The government of Alberta is investing $10 million to improve private land conservation, with the launch of two new and improved programs.
The enhanced Private Land Conservation Program and the new Ecosystems Grant Program will enable better protection of natural areas across the province, while allowing landowners to use their land for farming and ranching, the province has said.
A mid-July news released added that private landowners in Alberta are strong supporters of conservation and have conserved more than 142,000 acres since 2019.
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Many landowners have been asking for more flexible conservation programs to help them make a living while still protecting the land.
The Private Land Conservation Program is a redux of the Land Trust Grant Program. Funding will be distributed to Alberta-based land trusts only, a move meant to keep money meant for conservation in the province.
The province argued that the new term conservation easements will allow maximum flexibility for future landowners while still protecting the environment.
Term conservation easements last up to 50 years.
The new Ecosystem Services Grant Program helps landowners cover the costs of maintaining conservation lands, according to the mid-July release. The province added that grasslands, riparian areas and wetlands provide ecosystems services that support all residents of Alberta.
Applications are being accepted for both the Private Land Conservation Program and the Ecosystem Services Grant Program until Oct. 1, 2025. Details on how to apply and eligibility are available on www.alberta.ca
