The Adams Ranch near Waterton will be conserved thanks to an agreement with the Nature Conservancy of Canada. (Photo: Sean Feagan/NCC)

By David Opinko

Deal reached to conserve ranch near Waterton

Oct 7, 2024 | 1:29 PM

BOUNDARY CREEK, AB – The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) will work to protect an area of pristine grasslands near the Canada-U.S. border from development.

Colleen and Dale Adams have signed an agreement with the NCC to conserve their 128-hectare (315-acre) cattle ranch from any future subdivisions, drainage or cultivation.

The NCC says the Adams Ranch boasts “spectacular views” and is located approximately six kilometres north of the international border near Waterton Lakes National Park.

Dale Adams says there has been a lot of competition for land in the area, so he wanted to ensure the cattle grazing site and a haven for wildlife goes unspoiled.

“Working on the lands is the only thing I know. There are a lot of recreational pressures on lands in this area. At this rate, there won’t be many of the wild grasslands left so it makes us feel real good knowing that it will stay a ranch forever,” says Adams. “Having it preserved and never cut up into acreage or subdivision was our goal. This is a place where you can relax. The view is incredible and makes this area very special. This whole project with NCC has been great.”

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He is encouraging other landowners to consider conservation partnerships like this one.

According to the NCC, more than 80 per cent of the original, native Prairie Grasslands in Canada’s prairies have been lost to other uses.

NCC Alberta Vice President Tom Lynch-Staunton applauded the couple for their vision.

“It reinforces how cattle ranching and conservation can and does co-exist. By working together, we can support working landscapes and local livelihoods for today and future generations of ranchers while protecting endangered, temperate Prairie grasslands and the species at risk that rely on them,” says Lynch-Staunton.

This is the second-largest conservation agreement involving the Adams family and NCC. Another 64-hectare (158-acre) site is being protected on Shanks Lake, south of Magrath.

The NCC has a goal of conserving more than 50,000 hectares of prairie grasslands by 2030.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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