The Alberta government is providing $10 million for agricultural societies to improve the energy efficiency of their facilities.
Ag society members say the grant is needed, given many of their buildings are nearly 50 years old and guzzling energy.
“Most of the facilities were built in the 1970s, so obviously it’s time for upgrades,” said Debbie Ross, president of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, following the grant announcement Feb. 7.
“Some have challenges with cash, so this will be a win for them.”
The grant will be supplied by carbon tax funds, through the province’s Climate Leadership Plan.
Read Also
Keep it clean on pre-harvest chemical use
Canadian farmers urged to toe the line on pre-harvest pesticide application and market product restrictions to avoid grain marketing headaches.
It’s expected about 260 societies that operate facilities will be eligible for funding, which can be used to improve lighting, heating, ventilation and rink or arena equipment.
“They are interested, like most Albertans, in reducing their greenhouse gas emissions,” said Agriculture Minister Oneil Carlier.
In some cases, the carbon tax can be costly for agricultural societies, say board members.
They anticipate the funds will help reduce their energy costs, in turn reducing the carbon tax amount.
“If we can reduce the amount of consumption, then we can reduce the amount of fees. It goes hand in hand,” said Tim Carson, chief executive officer of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies.
“We applaud any government that is assisting with volunteer organizations like us. The fact ag societies were recognized as having this impact is a very good thing.”
Agricultural societies operate more than 700 facilities across Alberta, including hockey and curling rinks, community halls and rodeo arenas.
They also run fairs, 4-H activities, farmers’ markets, and offer education workshops and scholarships.
Associations that have recently improved their energy efficiency can still apply for grant funding. Greenhouse gas reduction results must be reportable to the Alberta Climate Change Office.
