Lacombe County presents Environmental Stewardship Award to Ward Nelson

Lacombe County is proud to announce the recipient of its 2023 Environmental Stewardship Program award, Ward Nelson.

County officials note, council presented the award to Ward during the Oct. 26, 2023 council meeting. Officials say the award serves to recognize and celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of environmental stewardship within the County.

Officials say Ward Nelson, a county resident for the past 10 years, has been actively involved in environmental initiatives in his community. Situated alongside the picturesque Medicine River, his property spans approximately 1.4 kilometres of the riverbank. The County says Ward has dedicated himself to safeguarding this vital ecosystem by diligently mitigating livestock-related damage to the river and its adjacent banks. Officials highlight that Ward’s land management practices have seen the integration of a rotational grazing system, ensuring that no area is overgrazed and facilitating the flourishing of native flora.

To keep his cattle and horses from using the river as a water source, the County says Ward installed a solar-powered livestock watering system and constructed a dugout. Additionally, he has embarked on an ambitious reforestation project, planting over 2000 tree seedlings along the riverbanks to restore the natural vegetation and enhance the stability of the riverbanks.