This is blog #8 in our “Understanding Drought” series. Are we “back to normal” after this summer? Find out!
Alberta has more native pollinators than you think! A whole host of solitary bees, social bees, wasps, and many more animals all pollinate our native and crop flowers. Many of them overwinter underground or in hollow stems, so a few small landscaping decisions this fall can provide crucial habitat.
Reducing our outdoor water use has the biggest potential to cut down on our water bills. Read on to discover the WXYZ’s of conserving water outside.
This is blog #7 in our “Understanding Drought” series where we answer the question on everyone’s mind: Are we still in a drought?
Southern Alberta relies on intensive agriculture and livestock production. When you drive through the countryside, what do you see? Lots of people want to know that their food is safe - but how much attention do we pay to what happens on our fields? There is real innovation happening in the Oldman watershed - and here's a story about hemp use and a special kind of recycling - another #SAWC17 project!
There has been a lot of talk about the road paving to the Castle and the installation of water lines - along the lines of this development can't be good for the watershed. We are THRILLED that so many people are beginning to consider the impact of development! Here's the inside scoop, and the science to base your arguments on ...
New guest blogpost by Quentin Stevick! Now is your chance to have a say in how the AB gov't will invest in energy efficiency programs. Energy Efficiency Alberta is a new agency that will promote and support energy efficiency and energy systems for homes, businesses and communities. Quentin Stevick tells his thoughts on energy efficiency, the current system and what should change from a rural perspective that will benefit all Albertans...
Book The Date JULY 26th! Learn about the science and history of Waterton Lakes National Parks... topics include the threats facing salamanders, cross-boundary work on climate change, the parks’ lesser-known past and how remote cameras are used to track wildlife movement. Experts will discuss aquatic resources, landscapes, history and wildlife.
Looking for some great opportunities to volunteer or learn more about environment and sustainability? Consider attending some of the many events being hosted by Environment Lethbridge for Environment Week 2016!
Environment Week runs from June 5th-June 11th, with tons of free activities for everyone....
Join Us! This is your opportunity to catch up with friends, make new ones and have fun learning about OWC's accomplishments over the past year! Interactive games and unique door prizes top off this free event in Lethbridge! Register today!!
Imagine knowing that it was your fault, that something you thought was insignificant cost someone their home, their life or the life of a loved one. When venturing out into the backcountry this spring, remember that more than half of all wildfires in Canada are human caused and do your part to insure that human isn’t you.
By now, we’ve all seen the horrible devastation caused by forest fires in the community of Fort McMurray and area. Extremely dry conditions have set the stage for similar blazes across the province, leading the Government of Alberta to implement a province-wide fire ban. This ban is not to be taken lightly, as even a small oversight can escalate into tragedy.
Right now valuable resources are needed to deal with the situation in the Fort McMurray area and new fire outbreaks would put a significant strain on everyone involved. In this difficult time, we must all do our part to reduce the risk of forest fires in every possible situation.
The Provincial Government issued a province-wide fire ban as of May 5th. Under this ban, the following are
PROHIBITED:
Use of ALL wood, briquette and propane or natural gas fires
Patio heaters, turkey fryers and Tiki torches
PERMITTED:
Liquid or gas fueled stoves and BBQs that meet the CSA or UL standards
Liquid or gas fueled lanterns (enclosed flame) that meet CSA or UL standards
While some camping appliances are still permitted, it is important to use caution during any activity that may increase the risk of wildfires.
All Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) users are encouraged to practice extreme caution when heading out this season as the fire hazard in our watershed is already high. Remember that if you are found responsible for the start of a wildfire you may be charged under the Forest and Prairie Protection Act and be held responsible for the cost of extinguishing the fire.
Here are some tips from the Alberta Government to prevent starting a wildfire while enjoying the backcountry.
Before you ride, ensure that there is no debris build up
Always carry a small fire extinguisher and collapsible shovel to put out small fires
Wash your OHV regularly at a commercial car-wash or your home
Remember that you are required to have a spark arrester on your OHV
Alberta Fire Bans by phone: 1-866-394-3473
Alberta Wildfire App for Android and IPhone
If you spot a wildfire or see an out-of-control fire call 310-FIRE (toll-free) anywhere in Alberta.
Thank you to the Crowsnest Pass Quad Squad, Southern Alberta Off Road and many others who are encouraging their members to recreate responsibility or stay home during this fire season to reduce the risks.
You've all heard about the recent appeal of ugly produce ... well an even closer look reveals that we are throwing away $31 BILLION dollars worth of food ... completely needlessly. Southern Alberta uses plenty of water to grow food for the world and yet we are throwing it away! April 22 is Earth Day. Let's learn how to save food, water and money - not a bad combination. EVENTS at 11:00 and 3:00 ...
