Radisson Lake (SK083)

Radisson Lake (SK083)

Radisson, Saskatchewan

Site Description

Radisson Lake is located in central Saskatchewan, part way between Saskatoon and North Battleford. It is a saline lake that is subject to large fluctuations in water levels. Grasslands surround most of the lake, with scattered groves of aspen and willow being located throughout the area. The lake is used regularly by migrating geese, swans, ducks, and Whooping Cranes. The beaches at the east end of the bay, and along the northwest shore, support small numbers of Piping Plovers on occasion.

Birds

The globally and nationally endangered Whooping Crane stops at this lake regularly during both the spring and fall migration. Between 1980 and 1990, an average of 4 cranes were present during a total of six spring migration surveys, while during the fall migration (over the same time period) an average of 3 cranes were observed during 16 surveys. Since the worlds migratory Whooping Crane population is currently at 183 individuals (winter 1998/99), any site that regularly supports this species is of significance. Piping Plovers (designated globally vulnerable and nationally endangered) are also present at Radisson Lake, with small numbers nesting on the sandy beaches at the east end of the bay, and along the northwest shore. Between 1977 and 1996, four surveys resulted in an average of 3 plovers being recorded. In addition to globally and nationally threatened species, large numbers of waterfowl stage at Radisson Lake. Tundra Swans are present during both spring and fall migration, with one-day estimates being as high as 2,500 birds (over 1% of the estimated North American population). Also, over 20,000 ducks (several different species) have been recorded, along with over 7,000 Snow Geese.

Conservation Issues

In Saskatchewan, there is an active and ongoing public awareness program to publicize the plight of Whooping Cranes. In addition, the lake is monitored regularly to document the species. The beaches along the northwest shore and east bay are designated as critical Piping Plover habitat under the Provincial Wildlife Habitat Protection Act. This designation protects the shoreline to the high water mark from development.

IBA Criteria Habitats Land Uses Potential or Ongoing Threats Conservation Status

• Whooping Crane4 (max.)
• Snow Goose100,000 (max.)
• Tundra Swan2,500 (max.)
• Waterbirds20,000 (max.)