News

Proper Livestock Mortality Disposal Protects Our Community

The Municipal District of Spirit River #133 recently became aware of livestock mortalities being abandoned under a bridge within the municipality. We would like to remind all livestock owners and producers that disposing of dead animals on public lands, road allowances, under bridges, near waterways, or in other unauthorized locations is not an acceptable method of disposal.

Proper livestock mortality management is important for protecting livestock health, wildlife, water resources, and the environment. Carcasses left in unmanaged areas can attract predators and scavengers, increase the risk of disease transmission, create unpleasant odours, and negatively impact neighbouring properties and public spaces.

Under Alberta’s Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation, livestock mortalities must be disposed of within seven days of death using an approved method. Depending on the circumstances, acceptable disposal methods may include composting, burial, burning, rendering, landfill disposal, or natural disposal under specific conditions.

Many producers have successfully adopted on-farm composting as a practical and environmentally responsible option. When properly managed, composting helps minimize odours, discourages scavengers, and reduces environmental impacts. Technical guides and resources are available to help producers develop effective composting systems and mortality management plans.

For those seeking an off-site disposal option, the Aquatera Waste Management Facility near Grande Prairie accepts both small and large animal carcasses for disposal. Producers are encouraged to contact Aquatera directly to confirm current requirements, fees, and operating hours before transporting livestock mortalities or visit their website @ https://www.aquatera.ca/billing-rates-payments/rates/landfill

Responsible livestock mortality management benefits everyone. By following provincial regulations and approved disposal practices, producers help protect water quality, reduce wildlife conflicts, safeguard livestock health, and preserve the quality of life enjoyed throughout our rural communities.

For more information, visit www.alberta.ca/livestock-mortality-management or contact the MD’s Agriculture Department.

The MD of Spirit River #133 is in search of a qualified driver with a Class 4 licence to operate our Transit Bus, available immediately.

If you are interested in applying, please submit your resume:

By email: mdsr133@mdspiritriver.ab.ca,

In person: 4202 – 50 St in the Town of Spirit River

By mail:   Municipal District of Spirit River #133

4202 – 50 St.

Spirit River, AB  T0H 3G0

Job Description – Transit Bus Driver – May 2026

Resumes will be accepted until a suitable candidate is found.

Thank you for your interest!

This is your final opportunity to share your input on community safety and policing priorities in the MD of Spirit River.

If you’ve been meaning to fill out the survey, now is the time—your feedback will directly help shape local RCMP priorities.

📝 Take the survey now:
👉 https://forms.gle/DHPBmJRyM6GT1H6d9

📅 Closes May 30

Don’t miss your chance to be heard.

Please join Council during their Regular Council meeting on May 27^th @ 9:00 AM, either in person at the MD Administration Office or virtually on Teams.

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 265 752 763 517 63

Passcode: WD2yp3CR

For access to the agenda, click on May 27, 2026 Agenda

Adventure is calling!

Hop aboard for our 2026 Summer Bus Tours and discover hidden gems, fascinating museums, breathtaking scenery, unique attractions, and charming communities across the Peace Country and beyond. From the famous Straw Church and Moonshine Lake to Dunvegan, Dawson Creek, and Tumbler Ridge, there’s a new adventure waiting every week!

Check out the 2026 Summer Bus Tour Schedule to see what exciting places we’ll be heading to.

Let’s make this a summer to remember!!

Heads up, MD of Spirit River Residents

A property assessor will be in the area next week (May 25^th-29^th) completing routine property assessments.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call the Assessor’s Office at Northern Sunrise County at (780)624-0013.

Thanks for your understanding and cooperation!

Celebrating Seniors’ Week in the Central Peace

Seniors’ Week, observed annually during the first full week of June, provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many contributions seniors make to our communities. In 2026, Alberta marks the 40th anniversary of Seniors’ Week, a long-standing tradition dedicated to honouring older adults for their leadership, volunteerism, experience, and commitment to community life.

Seniors play an important role in strengthening communities across the province. They contribute their time and talents through volunteer work, mentorship, community organizations, local events, and countless acts of service that enrich the lives of those around them. Their knowledge, wisdom, and dedication help preserve local history, support community growth, and inspire future generations.

During Seniors’ Week, communities throughout Alberta host events and activities that bring people together to celebrate seniors and acknowledge their lasting impact. It is also a time to express gratitude for the many ways seniors continue to contribute to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of our province.

The Municipal District of Spirit River joins communities across Alberta in recognizing Seniors’ Week and extends its sincere appreciation to all seniors for their invaluable contributions. Their ongoing involvement, generosity, and community spirit help make the MD a welcoming and vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family.

To mark Seniors’ Week, the Central Peace Health & Wellness Coalition and Central Peace FCSS are hosting a celebration at the Woking Multiplex on June 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is open to all seniors in the G5 area and offers an opportunity to connect with others, enjoy community activities, and celebrate the contributions of seniors throughout the region. The Municipal District of Spirit River is pleased to support local participation by providing transportation via its transit bus. Seniors interested in catching a ride are encouraged to contact the MD office at (780) 864-3500 to reserve their spot.

🏡 You’re Invited to the Pleasant View Apartments Open House!

Come take a look inside Spirit River’s beautiful Pleasant View Apartments during our upcoming Open House on Thursday, May 28, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Visitors will have the opportunity to:
✨ Tour the building and available suites
✨ Meet the team
✨ Enjoy refreshments
✨ Learn more about the amenities and community atmosphere

📍 Pleasant View Apartments
5109 – 43 Avenue, Spirit River, Alberta

Whether you’re exploring housing options for yourself or a loved one, or simply curious to see the facility, everyone is welcome to stop by. We look forward to visiting with you!