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?
You can get "smarter" too with the 5 things that Taren learned at the Farming Smarter Conference and Tradeshow 2016. The connection between urban and rural was a big theme, so whether you live in town or in the country, take a few moments and check out this blog on everything from crop research, to 4-H to facts about flax, and no-till practices - and why it matters for the food you eat and the health of the watershed.
This is lazy cat. Don't be lazy cat - please remember the Oldman on your shopping list! Our hard work depends on gifts from people like you who are helping us ensure clean water for all Albertans for generations to come! If you've never donated before, you'll be pleasantly surprised how easy it is - and what a difference even just a small donation makes. It's a one-click gift! You are making a difference - thank you!
SACPA recently invited us to present at the Lethbridge Public Library and give an update on our current research. Anna Garleff, Communications Specialist, and Shannon Frank, Executive Director, welcomed a full house and were excited to present history, maps, timelines and videos to the crowd. Thank you for coming - we had representation from throughout the watershed and we were thrilled to see everyone there. Here's the narrated PowerPoint for those who couldn't make it.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
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...
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 ...
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 ...
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...
