MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY - The county’s agricultural service board (ASB) has been updated on the ALUS and Riparian and Ecological Enhancement (REEP) conservation programs.
Board members also approved increase payment rates paid for cropland and pasture related projects.
Regarding 2023 ALUS projects in Mountain View County (MVC), a total of five producers took part in projects totalling $21,922, impacting 95.4 acres of wetland, riparian and upland areas, with other funds allocated to support contract renewals, administration and outreach.
“It is estimated that MVC producers contributed approximately $18,263 to project establishment, including material costs, equipment and labour,” said Lorelee Grattidge, sustainable agricultural specialist.
Since the county joined ALUS, formerly called Alternative Land Use Service, a total of 56 participants have taken part in 387 projects, conserving and enhancing more than 2,200 acres of wetland, riparian and upland areas.
In 2023, two local projects had their ALUS contracts renewed for a total of 136.5 acres. As well, pending funding, MVC ALUS projections for 2024 are six new participants with projects covering a total of 140 acres, she said.
Regarding REEP projects, a total of four projects were approved in 2023 for a total of $3,197. As well, 14 follow-up riparian health assessment were completed on projects, with 79 per cent scoring healthy or healthy with problems.
Board members passed a motion increasing the per acre rate of $50 for cropland projects to $60 per acre in 2024.
As well, the pasture rate has been increased from $30 an acre to $40 an acre in 2024.
During the March 11 board meeting, members approved additional funding totalling $1,043 for a winter solar watering system project at 33-30-04-W5 in the Little Red Deer watershed for use by 100 cow/calf pairs.
The ASB is made up of county councillors and appointed members of the area agriculture community. It advices the county and province on agricultural issues and concerns.
