Sturgeon County declares Local State of Agricultural Disaster
A severe lack of rainfall is seriously affecting our agricultural community; both pasturelands and crop yields are well below estimated growth levels for this time of year. Cattle producers face serious consequences as the vast majority of pasture land and water reserves in dugouts continues to dry-up. It is Councils intent to raise awareness of this serious situation on behalf of the entire agricultural community even though the Declaration of a Local State of Agricultural Disaster is not applicable under the Emergency Management Act. The declaration is to encourage provincial and federal governments to proceed with a similar action and activate the Provincial Drought Response, outlined in the ‘Agricultural Drought Risk Management Plan of Alberta-Strategic Plan.
Rural Development Drought Risk Management Plan
Map
Moisture Levels
Conservation Initiatives
Sturgeon County has partnered with six other municipalities to create the North West Alliance Conservation Initiative (NWACI). This partnership receives funding from the Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture (AESA) program through Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. AESA contributes to projects that demonstrate the importance of innovation in agricultural and environmental sustainability.
For more information on conservation initiatives view NWACI's Conservation Tidbits monthly newsletter.
Workshop: Feeding Horses is a drought workshop
What NWACI can do for you?
Awareness
Local newspaper articles, tours of local projects, and seminars and workshops dealing with agricultural conservation keep area producers informed. Check the events calendar on the NWACI website www.nwaci.com/schedule.htm
Farm Calls
NWACI conservationists visit farms and work with agricultural producers to find innovative solutions to conservation issues pertinent to each operation. Their primary goal is to help producers adopt beneficial management practices that will make farms more profitable and sustainable.
Forage Sampling
NWACI conservationists offer forage sampling to local producers. Conservationists can gather forage samples and assist with the overall analysis. Laboratory fees and shipping costs apply.
What is Agricultural Environmental Sustainability?
Integrated Crop Management
Integrated management develops practical agronomic and economic tools for management, taking into account soil, water, air and biodiversity. Cropping systems may include site-specific management, crop rotation, crop diversification, grassed waterways and residue management to reduce the impacts of crop production on the environment. Having an integrated cropping system enhances the profitability and efficiency of farm operations.
Nutrient Management
Nutrient management involves the feeding, storage, transport, application and use of nutrients on the farm. It addresses challenges dealing with odour, surface and groundwater quality and health and safety issues while promoting the concept of manure as a resource.
Portable Solar Watering Systems
The NWACI has two portable solar watering systems available for temporary producer use. The units are lent out at no charge along with set-up assistance. If you are interested in purchasing a solar watering system, contact the NWACI for information assistance.
Responsible Pest Management and Pesticide Use
New environmentally safe and cost effective methods of pesticide use involve integrated pest management systems. These include site-specific management, crop rotation or biological control. These methods reduce the environmental risks to soil, water, air and non-targeted species.
Sustainable Grazing and Riparian Management
Sustainable grazing addresses environmental concerns and provides a balance between forage production and livestock consumption. A grazing area with a well-balanced variety of species and a well managed grazing schedule produces more grass and creates a sustainable environment for long-term grass production. Healthy grass cover protects soil from erosion and provides wildlife habitat.
Where pastures border on riparian areas, grazing management includes riparian area management. This improves water quality, reduces bank erosion, improves forage production and enhances fish and wildlife habitat.
For more information on conservation initiatives contact:
Mike Hittinger, Municipal Conservation Coordinator
Phone: 780-939-0602
Email: mhittinger@sturgeoncounty.ab.ca
or
Jennifer Stoby, Municipal Conservation Technician
Phone: 780-939-0618
Email: jstoby@sturgeoncounty.ab.ca
www.nwaci.com