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By rdnewsNOW staff

sustained $2.5-million annual investment

Province aiming to revitalize rural and agricultural infrastructure

Nov 22, 2025 | 8:00 AM

Alberta’s government says it remains committed to rural Alberta with a sustained $2.5-million annual investment for major agricultural society facility upgrades.

Since 2023, Alberta’s government says it has taken action to support ag societies through the Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program, strengthening the quality of life in rural communities.

According to government officials, the program has delivered $7.5 million in total grants for 106 ag society projects over the past three years, including funds allocated this year. The province says this funding has helped ag societies with improvements and repairs to commercial kitchens, roofs, horse riding arenas and heating and ventilation in ice rinks, and has increased accessibility and energy efficiency in rural facilities.

Government officials say Alberta’s rural communities need up-to-date facilities to promote community involvement and economic growth. These buildings are described as central hubs, offering residents the opportunity to gather, engage and connect with their neighbours.

“Ag societies have an important role in the quality of life for Alberta villages, towns and rural communities,” explains RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, in a press release. “Throughout the year they welcome Albertans to community events, from local weddings and grad ceremonies to children’s programs, team sports and summer rodeos. With this annual program, ag societies across Alberta will continue to expand and upgrade their facilities, keeping them safe, modern and welcoming.”

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The province says agricultural societies can apply to the program to fund major repairs to existing or aging infrastructure and may receive funding between $10,000 and $100,000.

“If you don’t keep up with infrastructure it just falls apart,” adds Russ Kushinski, director, Calmar and District Agricultural Society. “The funding from the Alberta government allowed us to make some major changes that we couldn’t afford before. It’s just a great opportunity for us.”

“We have put in a high-efficiency boiler system, air-flow system and new flooring in the kitchen,” continues Kushinski. “Our modern facility and curling rink are a big attraction for neighbouring communities.”

Alberta government quick facts

• In 2025, 35 ag societies received funding to undertake roofing and structural repairs, heating, ventilation and air conditioning replacements, arena enhancements and community kitchen upgrades.
• In 2024, 37 ag societies received funding for major facility repairs to improve safety, accessibility and energy efficiency, as well as structural repairs and general maintenance.
• In 2023, 34 ag societies received funding for projects that included major repairs and renovations to commercial kitchens, roofing and dressing rooms. Program funding also supported upgrades in facilities like community halls, arenas and rodeo grounds.
• Alberta is home to 292 agricultural societies, the most in Canada.
• Alberta’s ag societies own or operate more than 1,000 different facilities and host more than 40,000 activities and events every year.
• In Alberta, 191 ag societies are 50 years or older and 27 of these are more than 100 years old.
• The oldest agricultural societies date back to 1879, before Alberta was a province.