Oldman Watershed Council discusses water, drought, conservation

By Rob VogtThe Oldman Watershed Council is a not-for-profit organization that is working in partnership with communities and residents to improve the Oldman River Watershed. The council consists of members who live or work within the Oldman basin. These members provide leadership and guidance in watershed planning and management, water quality monitoring, and stewardship promotion.At a drought preparedness and mitigation … Read more

Kananaskis map navigates risk levels of avalanche terrain

April 12, 2024 By Jessica Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A new, innovative tool has slid onto the scene to help outdoor enthusiasts make better decisions when planning trips in avalanche terrain in Kananaskis Country, or to steer clear of avalanche hazards altogether. The Automated Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale map, or AutoATES map, uses geospatial modelling to assess avalanche terrain risk based … Read more

Town to launch information campaign on water conservation

By Rob VogtLooks can be deceiving.The recent heavy snowfall has provided some moisture, but this area is still in drought, and the Town of Claresholm’s water restrictions are still in effect.The town gets its water from the Pine Coulee Reservoir west of Stavely, and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas has already started to fill the reservoir.“The reality is they need … Read more

Claresholm town council updated on water situation

By Rob Vogt The Town of Claresholm is preparing for another spring and summer where water conservation measures will again have to be adopted.At its March 25 meeting, Claresholm town council discussed the water situation after a report from administration.Abe Tinney, the town’s chief administrative officer, explained the town is still in a water shortage and Stage 3 of its … Read more

More help on the way for Alberta’s ‘iconic’ hawk

By Dave Lueneberg, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter; Photo by Jerry Liguori A plan announced last month by the Alberta government will boost efforts to keep the ferruginous hawk a key part of the province’s ecosystem. Known for flying and nesting over the southern grasslands, including here in the southwest, its population in the early 2000s dropped dangerously low, but has managed … Read more

Province pledges funds towards drought resiliency, infrastructure

By Dave Lueneberg, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter “We have to find better ways to maximize our province’s water supply, not just for today but also for future Albertans.” Those were just some of the words used by the province’s environment minister, Rebecca Schulz, March 13 as the Alberta government announced $35 million in funding toward what it believes could be another … Read more