Okotoks

A historic ranch spanning more than 2,4000 acres could become part of a large, protected area.

Nature Conservancy Canada and the Waldron Grazing Co-operative are partnering to conserve Bob Creek Ranch, but they are needing some support to help finish the project.

The Bob Creek Ranch is located just off the Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) and spans more than 1,000 hectares (over 2,400 acres).

With summer in full swing, there are ways to stay cool in High River.

The Town of High River has cooling stations set up to help people find relief during any extreme temperature the area may experience this summer.

When there are high temperatures, the Town is reminding people to stay hydrated and safe, and when possible, plan ahead to minimize the amount of time spent outdoors.

On top of drinking a lot of water, it's advised to not leave people or pets in a vehicle, and make sure they are hydrated.

A local artist is not only selling her barn quilts at markets all summer, but they will also be on display at the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.

According to Jane Morgan, around 25 years ago, a lady in Ohio known as Donna Sue Groves wanted to do something special for her mother, Maxine, who was a distinguished quilter.

An Alberta First Nation is asking a judge to review the provincial government's decision earlier this year to end its moratorium on coal mining.

In an application for judicial review filed this week, Siksika Nation says Alberta failed in its duty to consult when in January it lifted its moratorium on new coal mining projects on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains.

Siksika Nation, 95 kilometres east of Calgary, says the effects of coal mining in the Rockies threaten Treaty rights and the land that supports its livelihood.

It’s Stampede season, and local spots are serving family-friendly Pancake Breakfasts packed with live music, petting zoos, line dancing, and community spirit.   

Here's your guide to make the most of the festivities:  

Saturday, July 5   

County of Newell takes over Crop Diversification Centre South and hopes to attract dozens of tenants for the $100 million facility

Like the mighty Phoenix, the County of Newell is hoping the Crop Diversification Centre South in Brooks, Alta., will rise from the ashes and regain the prominence it once had in agricultural research.

It's pancake breakfast season in the Foothills, with many free breakfasts for everyone to enjoy.

Until noon today (July 4), Hub Town Brewing is hosting a pancake breakfast in their parking lot.

MP John Barlow is in attendance to lend a hand, and there's live music and fun to be had.

Scroll down for a look at the action.

The Town of Claresholm is reminding residents to take steps to ensure they are being good neighbours. 

The town shared ways residents can ensure they are good neighbours in a Facebook post, such as keeping their property clean, and being considerate of others.  

The Okotoks Dawgs of the WCBL picked up another win on Thursday night, this time it was on the road in Swift Current.

They dropped the 57s 5-2 to record their ninth win in a row.

The Dawgs are now sitting in first place in the West Division with a two-and-a-half game lead on the Lethbridge Bulls. 

Both teams hit the ball diamond again tonight in Swift Current before the team hops back on the bus to Okotoks.

June brought its share of thunderstorm activity to the Prairies.

The Canadian Crop Hail Association says mid-June thunderstorms damaged crops across Western Canada, dropping pea- to toonie-sized hail.
 
CCHA member companies are investigating more than 900 claims of crop damage from hailstorms that occurred June 13-20. The majority of the claims were filed in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Farmers have been out evaluating crop damage to determine the impact, as some crops can recover depending on the damage and the stage of the crop.