The Alberta government is spending $1.3 million this year to improve the resilience, biodiversity and ecological health of the province’s rangelands through its Rangeland Sustainability Program.The funding will support a wide range of projects, from bird and bee conservation to adaptive grazing and grassland restoration, led by academic institutions, non-profits, grazing associations and indigenous organizations. Grant recipients for 2024-25 include the University of Alberta, the Alberta Native Bee Council, and the Peace Country Beef and Forage Association.“Our rangelands are an important natural asset,” said Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen. “Managing them responsibly benefits all Albertans and expands recreational access.”.Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson said the initiative will help support both environmental stewardship and the farmers and ranchers who depend on healthy rangelands. “By working with indigenous groups, researchers and local communities, we’re helping to ensure Alberta’s rangelands remain productive, resilient and ecologically rich for generations to come," he said.The money comes from grazing rental fees collected from Crown land leaseholders and reinvested into conservation and land management initiatives. The program has grown significantly since it launched in 2020-21 with $43,000. This year’s funding exceeds $1.33 million.Applications for 2025-26 funding are open until September 17.
