You've loaded the trailer, driven to your favourite backcountry hideaway... only to find it's been "staked" out with willows and fence posts! What is going on? Find out how YOU can help keep our rivers healthy, just by letting these areas recover.
Headwaters Roses and Thorns
Protecting What We Love
The eastern slopes should be a place for OHV users, campers, anglers, hunters, hikers and everyone in between. But in order for that to happen, activities need to be supported accordingly. Under the current framework that simply isn’t possible. The draft plans released March 27, 2018 offer a path forward.
Staking Out the Backcountry
Bioindicators: No Backbone Required
One for the Books - May Long 2017
New video! Minister of Environment & Parks and MLA Lethbridge East in the Headwaters
Recently, the OWC took Minister Phillips and MLA Fitzpatrick up to the headwaters for a tour of our area of special interest, Dutch Creek, and some flyfishing. We got the opportunity to capture some of it on film. In this clip, Minister Phillips explains how the OWC - and the other 10 Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils across Alberta - help inform her work.
Curious about the science & history in Waterton Lakes National Park?
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.
Attend OWC's Annual General Meeting!
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!!
Alberta’s Fire Emergency - Imagine How You Would Feel...Don’t Let it be You
ATTENTION: With the support of the Alberta Off-Highway Vehicle Association and due to extreme fire hazards, the Government of Alberta has issued a province-wide ban on the use of ALL recreational off-highway vehicles on public lands and provincial parks, effective immediately. This ban does not include agricultural, commercial, industrial or First Nations use. Additionally, the ban does not include camping or the use of RV’s.
Details here: Government of Alberta Link
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.
Info for Campers:
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.
The recent ban on OHV use is mandatory. When this ban ends, or if using OHV's on private land, here is some important information regarding fire prevention.
Info for Recreational Vehicle Users:
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
For more information check out these helpful links:
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.
Introducing Rob Taylor - completing OWC's Outreach Assistant Team!
What are we actually DOING to improve the health of our watershed? The OWC is working closely and carefully with all stakeholders over the last years to identify 8 Goals. As the birthplace of our water, protecting the headwaters is a priority. We created the Headwaters Action Team and the Headwaters Action Plan. Continuing on our successes of last year out in the backcountry, our 4 Outreach Assistants are going to help put that plan into action this summer. We'd like to introduce you to Rob Taylor ...
Say Hi to the New Guy!
Our Engaging Recreationists project is ramping up! Last year, we had 2 Outreach Assistants in the backcountry, piloting our outreach project. This year, we are doubling that capacity and have hired the first of 4 Outreach Assistants (OAs) who will be helping with restoration work and education in the backcountry. Led by Education Manager Sofie Forsstrom, the project is set to take off soon and we will announce the other OAs as they come aboard ...
The OWC is hiring Outreach Assistants for Summer 2016
OHVs and the OWC: Where Do We Stand?
Recreation or Wreckreation?
It's all happening at once! Come out to an event this week!
Dutch Creek Restoration Event
Government, Shovels ... and 5 other things you may not have heard about
My OWC Internship - Adam Janzen
What's happening in the headwaters?
One of the most looked forward to events is the opportunity to do bioengineering. Anyone over the age of 16 can participate! It's your chance to get out into the headwaters and share the day with a group of scientists and volunteers and learn about how we help keep places like Dutch Creek special. Save the dates ...