Can Native Grasslands Be Restored After Industrial Development?

Can Native Grasslands Be Restored After Industrial Development?

What do ranching, oil & gas roads, invasive species, and restoration have in common? They all occur on Alberta's native grasslands, and they were all discussed at the Foothills Restoration Forum's Fall Information Session in Claresholm!

60,000 years ago to 2060 in the Oldman: Maps & Videos at SACPA's Public Library Event

60,000 years ago to 2060 in the Oldman:       Maps & Videos at SACPA's Public Library Event

How old is the Oldman? That is to say, how far back in human memory do we have stories about our region? SAPA and the Lethbridge Public Library are hosting the OWC on November 23rd at an EVENING EVENT sneak peek behind-the-scenes of our Film Project. We will be showcasing the research on our historical maps and timeline which underscore present-day watershed issues and the videos we are making about them.  All are welcome, admission is free. We hope you will bring a friend and join us!

Invasive Mussels Closing in on Alberta

Invasive Mussels Closing in on Alberta

Mussels, although tasty in many instances, are leaving a bad taste in the mouths of the sniffer dogs of the Alberta Aquatic Invasive Species program. These things clog irrigation pipes, residential pipes, stick on motors, machines and .... money. They cost bigly money.

Bow River Phosphorus Management Plan Implementation Update & Video Series

Bow River Phosphorus Management Plan Implementation Update & Video Series

If you live in the Oldman watershed, you should know that the Bow River to the north caters to a third of the province's population and joins the Oldman just past Taber to form the South Saskatchewan. This is about green water...and in this case, green is NOT environmentally friendly. 

Willow Stakes & Fence Posts : Backcountry Restoration Event 2016

Willow Stakes & Fence Posts : Backcountry Restoration Event 2016

What does it look like when a community rallies together - to protect drinking water and fish habitat, forging first-hand connections with the source of our river - while simultaneously making new friends? Broad smiles, muddy boots, and a gratifying sense of accomplishment, that’s what! Write-up and great photos here! 

Building Relationships: In good company

Building Relationships: In good company

You will probably have seen the 3 videos that are now out about urban watershed management and health. They are available on our You Tube channel. Now in the works are 3 videos on urban themes - again, from a scientific viewpoint, one for the kids and one for the public. Thanks to the Potato Growers of Alberta for their collaboration and support of our Film Project ... and this write-up!

Livingstone Landowners Guild Showcases Local Non-profits

Livingstone Landowners Guild Showcases Local Non-profits

Recently, the Livingstone Landowners Guild hosted a “Who’s Who and What they Do” event to introduce local landowners to the many non-profit organizations operating in their area.

At the event, much of the open discussion focused on headwaters management and what impact the Government of Alberta Livingstone and Porcupine Hills Land Footprint Management Plan and Recreation Management Plans that are currently underway will have.

How to Grow Lunch from Fish Waste - Aquaponics & Other Agricultural Innovations

How to Grow Lunch from Fish Waste - Aquaponics & Other Agricultural Innovations

If you're an urbanite, you probably don't care about BMPs or know what they are. But I bet you've been to restaurants downtown and have eaten some pretty special veg!!! So whether you're a farmer, a rancher, or a city resident who just wants to understand where your food (Read: water) comes from .... read on!  This article details lots of great resources in regards to sustainability in agriculture.

City will Participate in Water Charter

City will Participate in Water Charter

The Oldman Watershed Council hopes to unite municipalities and organizations to protect the local water supply.

On Monday, Lethbridge City Council agreed to add their name to a Southern Alberta Water Charter proposed by the OWC. Signing the charter pledges action and commitment to the betterment of the health of the Oldman watershed.

Watershed Legacy Program in the Porcupine Hills

Watershed Legacy Program in the Porcupine Hills

Believe it or not, cattle are fussy critters. Yessiree, if there's a choice between drinking from a mucky old hole, or a fresh bubbling water source - guess which they pick? Keeping cows away from streams is something that the OWC is actively supporting: not only in word, but indeed! (pun intended) So funders are sought and funding is awarded for projects ...

PNWER: “The Gold Standard of US - Canada Relations”

PNWER: “The Gold Standard of US - Canada Relations”

Pacific North West Economic Region Foundation - PNWR! OWC's Executive Director, Shannon Frank, recently presented at the Canada / USA conference, as our Engaging Recreationists Project is considered an example of best practice on both sides of the border. There were also work sessions on water policy and practice...

Riparian Restoration Event!

Riparian Restoration Event!

Last chance to get out in the backcountry this season and show some love for the Oldman! Join us for the big bioengineering event of the year - no experience necessary - just a willing attitude and helping hands. Hot lunch and carpooling available - bring a friend or two and make a day of it! You do need to register, but it is free ... 

Water Monitoring - What's in it for you?

Water Monitoring - What's in it for you?

What's the government doing to ensure we have clean, clear water for generations to come? OWC is transitioning from Headwaters Protection (Goal 3 of its Integrated Watershed Management Plan) to Goal 6 - WATER QUALITY. This is a summary of the recent annual Water Quality Monitoring Workshop held in Lethbridge ...

Are you a well user? Don't get your water from the public system?

Are you a well user? Don't get your water from the public system?

A lot of people don't get their water from the public system. In fact, many people in rural Alberta use wells, boreholes, and cisterns for their drinking water. If you are one of them, here's a simple, easy way for you to contribute to watershed research AND get a $100 gift card! 

A rancher's experience with solar energy in Southwest Alberta

A rancher's experience with solar energy in Southwest Alberta

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...