Bylaw Restricting the use of Fertilizers

Update: October 4, 2024

Council held a Public Hearing for Bylaw 2024-16 on September 24, 2024. Council debated and motioned to defeat the bylaw restricting the use of fertilizers by waterbodies. In its place, Parkland County will undertake an awareness and education program on the use of fertilizer near water bodies.

Bylaw Restricting Use of Fertilizers by Waterbodies in Parkland County

Parkland County is considering a Bylaw which will restrict the use of fertilizers in any subdivision adjacent to a Parkland County waterbody.

What exactly are we proposing to do?

The Bylaw will restrict the use of fertilizers, which are defined as any substances that contain nitrogen, potassium, or any other chemicals that are used as plant nutrients or to aid in plant growth.

Who will this impact?

This will directly impact any resident living in a subdivision or hamlet adjacent to a waterbody in Parkland County. “Waterbody” refers to any location where standing or flowing surface water is present, permanent, and naturally occurring; including, but not limited to: lakes, wetlands, streams, and rivers. Please refer to the Appendix A attachment for a complete listing of subdivisions and municipal addresses affected by the proposed bylaw.

Note that exceptions are proposed for agriculture producers and commercial operations.

Why are we doing this?

The reason for doing this is to protect the health of our lakes by reducing the use of chemicals around waterbodies. Fertilizers increase the level of nutrients in the water which results in increased growth of aquatic plants and vegetation at faster rates, therefore depleting the lake of oxygen. Further effects on waterbodies include dead zones, fish dying, and algae blooming.

How are we proposing to do this?

Parkland County is proposing to put a Bylaw in place which will restrict the use of fertilizers in any subdivision adjacent to a Parkland County waterbody.

Where are we at in the process?

All Bylaws require three readings by Council. For a Bylaw to be put into effect, it requires an initial First Reading. This proposed Bylaw received First Reading June 11, 2024. Feedback is encouraged from residents which will be reviewed at or during a Public Hearing which is taking place on Tuesday, September 24 at 9:30 a.m.

Changes can be made by Council after each reading up to the third and final Reading. The third and final reading is scheduled for October 22, 2024. As part of this process, Council can implement changes to the Bylaw through the Reading processes.

What can I do if I wish to provide feedback or comment?

There are a few options for you, including:

• Submit comments directly through this section of the website.
  • Information will be compiled and shared anonymously with Council as part of the Second Reading presentation.
• Formal feedback can be provided by taking part in the Public Hearing on September 24^th.
  • Comments can be made either in formal writing, or by attending the Public Hearing in person and speaking directly to Council.
  • To participate, in writing or in person at the Public Hearing, please contact the County at 780-968-8471 or email governanceagendas@parklandcounty.com