Environment

Who should I contact if I have concerns over wetland drainage, waterbody alterations, or environmental impact concerns? 

If the concerns are not located on municipal lands, please forward your concerns to the 24-hour Government of Alberta Energy and Environmental Response Line at 1-800-222-6514.

What is the purpose of the State of the Environment reports?

The State of the Environment Report helps determine:

• the current state or condition of our County’s environment
• the pressures impacting the environment
• the effect of management actions on environmental conditions in the local area

 State of the Environment Reports will be compiled on a 5-year basis, moving forward from the last annual report compiled in 2018.

Does the County utilize green-energy options?

Yes! Lacombe County has three solar installations on three buildings. Our largest solar installation consists of a 115 kilowatt-peak system with 288 – 400 watt solar panels. This installation is estimated to produce over 122,000 kWh of electricity, which is equivalent to approximately 17 Albertan homes. 

What is the purpose of reserves?

The County’s Reserve Lands provide benefits for existing and future residents of the County and the public and protect the natural environment.

What is a Municipal Reserve?

Municipal Reserves are intended to provide a suitable land base for the provision of recreation facilities for the use and enjoyment of County residents and the public.

What is an Environmental Reserve?

Environmental Reserves are intended to protect the natural environment of the reserve lands and surrounding area. They will also be managed to protect human life and property from hazardous environmental conditions (e.g., flooding, unstable slopes) and provide access to lakes and rivers.

Is camping allowed on reserve lands?

Camping may be permitted through County approval in unique circumstances, such as one-off events, on Municipal Reserve. Camping will not be permitted on Environmental Reserve.

Are off-highway vehicles permitted on County Reserves?

Off-Highway Vehicles are not permitted on County Reserves, unless used on designated trails present near the McLaurin Beach, New Saratoga, and Wilson’s Beach Subdivisions. Designated trails are intended to facilitate access to and from the lake, not for recreational riding.

Who do I contact if I have concerns over the use/misuse of County Reserve Lands?

Concerns over the mismanagement of County Reserves can be forwarded to Community Services.

Can I store personal items on reserve lands?

Yes, individuals may request to store boat lifts and docks on County Reserves within the winter months (September Long to May Long). A Special Use of Reserve Permit application must be submitted, and a registration tag must be received to store items. Please see Special Use of Reserves for additional details on the process.