The controversial logging bridge over the Highwood River in Kananaskis Country has been removed.
Back in August West Fraser Timber started removing the bridge and remediating the area after consulting with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
The controversy arose because proper approval wasn't given to Spray Lake Sawmills, the original company that constructed the bridge. SLS was purchased last year by West Fraser Timber from B.C.
The Highwood River is also a key waterway for Bull trout and Westslope Cutthroat trout. Both are species at risk.
The bridge is now approximately 100 metres back from the river with West Fraser planning to remove it at a later date.
However, the company is currently engaging stakeholders to refine the draft harvest of trees and is forecasting a new bridge to be put in place by the summer of 2025.
The initial plan would've seen 1,100 hectares of forestry logged.
West Fraser plans to have the revised plan for public review in the spring of 2025 with an open house and plans to start harvesting in the fall of 2025.