A Legacy at Risk
History has shaped Nose Creek. We need to protect it’s future.
2 MILLION YEARSA Glacial Past
Between 2 million and 20,000 years ago, the Nose Creek valley and much of Alberta was covered with massive glaciers. As they melted, large boulders called glacial erratics were left behind. Many of them can be found in the Nose Creek valley that include the famous Split Rock in West Nose Creek Park, and our society namesake on the east side of Coventry.
14,000 YEARSThe First Peoples
Humans began migrating to Canada from Siberia around 14,000 years ago. Those that settled in the Nose Creek valley would be known primarily as the Blackfoot Confederacy, comprised of the Kainai, Siksikia, and Pikani nations. They were nomadic tribes, following and hunting herds of buffalo.
1883European Settlers
Settlers from Europe began arriving in the Nose Creek area in hordes once the Canadian Pacific Railway reached what is now Calgary, with villages developing in modern Crossfield and Airdrie. The cattle and farming industries in these areas caused Calgary’s growth to steadily increase in the coming years.
1906 → 1955Population Spike
The Calgary area saw a massive population growth between 1906-1955, jumping from about 12,000 to 200,000 people. This rapid urbanization saw Nose Creek being encroached upon, as it was often used as a dumping ground for waste from agriculture and industrial activities.
Present DayUrbanization
The growth and urbanization of Calgary has encroached to close to Nose Creek that the structure of the creek is being negatively affected. Native wildlife are slowly disappearing, the water quality is dropping, and storm water outfalls are eroding the banks of the creek.
Left unchecked, Nose Creek is losing biodiversity, turning from a vital ecosystem into a stagnant, eroded waterway. But it’s not too late. Dedicated community members, organizations, and volunteers have already made strides to reverse some of the damage through habitat restoration, pollution control, and public awareness.
Every action counts, your voice and efforts can help Nose Creek recover and thrive once again.
Imagine Nose Creek with it’s waters restored, clear waters winding through lush vegetation, native birds and wildlife returning to the banks, and families enjoying a healthy, thriving natural space. This vision is possible with your support. Get involved with the Nose Creek Preservation Society, or join other local initiatives to monitor water quality, plant native vegetation, and raise awareness. Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word, your contributions can make a tangible difference.
Together we can ensure that Nose Creek remains a legacy of natural beauty and resiliance for generations