Common Mullein is a noxious weed spreading across Alberta, often found in disturbed areas like roadsides, pastures, and railroads. Early detection and management are essential. How to identify it: Large, soft, gray-green, fuzzy leaves arranged in a rosette at the base Tall flowering stalks that can...
Article by Amanda Jorgensen, M.Sc., ATT Insect Management Specialist, Alberta Agriculture & Irrigation Warm conditions last fall mean that cutworms and grasshoppers had an ideal egg laying period. Even with a cool, slow spring, there still is risk from these species. Grasshoppers Grasshopper numbers were high in Special...
Effective Thursday, May 28th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. all loading restrictions are removed, with the exception of: a specific oiled road in Special Areas 2 restricting bus, truck and trailer traffic to Ninety percent (90%) of authorized load limits except as allowed under the act or...
It's Weed Wednesday! Let's talk about Scentless Chamomile. Scentless Chamomile is a noxious weed spreading across Alberta, especially in disturbed areas like roadsides, fields, and pastures. Early detection is key! How to identify it: Daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers (but unlike true chamomile, it...
Special Areas roadside grass control (cutting ditches) for local roads will begin on June 8. Requests to hay your ditch must be submitted to your local District Office as soon as possible. This will allow our road crew to plan their work accordingly. Roadside grass control...
This weeks Weed Wednesday feature is Black Henbane! Black Henbane is a POISONOUS noxious weed showing up across Alberta, especially in disturbed areas like roadsides, yards, and pastures. Early detection is key! How to identify it: Sticky, hairy leaves with a strong, unpleasant odor Pale yellow flowers...
Tax and Assessment Notices for property held in the Special Areas were mailed May 15, 2026 in accordance with Sections 308 and 311 of the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26, R.S.A. 2000. Any person who wishes to object to the assessment for any property must...
After the success of last year’s first-ever Resident Satisfaction Survey, Special Areas is once again inviting residents to share their thoughts and experiences. Your feedback matters. It helps the Special Areas Advisory Council and Board set priorities, improve programs, and plan for the future of our...
Special Areas Fire Services and Hanna Fire Department members were excited to host a local Emergency Preparedness and Fire Safety Day on May 6, 2026, in Hanna, AB in collaboration with Prairie Land School Division. With 230 students from grades 4 to 9 attending from Berry...
2026 Annual Ratepayer Meetings Are Coming to Your Community! Special Areas is hitting the road this spring! Our 2026 Annual Ratepayer Meetings take place throughout May and June. With more than 1,200 kilometres traveled, this annual “tour” brings Advisory Councillors and Special Areas staff directly to...