Follow along with our Rangeland Sustainability Project Through This Blog
June 26, 2026
MD of Ranchland Ecosystem Restoration Strategy: Project Kickoff
We’re excited to launch the MD of Ranchland Ecosystem Restoration Project, a 5-year initiative (2026–2030) focused on addressing woody encroachment and strengthening rangeland sustainability through practical, locally driven solutions.
Led by the Municipal District of Ranchland, this collaborative project brings together key partners including the Waldron Ranch Grazing Co-op (https://www.waldronranch.com/), Alberta Forestry and Parks, and the Rocky Mountain Forest Range Association. Tannas Conservation ltd. (https://www.tannasenvironmental.com/) will be handling the project management, and the entire project is made possible through funding from the Government of Alberta’s Rangeland Sustainability Program (https://www.alberta.ca/rangeland-sustainability-program ).
What We’re Doing
In Year 1 (2026), the focus is on building a strong foundation. Through stakeholder roundtables, consultations, and surveys (https://arcg.is/14CPX13 ), we are gathering input to shape a project framework, identify priority sites, and better understand barriers and opportunities for adoption. This phase will deliver a guiding framework and a roadmap for treatment implementation on woody species.
Later Year 1 and into Year 2 (2027) through Years 3 and 4 (2028–2029), the project moves into action. On-the-ground restoration efforts will target woody encroachment at selected sites, supported by monitoring, communication, and field days. These years emphasize adaptive management, testing practices, sharing knowledge, and refining approaches based on real-world results.
In Year 5 (2030), the project will focus on outcomes and knowledge sharing. Final monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and evaluation will inform regionally appropriate beneficial management practices, along with tools such as a cost-benefit assessment model and educational resources to support long-term adoption.
Why It Matters
Woody encroachment is an emerging challenge that can significantly impact forage production, biodiversity, and overall rangeland health. Addressing it requires informed, coordinated action.
This project supports:
- Practical, adaptive solutions for managing complex, multi-use landscapes
- The development and application of tools and practices that improve long-term stewardship
A Collaborative Effort
This project is grounded in partnership and shared expertise. We are currently collecting local knowledge and data through a stakeholder survey (https://arcg.is/14CPX13 ). In the kickoff video, you’ll hear directly from project partners about their roles, perspectives, and commitment to improving rangeland outcomes.
