The Alberta government is extending their hand to ranchers who take care of the land they lease. Those who demonstrate “exemplary care for public lands” will be allowed to lease the land to a maximum of 20 years.
The change, according to a news release, will allow ranchers to spend more time focusing on their business, and less time dealing with regulatory red tape through lease renewals.
“Ranchers have always been exemplary environmental stewards – it’s good for the health of the environment and for the health of our businesses. It’s nice to see that the government is willing to recognize us for our responsible work,” says Rich Smith, executive director, Alberta Beef Producers.
The provincial government plans to release guidelines that define “exemplary care for public lands” in the coming months.
“Alberta’s ranchers play an important role in our province. Not only do they have a large impact on our economy, but they are responsible for protecting some of the province’s important grassland and wetland habitats,” says Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks. “Extending grazing tenures for ranchers who go above and beyond our environmental standards recognizes their good behaviour and encourages others to do the same.”
The extension will come into effect in late fall.
