The wide open spaces and grasslands of southeastern Alberta are the focus of a prairie conservation festival planned on the Geoff and Melanie Watson ranch June 8 near Elkwater, Alta.
Rob Gardner of Nature Conservancy Canada is a key organizer of the day-long event, which he said will be more than a “feel good” session about nature and grass.
Water conservation projects, grazing systems discussions and grasslands insurance options are designed to attract ranchers, while a wildflower hike, bug safari and mock branding event will attract those with other interests.
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“That’s what we’re aiming at, is a range of activities from little kids right through to some semi-technical things for agriculture producers,” said Gardner.
There are three objectives for the event: to bring rural and urban conservation-minded people together, encourage a first-hand grassland experience for families and inform southeastern Alberta residents that grassland conservation is viable and underway.
The Watson Ranch is on both sides of Highway 41, five kilometres north of Elkwater or 65 km southeast of Medicine Hat.
The location was selected to show that good management can allow both profitable ranching and a healthy ecosystem.
In addition to native grassland, the site has several wetlands, so a range of birds and wildflowers can be expected.
In case of bad weather, activities will be held in the tents or the dining hall at Camp Apistotoke in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.
Sponsorships from various organizations have made free admission possible for the 100 to 200 participants that Garner is anticipating. Key organizing groups include the Nature Conservancy, Prairie Conservation Forum and the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance.
An evening barbecue has a $15 fee attached for adults and $10 for students. Pre-booking for that is encouraged by contacting Gardner at rob.gardner@natureconservancy.ca.
