On November 17, 2025, the newly elected Agricultural Service Board Provincial Committee convened, recognizing returning members and welcoming newcomers. Established in 2005, the Committee facilitates communication between Agricultural Service Boards across Alberta and the government, addressing key agricultural issues. Various representatives bring extensive experience in agriculture and community leadership.
Inside the November ASBPC–Minister Meeting
On November 17, the Agricultural Service Board Provincial Committee met with the Minister of Agriculture to discuss priorities for rural municipalities. Key topics included budget constraints, Richardson Ground Squirrel control, veterinary shortages, mental health in agriculture, and on-farm slaughter regulations. ASBs are encouraged to document impacts and prepare for future initiatives.
Changes to Wild Boar Management
Resolution 5-24 December 1, 2025 the ASBPC and ASBs with Wild Boar Farms met virtually with ADM John Conrad and staff to discuss the changes to regulations impacting Wild Boar Farms in Alberta. Resolution 5-24 requests that "the Government of Alberta amend the Alberta Agricultural Pests Act to require Minimum Containment Standards for Alberta Wild …
Effective Weed Management on Alberta Oil and Gas Well Sites
The Weeds on Wellsites working group is actively addressing weed management challenges on oil and gas well sites in Alberta. Recent efforts include a survey of some municipalities to get an idea of the extent of the concerns. Legislative proposals aim to enhance enforcement and cost recovery, while summer field tours connected policy and landowners for greater understanding. Continued engagement is needed to deepen understanding and enhance awareness for better management practices.
Alberta’s Charitable Gaming Policy Changes: Key Updates 2025
In March 2025, Alberta announced changes to the Charitable Gaming Policies Handbook to reduce restrictions on charities, allowing increased retention of proceeds and flexibility in spending. This aims to support rural non-profits, addressing concerns over limitations imposed by the 2022 handbook, which restricted revenue generation and reserve building.
Regulating Agricultural Plastics in Alberta: Your Feedback Matters
Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, along with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, are seeking public input on regulating agricultural plastics waste recycling. Feedback is welcome on types of plastics, implementation timing, recovery rates, and service standards. An online survey is available until September 12, 2025, with an information session on August 13.
Reforming Agri-Recovery for Livestock Producers in Alberta
In 2025, the ASBs passed resolution 1-25, advocating for reforms in the Livestock Deferral Program and Agri-Recovery initiatives. This response addressed limitations in drought assessments due to data scarcity, particularly in northern regions. Enhanced data collection and improved assessments aim to better reflect drought impacts on livestock operations across municipal boundaries.
Join the 2025 ASB Gopher Impact Survey Today
The 2025 ASB Gopher Impact Survey, responding to Federal MP John Barlow, aims to compile evidence on the pest damage caused by Richardson's Ground Squirrels to inform agricultural policy. Farmers are encouraged to submit damage photos, with a target of 200 responses, to prompt timely government action for affected Prairie producers.
When Policy Becomes a Farmer’s Biggest Threat – A Year in the Life of a Farmer
China's canola tariffs illustrate how federal policy choices can cripple Canadian agriculture. — Read on thelifeofafarmer.com/2025/08/13/policy-a-farmers-biggest-threat/ A worth while summary of the impact of the October 2024 move to help the auto industry on western farmers.
Municipalities Declaring Disasters in 2025: A Growing Concern – Updated September 16, 2025
As of August 16, 17 rural municipalities in Alberta have already declared an Agriculture Disaster due to dry conditions, more are expected for the 2025 growing season.
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