Agricultural Disaster Declared

On August 14, 2025, the Municipal District of Spirit River No. 133 announced it has officially declared an Agricultural Disaster due to severe and ongoing drought conditions across the region. This decision, effective August 6, 2025, reflects the dire state of the local agricultural sector.

Precipitation and soil moisture levels in the Peace Region have been consistently low to extremely low, with some areas receiving as little as 30% of their average rainfall this growing season. “Consequently, crop conditions in the Peace Region are rated at 22% good to excellent compared to the regions 10-year average of 66.9%, provincially, the remainder of the province is 68.8% good to excellent,” stated MD of Spirit River Reeve Tony van Rootselaar. Poor pasture conditions are also a major concern for the livestock industry, raising fears about feed availability for the fall and winter. The district also noted moderate to severe grasshopper infestations, which are further stressing crops.

“This crisis has put many producers, particularly livestock producers, in a difficult position forcing them to make tough decisions about the future of their operation,” Reeve van Rootselaar expressed. “The municipality recognizes and is concerned about the economic and mental health impacts multiple years of drought is having on producers.”

In solidarity with other regional municipalities facing similar issues, the district urges both the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada to recognize the severity of this situation and implement a coordinated strategy to support this vital industry and its producers.

The Municipal District of Spirit River No. 133 is committed to advocating for the well-being and prosperity of its agricultural community. The district has contacted the Alberta Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Canadian Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food to request that producers be made eligible for all available assistance and support programs, including the federal Livestock Tax Deferral program.

Producers needing assistance or support are encouraged to contact the Agricultural Services Department at samting@mdspiritriver.ab.ca or (780) 864-3500 ext. 218.