Protecting Alberta’s Water: The Mighty Peace Watershed Alliance’s Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture

Water is the foundation of life, shaping our landscapes, ecosystems, and communities. For the Mighty Peace Watershed Alliance (MPWA), water is also at the heart of their mission—to protect and manage Alberta’s watersheds while working hand-in-hand with farmers, landowners, and conservation groups to create sustainable agricultural practices.

The Mighty Peace Watershed spans an immense area in northwestern Alberta, feeding into major water systems that support local agriculture, communities, and biodiversity. With growing concerns around water conservation, quality, and long-term sustainability, MPWA has stepped up to ensure that responsible water management remains a priority.

Working With Farmers to Promote Sustainable Water Practices

Agriculture and water are deeply intertwined. At MPWA, they understand that supporting farmers in their water stewardship efforts is critical. One of the key ways they do this is through Environmental Farm Plans (EFPs). These voluntary and free programs help producers assess environmental risks on their farms and develop site-specific strategies to address them.

“Creating an Environmental Farm Plan improves water quality and availability, builds healthy and resilient ecosystems, and increases resilience to drought, floods, and disease,” explains an MPWA representative.

Farmers who participate in the EFP program receive guidance from a trained technician, ensuring their plans are both practical and beneficial for their land and water resources. By implementing water conservation techniques, farmers not only secure their livelihoods but also contribute to the overall health of the watershed.

Riparian Management: Nature’s Water Filter

Another crucial initiative led by MPWA focuses on riparian areas—the natural buffer zones where land meets water. These areas play a vital role in protecting Alberta’s waterways by filtering sediments, stabilizing banks, and providing essential habitat for diverse wildlife.

“Riparian areas are a hot spot for biodiversity,” MPWA explains. “They trap sediments, store water, reduce flood risks, and create a thriving environment for plants and animals.”

Through education and collaboration, MPWA works with landowners to restore and protect these critical areas. Whether by planting native vegetation, preventing overgrazing, or implementing responsible development practices, maintaining healthy riparian zones helps sustain clean water for generations to come.

Dugouts: Storing Water for Dry Seasons

Water availability is one of the biggest challenges facing Alberta’s farmers, especially with unpredictable climate patterns. Dugouts—man-made reservoirs that collect and store water—offer a reliable solution. However, proper planning is key to ensuring they remain effective and sustainable.

MPWA provides guidance on dugout construction, covering essential factors such as location, size, aeration, and off-site watering systems to prevent contamination. Healthy riparian zones around dugouts also improve water quality, reducing sediment buildup and enhancing overall water retention.

By taking proactive steps in water storage and conservation, farmers can better manage their water supply during dry spells while minimizing environmental impact.

Protecting Water Wells and Rural Communities

For rural communities and small-acreage owners, well water is often the primary source of drinking water. MPWA stresses the importance of well maintenance to ensure clean, safe water for households and farms.

“Proper well maintenance is critical for household health. A good well design, regular testing for coliform bacteria, and annual disinfection can prevent contamination,” MPWA advises.

Educating landowners about well safety ensures that groundwater remains unpolluted, safeguarding drinking water for rural families and agricultural operations alike.

Looking to the Future: A Shared Responsibility

At the core of MPWA’s mission is the belief that everyone has a role to play in protecting Alberta’s water resources. From farmers implementing conservation strategies to landowners maintaining healthy riparian zones, small efforts add up to create a significant impact.

Programs like Green Acreages, offered in collaboration with the Land Stewardship Centre, provide additional support for small-acreage owners and hobby farmers. These initiatives empower individuals to adopt sustainable land management practices, helping protect air, soil, water, and wildlife.

Through education, collaboration, and proactive water management, MPWA is shaping a future where Alberta’s watersheds remain healthy, resilient, and abundant. Their commitment to working with farmers and landowners ensures that both agriculture and the environment can thrive together.

The 2025 Alberta Open Farm Days will be taking place on August 16 & 17th. Until then, be sure to follow along on our website and social media channels for more farm stories, updates, and inspiring conservation efforts!