City briefs: Major route into Southlands closed for the next few days

By Medicine Hat News on June 1, 2021.

Work on water and sewer lines this week will close a major route into the community of Southlands this week.

Crews will close Southlands Boulevard near 13th Avenue – the western entrance into the south-end community – from May 31 to June 4.

That will leave entrance points on Southlands Drive, at South Boundary Road and at Strachan Road – as two entry ways for motorists.

Weather permitting, the closure is expected to last five days.

Weed control

Members of the Grasslands Naturalists community environmental group are now removing Eurasian buckthorn from areas of Police Point Park in partnership with the city, according to a release.

The shrub is not native to North America and is considered a noxious weed and an invasive species, as it will overtake natural vegetation. The group has already turned over 75 plants to the city parks department for disposal.

Residents are reminded to study Alberta’s noxious weed listings before purchasing ornamental plants, shrubs and trees.

This week is also being celebrated as Environment Week by the Naturalists. More information and a list of activities, including a discussion of invasive Russian Olive and health of the Connaught pond, is available at the group’s website (grasslands-naturalists.org).

Packer hacked

JBS USA said Monday that it fended off a cyber attack that targeted its North American and Australian operations on the weekend.

The company, which has major operations located in Brooks, Alta., said it immediately suspended its affected systems. It is does not believe sensitive information about its suppliers, customers or employees was accessed.

It is currently restarting its systems and evaluating the incident, and stresses that some transactions may be delayed.