Agricultural Conservation
Funding Programs
Learn more about the Agriculture and Environment Department funding opportunities.
Environmental Stewardship Awards
The Environmental Stewardship Awards are a way to recognize and reward notable efforts of community members who practice and promote environmental stewardship. Learn more here.
Environmental Farm Plan Program
An Environmental Farm Plan is a voluntary, whole farm, self-assessment tool that helps producers identify their environmental risks and develop a plan to mitigate identified risks. A valid EFP is a requirement of many funding programs.
Technical assistance is also provided to any producer who wishes to complete an Environmental Farm Plan in Wheatland County.
Register to complete your EFP Link to www.albertaefp.com.
Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Grants
The Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program increases the natural ability of the province’s watersheds to reduce the intensity, magnitude, duration, and effects of flooding and drought through watershed mitigation measures. Municipalities and non-profit organizations can apply for funding for projects that will enhance communities’ ability to withstand future flooding or droughts and promotes the ongoing stewardship and preservation of Alberta’s watersheds. The Wheatland County Agriculture and Environment department has received funding though the WRRP grant for the following projects.
Wheatland Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program (2023)
Rosebud Watershed (2019 to 2022)
Partnered with Rocky View County and the Western Irrigation District.
Objectives:
- Restore and protect the function of riparian areas in the Rosebud sub watershed.
- Increase the resiliency of the watershed to withstand flood and drought events.
- Enhance water quality by reducing livestock impact on riparian areas.
- Facilitate education and stewardship.
Achievements:
- 13,212 m of riparian fence installed.
- 24 off-site watering systems installed.
- 83,346mof streambank and riparian areas have been positively impacted in the project area.
Crowfoot Creek (2017 to 2021)
Partnered with the Western Irrigation District.
Objectives:
- Restore and protect the function of riparian areas.
- Increase water storage capacity for flood and drought resiliency.
- Enhance water quality by reducing contact between livestock and riparian areas and addressing direct discharge into canals.
- Facilitate education and stewardship.
Achievements:
- 16,339 m of riparian fence installed.
- 24 off-site watering systems installed.
- 38,843 m of streambank and riparian areas have been positively impacted in the project area.
Watershed Planning & Advisory Councils
Bow River Basin Council (BRBC)
The BRBC is comprised of over 450 active members and more than 700 participants, the Council welcomes a diverse and devoted membership including members from a broad range of sectors. They are dedicated to facilitating meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding, and work to provide unique opportunities that lead to tangible impacts. Together, through science and inclusion, they promote balanced solutions for a healthy watershed.
Red Deer River Watershed Alliance (RDRWA)
RDRWA acts as a collaborative forum for stakeholders from across sectors to work together in support of healthy waters, landscapes, and communities. We all have a role to play in watershed management, and the RDRWA helps community members and key sectors find meaningful opportunities to make a difference.