Frank Lake
Frank Lake is a prairie lake with amazingly diverse bird-life as well as stunning views of the nearby mountains. The Lake is quickly becoming a birding hot spot for birdwatchers from High River, Calgary and beyond.
Directions: Frank Lake is Located East of High River, From the High River overpass on Highway 2, proceed east on Highway 23 for 5. 1 km. There is a turnoff on the south side of the road, marked by a watchable wildlife sign, that will take you to the main access gate and parking lot. During open hours, which seem to vary, vehicles can proceed through this gate and continue for 1.6 km to the viewing blind. The Walk: The Frank Lake wetland is comprised of three basins totaling over 3000 acres of wetland with over 1,700 acres of managed upland habitat. Over 190 plant species, 190 bird species and 16 mammal species have been recorded at the lake, including many that are regionally or provincially rare in status. There are many trails around the lake and the open treeless prairie allows for easy exploring. During open hours, vehicles can proceed through the access gate and continue for 1.6 km to the viewing blind. |
A few of the bird species that can be seen at Frank Lake include: Tundra Swan,Trumpeter Swan, Northern Pintail, Franklin's Gull, Ring-billed gull, Common Tern, Short-eared Owl, Eared Grebe, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and Black-necked Stilt, Pelicans, and the White Faced Ibis among many, many others.
History: In the past the lake periodically suffered through years of being completely dry, and years of being flooded. Ducks Unlimited in a partnership with Industry and the town of High River have now put systems in place to ensure the lake is permanently flooded, which has improved wildlife habitat. Measures include water control structures as well as the building of a pipeline from High River to channel treated waste-water from the town of High River and a local beef processing plant. Other efforts include Nesting boxes, nesting platforms, and rock islands that have been built around the lake to encourage nesting and improve bird habitat. Frank Lake is thought to be the most important wetland in southwestern Alberta for waterfowl and other water birds. Other Attractions Nearby: The Town of High River, Star Trek Starship and Museum in Vulcan |