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AESA Program Information
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Related Websites:
Land Stewardship Centre of Canada
Alberta Farm Plan
AESA Program
Alberta Fish and Game Association
Watersheds of Alberta
Meristem Land and Science
County
of Wetaskiwin
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On-Farm Water Testing Kit
In cooperation with the Alberta Fish and Game
Association and EPCOR, the counties of Wetaskiwin and Leduc will be
offering an expanded opportunity for landowners to participate in the on
farm water sampling program that débuted last year. The kits are
designed to sample for nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous, that
are present in the water. By taking samples at various locations, such
as where the creek enters and exits the property, landowners can get an
idea of how their land management practices are affecting the quality of
the water.
High levels of nutrients in the water can lead
to increased algae growth, and poor fish habitat due to less dissolved
oxygen being present in the water. Some causes of increased nutrient
loading are fertilizers, manure, and sediments that are washed into the
creek from upland areas. Direct animal access to the creek can also
cause an increase in nutrients and bacteria in the water. Sound riparian
management and an awareness of the impact of upland activities on water
quality can greatly improve the quality of the creek for all users.
Wetland areas and riparian vegetation assist in trapping sediments and
their associated pollutants, as well as taking up nutrients and
providing valuable wildlife habitat and forage.
Sampling is performed during spring runoff and
after summer rain events, to determine the effect of what is coming off
the land on the water quality in the adjacent stream. Trained
technicians are available to assist in the sampling and testing of the
water, all results are confidential and remain on the farm. By
identifying the impact that an operation has on the water quality,
decisions can made to improve on current practices, or continue with the
management that has been taking place. By striving to leave the creek in
better condition then when it enters your property, we are all doing our
part in stewardship, and ensuring quality water resources
for future generations.
For any further information
please contact:
Sheena Aitken
AESA Program Manager
Leduc/Wetaskiwin Counties
955-3555 ext. 3204
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