framework through project-specific efforts and information collected through EIAs that contribute to a regional database. Regional Environmental Monitoring contributes to adaptive management and provides information for a regional database. The Research Body develops specialized knowledge and supports the development of thresholds. Regional Information Management refers to the collection, storage, and sharing of information from environmental monitoring, EIAs, and the Research Body. Sharing data supports comprehensive decision-making.;The framework contributes to regional cumulative effects management through a collaborative multi-stakeholder effort that uses cumulative effects management tools, such as regional access management, integrated landscape management, regional information management, and thresholds. The framework provides a model for regional environmental management that may be applicable to other areas. The framework can improve the practice of CEA by facilitating scoping and providing baseline data. |
