Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta’s government has unveiled a $1.4-million investment aimed at protecting and improving the province’s vast rangelands, with funding directed toward projects that promote sustainable grazing, ecosystem conservation and long-term agricultural productivity.
The financial support is being provided through the Rangeland Sustainability Program, which channels a portion of grazing lease revenues into initiatives designed to preserve the ecological health of Alberta’s grasslands while supporting ranchers and local communities.
Provincial officials said the program encourages collaboration between researchers, conservation groups, agricultural organizations and local governments to develop practical strategies for managing rangelands more effectively.
Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen described Alberta’s rangelands as critical natural resources that support livestock production, wildlife habitats and environmental sustainability. He said the investment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring these landscapes remain productive and resilient for future generations.
Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Tara Sawyer highlighted the importance of healthy grazing lands for Alberta’s farming and ranching sector. She noted that well-managed rangelands provide reliable forage for livestock, improve agricultural efficiency and reduce dependence on stored feed during the grazing season.
The funding will support a range of projects, including invasive species control, restoration of native grasslands, research into improved land management practices and public awareness initiatives focused on sustainable rangeland stewardship.
One of the supported projects will explore the use of targeted goat grazing as an environmentally friendly method to control invasive vegetation and restore overgrown grazing areas. Organizers say the initiative will also help share practical knowledge with producers across the province.
This year’s funding recipients include conservation organizations, forage associations, municipal bodies and environmental groups working in different regions of Alberta to enhance biodiversity and improve land management.
The province has also announced that applications for the 2026-27 Rangeland Sustainability Program are now open and will be accepted until September 16, 2026, inviting organizations with innovative ideas to contribute to the long-term health and sustainability of Alberta’s rangelands.
