Two conservation organizations team up to protect 130-year-old ranch in Alberta

By The Canadian Press

Protective Measures

Two conservation organizations team up to protect 130-year-old ranch in Alberta

Jun 16, 2023 | 12:04 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Two conservation organizations have teamed up to protect one of the largest areas of intact Prairie grasslands and wetlands in Canada.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada and Ducks Unlimited Canada say they are working to conserve McIntyre Ranch through a conservation easement with its owners.

The 130-year-old ranch south of Lethbridge spans more than 220 square kilometres.

When it is completed, the two groups say the easement will represent the largest private land conservation project to date across the Canadian Prairies.

The ranch is owned by the Thrall family, which has worked with the organizations to protect the natural integrity of its fescue and mixed grasslands, as well as about 3,600 wetland basins that include large lakes.

Prevention, Access, Recovery, and Coordination

Safe Harbour officially hands over shelter keys, establishes accessible navigation hub

6h ago

lacombe and sylvan lake

December 2025 (un)employment data released for Alberta sub-regions

7h ago

21 years with WCPS

Darcy Blum appointed principal of Lacombe Outreach School

9h ago

The Nature Conservancy of Canada has started a fundraising campaign to raise the remaining $3 million needed to complete the project.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 15, 2023.

The Canadian Press