Cochrane is known for its famous Mackay’s Ice Cream and jaw-dropping views of the Bow River Valley. To preserve its natural beauty, Cochrane is doing something smart by forming a Natural Environment Protection Task Force.
The NEP Task Force will identify and prioritize natural areas for preservation or restoration “to protect long-term ecological health, build community resilience, and protect the visual beauty of the community.”
Cochrane councillor Alex Reed introduced the task force idea at a council meeting last spring.
“To me, it means preserving the beauty of Cochrane for generations to come, not only within our boundaries but recognizing that some of these resources straddle out to the Rocky View County, so to work within the town, within the county and the province in doing that,” Reed said.
The Town is seeking four volunteers from the general public to serve on the task force. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone wanting to help shape a sustainable and healthy future for their community.
Cochrane is located 18 km west of Calgary on Treaty 7 lands. In 1881, Senator Matthew Henry Cochrane established Cochrane Ranch, which later became the Town of Cochrane.
The town’s population has exploded in recent times. Over the past 10 years, Cochrane welcomed 15,000 new residents, and with a current population of 35,000, it is one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities.
Rapid growth puts pressure on the natural environment, and Cochrane should be applauded for tackling this challenge.
In addition to four residents, the task force will include two council members and one member of the Cochrane Environmental Action Committee, a local environmental non-profit group.
Once selected, the task force will have work to do. Following the first meeting in January 2025, the group will have two years to meet the following four objectives:
- Provide recommendations and guidance on developing environmental education and stewardship programs through volunteer-driven initiatives in partnership with schools, community groups, and residents.
- Complete an environmental assessment study of Cochrane’s natural areas and provide recommendations to the Council on protected status, policy, or bylaw.
- Provide advice on funding opportunities or partnerships to protect and conserve ecosystems within natural areas of Cochrane.
- Complete an annual report to the Council on the impact of deliverables.
If you are passionate about Cochrane and its natural environment, submit your application to join the task force by Dec. 15.
