The County of Red Deer is lending a green hand to help acreage owners protect their properties from environmental risks.
Under Green Acreages, the new program announced on Earth Day, property owners will be able to use the county as a resource for ideas on protecting their surroundings from potential risks such as land, air and water contamination.
One of the most common risks is an outdated septic system.
When combined with old or out of use water wells, it can be a major risk factor for ground water contamination.
The county will host workshops and one-on-one consultations with landowners in improving their stewardship.
Two workshops will be offered in May.
The first workshop on May 7 is the Green Acreages — Spring Pruning Workshop at the Lynn Valley Community Hall. The price is $10 per person.
Secondly, on May 13, the Green Acreages — Working Well Workshop is scheduled at the Balmoral Community Hall.
There are more than 6,200 acreages in Red Deer County.
Green Acreages co-ordinator Aimee Delaney said there may be grants available for landowners if they take actions to reduce environmental risks on their properties.
The program is based on the provincial program’s Green Acreages guide.
For more information or to register for the spring pruning workshop, contact Delaney at adelaney@rdcounty.ca or visit www.rdcounty.ca/Agriculture/Conservation.