Rural residents invited to share feedback on livestock

An online survey launched today to gather rural resident feedback on responsible livestock ownership. All rural residents, including acreage owners and agricultural producers both large and small, are invited to provide their feedback on the type and amount of livestock that should be permitted on small rural properties outside of Sherwood Park.

Community questions indicate a need to better understand resident expectations about livestock types and numbers on smaller acreages. Feedback will help Strathcona County find the right balance to support agriculture opportunities and country lifestyle.

The input from this survey and follow up focus groups will inform a proposed new Responsible Livestock Ownership Bylaw, to replace the current Animal Control Bylaw.

Animal Control Bylaw 18-2011 regulates the ownership of domesticated livestock and poultry species within the County. A review of the bylaw and public engagement began in 2016 as part of the Urban Agriculture Strategy development.

Based on research, expert opinion and public input, the recommendations are to develop a bylaw about more than controlling animals. The bylaw will focus on responsible livestock ownership that minimizes disease risk, supports animal welfare, land stewardship and opportunities for agriculture, while maintaining and enhancing liveability for residents. The proposed bylaw is expected to be brought to Council later this year.

The survey is open until August 16. Residents have two options to participate.

SCOOP (Strathcona County Online Opinion Panel)

• Rural residents who are already part of our online community will receive an email inviting them to participate.
• Residents are invited to join SCOOP at any time, an online community where you can share your thoughts on a wide range of topics.
• For more information, or to join SCOOP, go to strathcona.ca/SCOOP. 

Online survey

• Take the survey online
• The survey is open to Strathcona County residents who live outside of Sherwood Park.

Information on the Animal Control Bylaw

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of refining in Western Canada. Strathcona County is a leader in environmental conservation, and 55 per cent of its land is within the UNESCO Beaver Hills Biosphere. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.

- 30 –

Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595