Chris Beck with the Southeast Alberta Watershed Alliance takes part in a National Shoreline cleanup event in September 2020. The provincial government is investing in a number of watershed restoration projects, including teaching bioengineering techniques for riverbank stability in Medicine Hat.--News File Photo
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Alberta’s government is investing $7 million to help restore and protect watersheds across the province.
These projects, the province says, will help make Alberta more flood and drought resistant, as healthy watersheds naturally help prevent floods during storms, release water during droughts and help to sustain vital ecosystems.
One of the projects receiving funding is here in Medicine Hat, where students will gain hands-on experience in bioengineering techniques for stabilizing riverbanks, blending restoration with education.
“By investing in watersheds, we are improving community protections from future floods and droughts,” said Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “This funding not only supports landowners, it also results in cleaner water, thriving ecosystems and a healthier environment for people and wildlife across the province.”
Other projects receiving funding include improving watershed health in the Lesser Slave region and revitalizing the urban banks of Calgary’s Elbow River, as well as drought resiliency in Lethbridge and supporting landowners in Milk River as they design sustainable irrigation plans.
The program has provided 215 grants to 85 organizations that have helped support the restoration, enhancement and conservation of 5,475 hectares of wetlands, as well as more than 2,300 hectares of riparian areas.
Applications are now open for another $3.5 million in funding, and organizations, non-profits, Indigenous communities and municipalities can apply until Sept. 15.
“Our government is proud to fund and support our local partners who play a vital role in restoring wetlands and riparian areas while fostering stewardship to protect Alberta’s water systems for future generations,” said Grant Hunter, Associate Minister of Water.
