Summer is a busy time on Alberta farms and ranches, but it is also an important season for water management. Hot temperatures, dry conditions, and increased field activity can place added pressure on water supplies and water quality. Taking time for a mid-season check of dugouts, watering systems, and runoff areas can help prevent small issues from becoming larger problems later in the season.
Protecting surface water and riparian areas helps improve long-term farm resilience. Maintaining vegetation around dugouts and waterways, monitoring for erosion, and managing livestock access can all support better water quality and reduce environmental risk. Regular inspections of fuel storage, hoses, and chemical handling areas are also important during the busy summer months.
Good water management practices benefit both farm productivity and the environment. Practices such as rotational grazing, maintaining ground cover, and planning for dry conditions can help protect soil moisture and improve pasture health over time. The Alberta Environmental Farm Plan program offers practical tools and resources to help producers identify risks and support environmental stewardship on their operations.
Read more about riparian areas and how to protect them on your property here.