Operation Grassland Community
Empowering landholders with sustainable land management techniques to enhance grasslands and protect endangered species
About
Developed in 1989, Operation Grassland Community (OGC) is a stewardship program that works directly with landholders in Alberta to secure and enhance prairie wildlife habitats for species at risk.
OGC believes that prairie habitats can be wisely used, ensuring the sustainability of both wildlife habitats and agricultural livelihoods. Over the last few decades, OGC has established voluntary stewardship agreements with hundreds of landholders who are voluntarily protecting over 900,000 acres of native prairie habitat in Southern Alberta.
Since 2003, OGC has partnered with dedicated members to implement various habitat enhancement projects and implement management plans for one or more of OGC’s priority species. Furthermore, OGC members participate in annual wildlife surveys including those for Burrowing Owl and Loggerhead Shrike. Visit www.grasslandcommunity.org for more information.
The grassland region of Alberta is among the most intensively utilized landscapes in the world. It makes up only 14% of Alberta’s land base, yet it contains more than 75% of Alberta’s species at risk. Because 95% of this land-base is privately owned or managed, protection of wildlife and their habitats clearly requires full consideration of socio-economic realities.
OGC has successfully created “win-win” outcomes, delivering habitat enhancement projects to benefit many wildlife species while realizing economic benefits to the landholder.
Overview
Long-term protection of wildlife habitat in the grassland region. Through voluntary stewardship agreements, facilitating conservation easements, and beneficial management plans (i.e., SARC Plans).
Increased awareness of prairie wildlife habitat needs, habitat conservation, and sustainable agricultural practices. Though Education and outreach (newsletters, media, presentations, factsheets, on-farm visits).
Improved and enhanced grassland quality. Assist landholders with implementation of sustainable land management techniques for habitats on their lands.
Maintain and increase prairie conservation partnerships.
