Cochrane

The provincial government recently announced two conservation programs: the Private Land Conservation Program and Ecosystems Grant Program 

The government of Alberta is investing $10 million to improve private land conservation, with the launch of two new and improved programs.

The enhanced Private Land Conservation Program and the new Ecosystems Grant Program will enable better protection of natural areas across the province, while allowing landowners to use their land for farming and ranching, the province has said.

An Ontario judge is delivering her ruling in the sexual assault trial for five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team.

Content warning: This live blog includes graphic descriptions of sexual acts and explicit testimony from a court proceeding that some readers may find disturbing or triggering. Reader discretion is advised.

A severe thunderstorm watch is once again in effect for the Cochrane area, as forecasters warn of potentially dangerous weather conditions developing this afternoon and evening.

Environment Canada says thunderstorms are expected to form over western and central Alberta and could become severe, bringing strong wind gusts, large hail, and heavy downpours. Any storms that develop are expected to move east or southeast through the evening and overnight hours.

Forecasters caution that severe thunderstorms can also produce tornadoes.

Quick-thinking tips led to the arrest of two adults from Mînî Thnî, who now face multiple charges after allegedly spray painting buildings in Cochrane on July 23.

Just before 2 p.m., police responded to reports of two people vandalizing doors and walls. A witness provided a description, and a second caller reported damage to an adjacent building.

A donation from House of Cars Cochrane has brought Cochrane Search and Rescue (SAR) one step closer to its fundraising goal to replace and upgrade an aging rescue unit.

The local car dealership set aside a portion of proceeds from each vehicle sold in June, resulting in a $1,350 donation to SAR.

“This support means more than words can express,” said SAR vice-president Yolanda Martens van Hilst. “We are so thankful to House of Cars and the community for this support, because this contribution will go directly to our fleet improvement project.”

Despite unpredictable weather and a few tense moments, the second annual Bow Valley Boot Stomp went ahead over the weekend, bringing together music lovers, volunteers, and a resilient team of organizers determined to keep the good times rolling.

“It was challenging, that’s the best word for it,” said Kailey Mitchell, CEO of Quirk Social and the event’s lead organizer. “You spend months planning, but the weather is the one thing you can’t control. Still, it was really awesome to see everyone come together.”

The Cochrane Generals have set their sights on the 2025-26 season, starting with four exhibition games in early September.

The Gens' 36-game Heritage Junior Hockey League regular season schedule opens with a bang on Sept. 19 on the road against the four-time defending champion Okotoks Bisons. Their home opener follows on Sept. 27 against the Strathmore Wheatland Kings.

Construction to connect a new sanitary sewer main for the future Horse Creek Sports Park and high school site is underway and will impact parts of the Heritage Hills neighbourhood and traffic along Horse Creek Road for the next couple of weeks.

The Town of Cochrane says the project will require the closure of the intersection at Heritage Boulevard and Horse Creek Road, along with a section of Heritage Boulevard itself. The closure is expected to last about two weeks.

Cochrane RCMP and the Southern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society (SARVSS) are expressing their gratitude after receiving a heartwarming donation aimed at supporting those impacted by trauma.

Local resident Peggy Doyle recently dropped off a generous supply of cozy blankets at the Cochrane detachment. The blankets will be distributed by SARVSS to individuals facing crisis situations, offering a small but meaningful source of comfort during difficult times.