TransAlta began a weed harvesting program in 1971 in response to concerns from citizens of increased weed growth.

TransAlta continues to operate weed harvesters on the east end of Lake Wabamun. Under permit from Alberta Environment, TransAlta is harvesting approximately 148 acres off of the main Wabamun Pier in those areas influenced by the warm water discharge from the Wabamun Power Plant.

The harvesters are allowed to cut no closer than 0.5 m from the bottom of the lake.

Once the Wabamun Power Plant is shut down, TransAlta’s impact to the lake through direct discharge of heated water will cease.