ASB Overview
History
ASBs were first established as a pilot project in the municipalities of M.D. of Conrich and the County of Red Deer in 1943. Provincial inspectors in the 1940s realized that municipalities were closest to problems and could deal with requests or issues more quickly than provincial inspectors could. Special agricultural committees consisting of two councillors, two farmers and the district agriculturist were established and given partial funding to operate from Alberta Agriculture. These committees were successful and a resolution was passed at the municipal districts convention in November 1944 requesting the establishment of ASBs throughout Alberta.
The Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Act was drafted and passed into legislation in the spring of 1945. This legislation assigned specific duties and powers to municipal and provincial partners, while encouraging a cooperative and coordinated effort to develop agricultural policies and programs of mutual benefit.
Read about the history:
ASB Program
The Government of Alberta has historically supported the work of the ASBs to meet their duties under the ASB Act through the ASB Program. Staff support for this program has varied over the years, and currently is supported by a Provincial Manager, Specialist and Program Coordinator. These staff provide important links between the Province and Municipalities for administrative and legislative functions. Duties of the ASB Program include:
- Administer the ASB grant program
- Facilitate open communication and collaboration
- Organize ADM Town Hall
- Coordinate the ASB Connector email
- Provide orientation and training to ASBs on regulatory responsibilites
- Field visits to each ASB on a 5 year cycle
- Ex officio, and admin support for ASB Provincial Committee meetings
- Coordinate the Regional Resolution Sessions, and support the Provincial Resolution Session
- Coordinate the ASB Liaison program
Click here to learn about the Government of Alberta ASB Program.
