Our municipality is a big place, and we need lots of eyes keeping a lookout on our environment!
To report an issue regarding weed or pest control, soil conservation, or any other environmental concerns within the Municipality, please click here: https://crowsnest.omnigo.one/CESIReportExec/olr/main.aspx.
Thank you!
Environmental Services is made up of an Environmental Coordinator and Environmental Assistant. The Environmental Services staff responsibilities include the enforcement and administration of the following statutes: Weed Control Act, Soil Conservation Act, and the Agricultural Pests Act.
The Environmental Services (ES) staff monitor for newly introduced invasive species while working to control and eradicate invasive weed species to protect the biodiversity of the Crowsnest Pass. Eradication or control of invasive species, such as prohibited noxious and noxious weeds, is critical to the long-term prosperity of our natural landscapes. The ES staff are responsible for managing weeds on Municipal properties, however, weed control on private property is the responsibility of the landowner. The ES staff are happy to conduct inspections and provide guidance on best practices and control measures.
The ES staff assist landowners with nuisance pests by providing advice, inspections, and live trap rentals. The ES staff host weed pulls every Wednesday morning in the months of June, July, and August on various riparian areas throughout the Crowsnest Pass. The Environmental Services staff are working hard to restore these areas back to their native vegetation.
As designated by the Alberta Weed Control Act, the Municipality will be conducting vegetation management via an Integrated Vegetation Management Program. This program includes inspections and various control methods such as chemical treatments. This program commences annually from May 15th until October 31st .
Municipal weed inspectors will be inspecting private properties, acreages, and industrial sites for regulated prohibited noxious and noxious weeds. The Municipality asks landowners to remove invasive weeds to prevent further spread.
Municipal contract sprayers will be conducting herbicide applications (weather permitting). Alternative Municipal vegetation treatments will include cultural, mechanical, or biological control methods.
Due diligence regarding public safety and environmental health will be followed. The risk is minimal though it is recommended staying off treated sprayed areas for 24 hours following the application time/date which can be found on posted signage at the site.
A list of these regulated species can be found online at: Alberta King's Printer: Alberta Weed Control Act Regulations
Invasive weed photos and information can be found on our Weed Wednesday page or online through www.abinvasives.ca. For any weed concerns, please submit an online report to the Environmental Services Department. Our office is located at the Blairmore Fire Station, 2141 127 Street. For any further questions or specific information please contact the Environmental Coordinator at 403-562-8833. The Environmental Services department is always here to help you with any questions you may have.
What are invasive species?
Invasive species are non-native species that have been introduced to an ecosystem that cause negative economic, or environmental harm. Invasive species can be animals, plants, diseases, or other organisms and outcompete native species for nutrients, sunlight, water, and space. Because these species are non-native to Alberta, they have no natural predators to keep their populations in check. Too often, invasive weed species will have allelopathic properties, intoxicating surrounding plants and impacting soil quality.
Invasive species have been introduced for ornamentals, medicinal purposes, or for cultivation but have escaped and become established in our native habitats.
What can you do to help combat invasive species?
