Investing in ag societies and local communities

A new capital grant will help Alberta’s agricultural societies with facility repairs and upgrades

Alberta’s government is launching the Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program, a new capital grant that allocates $2.5 million annually to help ag societies update existing facilities.

These buildings are central hubs in their communities, offering residents and visitors opportunities to gather, build connections and engage with their neighbours. Alberta’s communities need effective, up-to-date facilities to encourage community involvement and growth.

Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson meets with Barb Parker, vice-president of the Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society and Brett Warder, president of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies. SUBMITTED PHOTO

“Facilities like community halls, ice rinks and rodeo grounds are integral to the successful operation of Alberta’s ag societies. This funding makes sure rural communities can continue to benefit from the events, services, educational programs and volunteer opportunities that agricultural societies provide.”

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

The program will allow agricultural societies to address issues related to aging infrastructure, ultimately extending the useful life of their community buildings. Applications for eligible projects open on Oct. 5 and the grant can be used to make improvements including roof repairs, accessibility enhancements, heating upgrades and window installations.

“Events like rural fairs, farmers’ markets and rodeos support community building and agricultural improvement across rural Alberta. This government funding will help agricultural societies keep their facilities modern, accessible and safe for generations to come.”

Brett Warder, president, Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies

“More than 100,000 people pass through our society’s gates every year for events, programs and rentals. Our ag society has been around for more than a century, so this new grant will be a key support in making much-needed upgrades. We are extremely grateful to the Government of Alberta for this investment.”

Barb Parker, vice-president, Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society

The program builds upon the Government of Alberta’s existing Agricultural Societies Grant Program, which provides annual funding to support agricultural societies’ operational expenses.

Quick facts

• The Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program grant awards between $10,000 and $100,000 for individual projects

• Alberta has 290 agricultural societies, the highest number in Canada

• Alberta’s agricultural societies own or operate more than 900 facilities and host more than 37,000 activities and events per year.

• The oldest agricultural societies date back to 1879, predating the province.