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Albertans have a strong connection to the land

From native prairie grasslands, to the aspen parkland to the boreal forest, our landscape and environment supports our way of life, our well-being, and our economic prosperity.

How we take care of it now will determine our prosperity and sustainability later. That’s why we are committed to conserving Alberta’s wetlands and grasslands. By working together with landowners, communities, government and partners, we have a better and brighter future ahead – one that is rich in natural assets, resources and biodiversity.

At the kitchen table, farm gate or in the field, DUC’s conservation staff work with farmers and landowners everyday to find the right programs that align with their conservation and business goals.

Alberta by the numbers

We share a common vision to conserve our most valuable natural assets because once they are lost, so too, is our way of life.

2,728 Habitat projects

5,169 Landowner Partners

Advancing Conservation Together

Alberta Landowner Programs

Alberta Hay and Graze Tender Program

Alberta Hay and Graze Tender Program

Sound grazing management of pasture land keeps forage stands healthy and vigorous. It helps with weed control and serves as productive waterfowl habitat. To support local producers, DUC makes land available for haying and/or grazing with annual tenders.

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Wetland Restoration Lease Program

Wetland Restoration Lease Program

The restored area remains under the management of the landowner and can be hayed or grazed but not drained, altered or tilled during the term of the agreement. Landowners receive compensation from DUC for this restriction which could be used by farmers to support new land purchases. The lease program is a very good fit for cattle producers who have drained wetlands on grazing lands.

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Conservation Easements

Conservation Easements

A conservation easement (CE) allows for compatible agricultural land use such as haying and grazing on a property. Because a CE supports the growth of native plants and protects the land’s natural features, perennial cover is maintained and can serve as a sustainable source of forage.

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Forage Program

Forage Program

The DUC forage program provides cash-back incentives on Proven® Seed forage varieties paid at full retail price when producers convert cultivated land to hay or pasture land.

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Revolving Land Conservation Program

Revolving Land Conservation Program

Through this program, DUC purchases land, restores its wetlands and grasslands and then makes it available to buyers on the real estate market with a conservation easement on the title.

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Alberta Wetland Classification System Field Guide

Alberta Wetland Classification System Field Guide

The Alberta Wetland Classification System Field Guide is designed for use in the field and intended for anyone interested in identifying and classifying wetlands in Alberta, from industry and government practitioners to landowners, Indigenous communities and more.

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