Group wants global view in protecting northeast swale

A group trying to protect the northeast swale, a biologically diverse wetland that stretches north from the grasslands near Saskatoons Silverspring neighbourhood, will be at city hall today.

The Northeast Swalewatchers are trying to win allies in their effort to protect the wetland. They are trying to protect the integrity of the swale, under pressure from a growing city.

"It's a major wetland in the area with duck nests and animals, it's a breeding ground, a hunting ground for all the animals and it contains some rare plants," said swalewatcher Richard Huziak.

New neighbourhoods, roads and bridges are planned for the wetland region.

Huziak's says the group is generally satisfied with the work thats being done to preserve the swale, but he wants planners to take a global view of the region, considering the impact of all developments, rather than assessing each project individually.

"It would be nice to see these plans work together as a group, and the city to work together as a unit to develop the swale," said Huziak. "It is a very special area and preserving it in its pristine state is very important."

Huziak will make his case today at a meeting of the Saskatoon Environmental Advisory Committee.