Protecting the alpine environment.

The alpine and subalpine habitats that the helicat industry operates in are naturally sensitive to disturbance to due to climate (they spend a long period under snowpack and have a very short growing season) and shallow soils. In addition, riparian and wetland habitats are also sensitive to human disturbance. In winter these habitats are protected by snow, but any summer activities such as guiding, trail building, glading, and general vegetation maintenance have the potential to impact native vegetation.

The vision.

The vision for vegetation management is for operators to be conscious of potential ecological impact on vegetation and operate in a manner that conserves habitat so native species can continue to thrive.

Healthy practices for sensitive species.

It is important to be aware that species at risk can be found in all tenures. Not only are subalpine, wetland, and riparian areas sensitive, but they may also contain species that are threatened, endangered, becoming extinct, or at risk of falling into one of these categories. One prominent species at risk found in many tenures is whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis).

Non-native plant species (or invasive plants) have the potential to compromise the integrity of and displace native plant communities and species. According to the International Union of the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), invasive species are the second-greatest threat contributing to species extinctions worldwide.  Invasive plant species can dramatically change the composition and function of native habitats, and contribute to biodiversity loss. Invasive species not only have an environmental cost, but also a social and economic cost.

By careful consideration, operations can reduce any impact on native, endemic vegetation in sensitive habitats, including species at risk, and reduce and prevent the spread of invasive plant species, which can provide further negative effects to native plant communities.