Agriculture is a major part of the economy and a livelihood for many. If you choose to live in proximity to agricultural operations, you should be prepared to expect some inconveniences.

Agricultural operators:

  • often work around the clock, especially during planting and harvest time; hay is often swathed or baled at night, low-flying planes and crop dusters may fly during irregular hours.
  • occasionally burn their fields and ditches, with permission, to eliminate debris and weeds.
  • may use chemicals (mainly fertilizers and herbicides) in growing crops, which might cause sensitivities and allergies.

Land preparation and other operations can cause dust, especially during
windy and dry weather.

Sturgeon County has a closed range bylaw, meaning that pets and
livestock cannot roam free.

Farm animals and manure may cause objectionable odors.

  • Forward any concerns or complaints to the provincial Natural Resource Conservation Board.

Even farm animals can be dangerous.
For your safety:

  • do not enter pens where animals are kept.
  • do not access property without consent from the landowner.

If you are considering owning grazing animals, there is a limit to the amount of grazing the land can handle.

  • Contact Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development for information on grazing rates per acre.

The provincial Agricultural Operations Practice Act (AOPA) sets guidelines on odour, noise, dust, smoke and other disturbances resulting from an agricultural operation.

  • Contact the Farmer's Advocate Office for information about the AOPA.