Local Hero: Lacombe County Resident Celebrated for Outstanding Environmental Stewardship

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Local Hero: Lacombe County Resident Celebrated for Outstanding Environmental Stewardship

At the January 9 meeting, Lacombe County Council honored Nick Harper with the Environmental Stewardship Award. This award highlights his impressive efforts in sustainability and caring for the environment.

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Each year, the award goes to a local resident or organization that shows a strong dedication to protecting and improving our natural surroundings. A special committee, including the county’s environmental coordinator, a councillor, and the prior year’s winner, helps choose the recipient.

Nick Harper, a Restoration Ecologist with expertise in land conservation, has done remarkable work in restoring and preserving nature. On his family’s land, he has launched several impactful projects:

  • Reforestation projects: He has planted over 150 native trees, such as trembling aspen and white spruce, to boost biodiversity and restore habitats.

  • Pond restoration: Nick has fenced off a small pond to protect it from grazing animals. He planted about 40 willow shrubs to stabilize the shoreline and set up a watering system for livestock.

  • Sustainable grazing practices: He promotes environmentally friendly land management through rotational grazing and natural weed control, which helps improve soil health.

Lacombe County hopes this award will encourage others to take action for the environment and safeguard it for future generations. Along with the honor, Nick also received a $1,500 cash prize.

**Information courtesy of Lacombe County

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