Lacombe

Environment Canada has issued a frost advisory for parts of Central Alberta, warning that overnight temperatures could dip to around 0 C.

Frost may damage crops and other frost-sensitive vegetation. Residents are advised to take preventative measures to protect plants and trees.

The advisory is in effect for the following areas:

• Clearwater County near Rocky Mountain House and Crimson Lake 

• Clearwater County near Caroline and James River Bridge 

• Mountain View County near Sundre

Back-to-school shopping can be stressful for families trying to get all the necessary supplies while staying on budget.

Lacombe and District FCSS is aiming to ease that burden through its annual Tools for School program.

Students living in Lacombe, Lacombe County, Mirror, Tees, Alix and Clive are eligible to apply for school supplies or a certificate toward a new pair of shoes.

The program helps ensure students have the tools they need to succeed and feel confident on the first day of school.

The deadline to apply is July 31.

One year to the day a wind-whipped fire forced thousands to flee in the dark of night along one smoke-choked road, the mayor of Jasper acknowledged it was a day of remembrance that some would much rather forget.

Company works with Farming Smarter Association as it searches for options other than the century-old Russet Burbank variety.

Russet Burbank has been the go to potato variety for Canadian farmers and consumers.

This year, McCain Foods in Chin, Alta., has entered a corporate partnership with the Farming Smarter Association to explore the viability of other varieties in its food processing plant for farmers to consider.

Farming Smarter is using one of its commercial plots to do a research trial growing four varieties using six treatments.

RCMP in Wetaskiwin have found a missing 30-year-old woman.

Geri Whitebear was located safely after being reported missing on July 21.

Police had concern for her safety and well-being.

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The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan has written to the federal government asking for emergency use of strychnine to control gophers
 

The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan wants strychnine reinstated under emergency use provisions.

The organization has asked the federal agriculture and health ministers to “urgently” consider the request.

APAS said there is a significant uncontrolled increase in the population of Richardson’s ground squirrels costing about $9 million a year.

Firm behind plan to build Saskatchewan fertilizer plant had to recently deal with former CEO’s financial problems

 It is full steam ahead at Genesis Fertilizers despite a tumultuous June, say proponents of the proposed Saskatchewan mega-project.

“It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when we get this project off the ground,” said Terry Drabiuk, vice-president of business development with Genesis.

The project is a proposed $2.89 billion, farmer-owned nitrogen fertilizer plant to be built in Belle Plaine, Sask.

Trail users will notice a fresh new look along the Blackfalds-Lacombe Connector section of the Trans Canada Trail, thanks to recently installed interpretive panels by Lacombe County.

The updated signs feature educational and engaging content about the surrounding area, highlighting native plants and wildlife, local ecosystems, and insights from the nearby Lacombe Research and Development Centre.

Visitors are encouraged to take a moment during their walk or ride to learn more about the natural features and scientific work that shape the region.

Wolf Creek Public Schools has appointed Brian Grocholski as the new assistant principal of Alix-MAC School, starting in the 2025–26 school year.

Grocholski is an experienced educator with more than 21 years of service in K–12 settings and has taught at Alix-MAC School since 2014. He has led initiatives in literacy, student leadership, and experiential learning.

The Town of Olds has officially opened its new administration office, now called the Olds Municipal Centre, at 3501 70 Avenue — just north of the Rotary Athletic Park. 

The facility, formerly known as the Operations Centre, is now open to the public for all in-person services, including tax payments, permits and utilities.