Acreage Owners
Tending to your acreage’s riparian areas will protect and enhance the valuable natural assets on your property. Some beneficial management practices for acreage owners include:
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Create a buffer of native plants between acreage activities and water bodies
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Plant native grasses and limit turf lawns
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Minimize or eliminate the use of lawn herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers
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Maintain a natural shoreline with deep-rooted native plants to reduce erosion
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Avoid disturbing the soil or building structures in riparian areas
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Maintain a properly functioning septic system (have it routinely inspected and emptied)
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Be aware of runoff on your property. Use “low impact development” techniques such as rain barrels, rain gardens, and permeable pavement
Land Conservation
Land Stewardship Centre
A practical guide for acreage owners that explains rural living and land stewardship, including how to manage water, soil, wildlife, and property responsibly. Basic tips and introductory principles to land stewardship.
Government of Alberta
A guidance document that explains how to protect water bodies by setting appropriate setbacks and conserving riparian areas.
Cows and Fish
A checklist tool that helps landowners assess the health of their streambank (riparian area) based on vegetation, erosion, water quality, and wildlife indicators. Evaluate conditions and identify where improvements can be made.
Alberta Invasive Species Council
Provides educational guides and identification tools to help people recognize invasive plants and aquatic species in Alberta and understand their impacts. There is also a "Grow Me Instead" planting guide brochure.
Water & Land Use
Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership (ALIDP)
A collection of low impact development tools and practices for managing stormwater, such as rain gardens, permeable surfaces, and natural feature protection. Use it to reduce runoff, improve water quality, and mimic natural drainage in developed areas.