County of Grande Prairie Declares Agricultural Disaster

County of Grande Prairie Declares Agricultural Disaster

Council has declared an agricultural disaster in the County of Grande Prairie due to ongoing and severe drought conditions and low soil moisture levels affecting the region. 

The decision comes at a critical stage in the growing season which is already showing significantly reduced hay harvests, poor tame pasture conditions, and marginal annual crop conditions. Reduced yields and quality are expected across the board for 2025. 

The effects of another difficult growing season are being felt in local communities. Council’s decision reflects significant concerns for the livestock industry, specifically related to feed resources headed into the fall and winter months. Lack of water for livestock is another increasing issue being reported, along with the presence of grasshoppers which are further pressuring and stressing crops this year. 

“Extended dry weather and drought conditions over the past two growing seasons have significantly impacted local agricultural businesses,” said Reeve Marshall. “By issuing this declaration, we are helping bring attention to the current severe drought conditions impacting crop and livestock producers in the region.”

The County joins other municipalities in Alberta and Western Canada with this declaration, urging the provincial and federal governments to take a coordinated approach to supporting the industry and individual producers.

“Another poor year will worsen the challenging times producers in our municipality have faced in recent years, with many facing tough decisions on the future of their operations,” said Reeve Marshall. “It’s important that we present the seriousness of the situation to the provincial and federal governments to help ensure our producers receive the necessary support they require.”

The County of Grande Prairie previously declared an agricultural disaster in 2024 due to poor crop yields because of extreme drought conditions. 

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Media Contact:
Bob Marshall
Reeve
780-933-2053

Joulia Whittleton  
County Manager  
780-532-9722