MATTHEIS RANCH

Western Sky Land Trust recently completed a conservation easement (CE) for the Mattheis Ranch, a 12,000 acre research facility donated to the University of Alberta by Ruth and Edwin Mattheis. It is home to the Rangeland Research Institute (RRI), which conducts innovative research on grassland ecology, land reclamation and grazing systems.​

NUTRIEN NODWELL NATURE PRESERVE

In 2008, Western Sky formally launched the Nutrien Nodwell Nature Preserve. Located along a stretch of the Bow River deemed by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation to be of national significance, this beautiful preserve provides habitat to 300 native plant varieties and a wide array of wildlife. This project speaks to the power of partnerships and a knowledgeable approach to land assessment and management.

HIGHWOOD RIDGE FARM

Western Sky was the fortunate beneficiary of a generous and timely land donation from local philanthropists Myron and Elaine Semkuley. Located along the Highwood River southeast of Calgary, Highwood Ridge Farm came to fruition in the late fall of 2010, with 133 acres of picturesque riverfront land conserved in perpetuity. It will continue to be managed for its outstanding natural value and as productive farmland.

BRUCE ISLANDS

Bruce Islands is another conservation success thanks to an anonymous donor who donated a number of islands, covering nearly 60 acres. Bruce Islands adds to the contiguous conservation lands including Wyndham-Carseland Provincial Park and Western Sky's Agrium Nodwell Nature Preserve.

GRACE UPON GRACE

The aptly named Grace Upon Grace is a beautiful parcel of windswept land located along the south side of the Bow River. The family gifted their heritage land to Western Sky to ensure its perpetual conservation and as a reflection of their close spiritual connection to nature. Pictured here, the 160 acres of grasslands and forested river valley, offers lovely scenic vistas and a rich diversity of wildlife.

BOW & BEYOND INITIATIVE

The Bow River is a very important natural icon in Alberta, attracting both residents and international visitors to its beautiful natural features and recreational opportunities. It is also a vital resource for drinking water, agriculture and wildlife habitat.