Lacombe County releases State of the Environment Report

Lacombe County is pleased to announce the completion and release of its newest State of the Environment Report, a comprehensive five-year summary of environmental conditions, trends, initiatives, and stewardship efforts across the County from 2020 to 2025.

The report serves as an important tool for tracking environmental conditions and evaluating progress on the priorities identified in Lacombe County’s Environmental Management Plan, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, land stewardship, water quality and security, and climate change adaptation and mitigation.

“This report highlights the meaningful work being done to protect and enhance the environment while supporting a strong and vibrant rural community,” said Jordan Nakonechny, Environmental Coordinator with Lacombe County. “It showcases not only the environmental challenges we face, but also the many projects, partnerships, and stewardship efforts helping to build resilience and sustainability across the County.”

The five-year report highlights a number of environmental achievements and initiatives, including:

• Expansion of solar installations at County facilities, with the Tees and Rainy Creek Shops now generating enough electricity to offset 100 per cent of their annual consumption.
• Continued enhancement and monitoring of the Crooker Wetland, a former aggregate pit reclaimed into a functioning wetland ecosystem.
• Ongoing support for environmental stewardship through programs such as the Resident Environmental Sustainability Program and Environmental Stewardship Award.
• The opening and stewardship of Burns Nature Park on Sylvan Lake.
• Monitoring and reporting on the health of local lakes, rivers, wetlands, wildlife, and biodiversity.

The report also examines broader environmental trends impacting the region, including drought conditions, water quality, riparian health, biodiversity, invasive species, and the projected effects of climate change. Through scientific data and local context, the report provides residents with an accessible overview of the environmental factors shaping Lacombe County today and into the future.

"Environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility and a key part of preserving the quality of life enjoyed by generations of residents. This report highlights both the progress being made and the opportunities ahead as we continue working together to care for the land, water, and natural resources that define Lacombe County,” said Lacombe County Reeve John Ireland.

Originally published annually beginning in 2013, the State of the Environment Report now follows a five-year reporting cycle, allowing for a more comprehensive review of environmental policies, programs, activities, and outcomes. The report demonstrates Lacombe County’s continued commitment to transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship.

Residents, landowners, community groups, and anyone interested in the environmental health of Lacombe County are encouraged to explore the report online and learn more about the initiatives helping protect local natural resources for future generations.

You can read the full State of the Environment Report at www.lacombecounty.com/SOE.