Endangered habitats in my own backyard: Conserving rare grasslands
Rachel Agnes Hayes, AB (Sean Feagan/NCC)
Some of Canada’s rarest and most endangered Prairie grassland habitats can be found in the Red Deer region of Alberta, where I perform conservation work for the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).
The rolling plains of central Alberta were once covered by wide areas of native grasslands. These grasslands, dominated by a species of grass called plains rough fescue, have largely disappeared, having been converted for other land uses, impacted by development and encroached upon by invasive species. According to the Alberta Prairie Conservation Forum, only 19 per cent of Alberta’s Central Parkland Natural Subregion (which encompasses the Red Deer area) features natural vegetation, including grasslands. If we want to keep what remains of these rare and important habitats, now is the time to act.
Fyten Lea, AB (Photo Sean Feagan/NCC)
The importance of grasslands
Rough fescue grasslands are vibrant ecosystems that provide many benefits for both people and wildlife. From sharp-tailed grouse to the threatened Sprague’s pipit, many species rely on grasslands for survival. With grasslands disappearing, Prairie songbirds have seen staggering declines — some by as much as 90 per cent since 1970. Grasslands provide us food by providing rangeland for cattle and habitat for pollinators, and they also help prevent soil erosion, improve water flow, and help keep rivers and streams clean. Yet, these landscapes are fragile. Once disturbed, they are incredibly difficult to restore. It’s much easier to conserve what remains, but we only have one chance to do it.
This is why conservation efforts in the Red Deer area are so crucial, and they’re making a real difference. Since 1992, NCC has worked with landowners and partners in the Red Deer Natural Area to conserve more than 5,500 hectares.
Moose (Sean Feagan/NCC)
Progress through partnerships
Local ranchers are also key to conservation here. Sustainable grazing mimics the natural movement of bison herds, which helps keep invasive species in check, prevents trees and shrubs from taking over, and helps maintain plant diversity. Because grasslands evolved in response to grazing, NCC offers grazing opportunities to local ranchers to ensure this important ecological process continues at our properties, supporting the health of the ecosystems they contain.
Many landowners have also partnered with conservation organizations through voluntary conservation agreements, ensuring their grasslands stay intact while still allowing for cattle production. Across Alberta, NCC has worked with landowners to conserve more than 87,000 hectares of natural habitat through 168 agreements: proof that collaborative conservation works.
Red Deer River, Fyten Lee, AB (Sean Feagan/NCC)
Protecting grasslands isn’t just for conservation groups or scientists. We can all help. If you own grasslands, consider working with an organization like NCC to conserve your land for future generations.
Grasslands aren’t just worth saving, they’re also worth exploring. Visit an NCC property through Connect2Nature.ca, wander through the forests of Kelly Ranches, gaze across the Red Deer River from Fyten Lea or listen for the delicate song of Sprague’s pipits at Ferrier. This summer, you can even roll up your sleeves at a Conservation Volunteers event in the Red Deer area and help remove invasive species, dismantle old fences or lend a hand with restoration efforts. Every action, big or small, makes a difference.
Let’s celebrate the beauty and the quiet magic of our disappearing grasslands. Step outside, get involved and be part of the solution. And if you’re looking for even more ways to connect, visit prairiegrasslands.ca and discover the stories, the science and how you can help conserve one of Canada’s most endangered ecosystems.
About the Author
Jessica Hayes is NCC’s Central Alberta natural area manager, where she manages stewardship activities on NCC properties and conservation agreements in the Red Deer River Natural Area.
