With the change in season, now is a great time for producers to start thinking ahead to next year and begin planning for 2026. Winter is the perfect opportunity to step back and take a fresh look at what is working well, where improvements could be made, and how to make those tougher-to-farm areas more productive through conservation.
ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services) projects help improve productivity on harder-to-use areas of your land while supporting conservation and ecosystem health. By planning now, you’ll have time to discuss ideas with your local Rocky View County ALUS Coordinator, identify areas suited for enhancement, and prepare your project for Partnership Advisory Committee (PAC) review and approval in the new year.
What is ALUS?
ALUS is a national, community-driven program that works with farmers and ranchers across Canada to support projects that produce ecological services on their land. It engages producers in creating, restoring, and enhancing acres of nature to address local environmental challenges, build community resilience, and contribute to efforts against biodiversity loss and climate change.
Ecological services are the benefits nature provides that we all rely on, including clean water, clean air, flood protection, pollination, and wildlife habitat. The ALUS Program in Rocky View County helps landowners strengthen natural systems on marginal or harder-to-use parts of their land. Participants receive funding for project establishment as well as annual payments for maintaining these natural features and the ecosystem services they provide.
ALUS Projects Tailored to Your Land
Every farm and ranch is unique, and ALUS projects can be tailored to fit your operation. Projects can range from major new initiatives to smaller enhancements to what you are already doing. A few examples include:
- Wetland Protection and Restoration: Protect existing wetlands to improve drought resiliency in crop fields, or re-establish natural wetlands to slow runoff, filter nutrients, and reduce flooding and drought impacts.
- Riparian Enhancement: Expand vegetation along creeks or sloughs to improve water quality and provide wildlife habitat. Install fencing or off-site waterers to keep livestock out of sensitive areas, allowing vegetation to recover.
- Native Grassland Projects: Seed or protect native prairie for grazing, haying, and species-at-risk habitat.
- Tree and Pollinator Plantings: Establish shelterbelts and plant species that support native bees and other pollinators essential for crops and native plants.
How to Apply and Fund Your Project
Producers can start the process anytime by submitting an application form [PDF/175KB]. It is recommended to reach out to the Rocky View County ALUS Coordinator prior to discuss project ideas and schedule a site visit. Coordinators can also help identify suitable areas and provide guidance for those unsure where to start.
Funding is available annually, and projects are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Once funding for the year is fully allocated, projects wait in queue to be considered the following year. Getting an early start gives you the best chance to move forward with your project.
Participants receive cost-share funding to establish their projects and sign a five-year term agreement to receive annual payments for maintenance.
Support and Resources
For more information, contact:
Matt Chilakos, Rocky View County ALUS Coordinator
- Phone: 403-230-1401
- Email: agservices@rockyview.ca