News
Public Notice – Central Peace Regional Waterworks System
In accordance with the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA), Saddle Hills County has applied to Alberta Environment for an approval to construct and operate the Central Peace Regional Waterworks System. The application is for the construction of three (3) raw water reservoirs and two (2) process waste ponds. The operation is located at NE 25-078-06-W6M.
For full details, click on Central Peace Regional Waterworks System
May 13, 2026 – Regular Council Meeting
Please join Council during their Regular Council meeting on May 13th @ 9:00 AM, either in person at the MD Administration Office or virtually on Teams.
Meeting ID: 220 505 280 799 48
Passcode: wi3tD3hB
For access to the agenda, click on May 13, 2026 Agenda
Fire Advisory in Effect
04-DP-26 & 05-DP-26 Notice of Development Permit Approvals
Safety & Policing Survey Extended
🚨 Help Shape Policing in the MD of Spirit River 🚨
Rural living comes with its own set of challenges—and we want to hear from you.
The MD of Spirit River is working with the RCMP to identify local policing priorities, and your input will help ensure those priorities reflect what’s actually happening across our farms and acreages.
Whether it’s break-ins, fuel theft, suspicious activity, or response times—your feedback matters.
📝 Take a few minutes to complete the survey:
👉 https://forms.gle/DHPBmJRyM6GT1H6d9
✔ Anonymous
✔ Open to all residents
✔ Helps guide RCMP priorities
To accommodate the Spirit of the Peace newsletter readers, we have extended the deadline.
📅 New Deadline: May 30, 2026
Spirit of the Peace April Issue
The April 2026 issue of the Spirit of the Peace Newsletter is now available online for your reading pleasure.
Click on the following link for access:
Emergency Preparedness Week
Emergency Preparedness Week: May 3–9, 2026
Be Prepared. Know Your Risks.
Emergency Preparedness Week is a national campaign held each year during the first week of May, encouraging Canadians to take simple, practical steps to be better prepared for emergencies. This year, it runs from May 3–9, 2026 and focuses on the theme: “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks.”
Emergencies can happen anytime—whether it’s wildfires, severe weather, power outages, or other unexpected events. While we can’t prevent every situation, we can take steps to reduce risk and protect ourselves, our families, and our community.
🚨 Why Emergency Preparedness Matters
Preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about confidence. When you know what to do and have the right tools in place, you can respond quickly and safely when it matters most.
Emergency preparedness is also a shared responsibility. When individuals and households are ready, it helps build a stronger, more resilient community for everyone.
✅ 5 Simple Steps to Get Started
Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with these key actions:
1. Know Your Risks
Understanding the risks specific to our region—such as wildfires, flooding, or extreme weather—helps you plan effectively.
2. Make a Plan
Create a household emergency plan so everyone knows what to do, where to go, and who to contact in an emergency.
3. Build a 72-Hour Emergency Kit
Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Include essentials like water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
4. Stay Informed
Sign up for local alerts and follow trusted information sources so you can act quickly during an emergency.
5. Connect with Your Community
Check in on neighbours, especially those who may need extra support. Strong community connections make a big difference during emergencies.
🌾 Preparedness in Our Rural Communities
In rural areas, emergency response times may be longer, making personal preparedness even more important. Having a plan, supplies, and awareness of local risks can help ensure you and your family stay safe during unexpected situations.
📣 Take Action This Week
Emergency Preparedness Week is the perfect time to:
- Review or create your emergency plan
- Check and update your emergency kit
- Talk with your family about what to do in an emergency
- Learn about risks specific to our area
Preparedness is a journey—it doesn’t happen all at once. Even small steps can make a big difference.
For more information and resources, visit:
👉 https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness
RAS Scholarship Now Open
Rycroft Agricultural Society Scholarships – Now Accepting Applications
The Rycroft Agricultural Society is proud to support local youth by offering two annual scholarships to students in the G5 region, including the MD of Spirit River, Saddle Hills County, and Birch Hills County.
These scholarships—named in honour of long-standing community members Joy and Eric Astell—recognize students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, community involvement, and a passion for building a future in key sectors that support our rural communities.
🎓 Scholarship Details
- Value: Two scholarships of $1,500 each
- Eligibility:
- Graduating high school students
- Pursuing post-secondary education in:
- Agriculture
- Veterinary studies
- Trades
- Business
- Additional Requirements:
- Strong academic standing
- Demonstrated commitment to community involvement
- Submission of a personal essay
📅 How to Apply
Students are encouraged to complete the application form and submit all required documents prior to the annual deadline.
👉 Apply for the Rycroft Agricultural Society Scholarship
Applications can be submitted as outlined in the application package.
🌱 Investing in Our Future
The Rycroft Agricultural Society continues to play an important role in supporting youth and strengthening our rural communities. These scholarships are an excellent opportunity for local students to take the next step in their education while staying connected to the industries that help our region thrive.
For more information, visit the scholarship page:
👉 Learn more about the scholarships
April 22, 2026 – Regular Council Meeting
Please join Council during their Regular Council meeting on April 8th @ 9:00 AM, either in person at the MD Administration Office or virtually on Teams.
Meeting ID: 265 752 763 517 63
Passcode: WD2yp3CR
For access to the agendas, click on April 22, 2026 Agenda & April 22, 2026 Addendum
Special Meeting – April 27, 2026
Reeve Tony van Rootselaar has called for a special council meeting to be held on April 27, 2026, at 9:00AM.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/21589651981174?p=Vog2kVRCsLPTHGt66J
Meeting ID: 215 896 519 811 74
Passcode: 47Zi2in3
To view the agenda details, click on Notice of Special Meeting









