Laughing all the Way to the (Grass) Bank

The Marsh conservation property covers 3,000 acres (1,224 hectares) of land along the slopes of Birds Eye Butte, just 1.5 kilometers east of the Waterton Lakes National Park boundary.

From scenic springs to fabulous foothills, the property is home to a diversity of plants, including rare species like Mountain Lady’s-slipper. Not only is the area prime habitat for large carnivores like grizzly bear, several iconic bird species such as red-tailed hawk, sandhill crane, and even long-billed curlew have been spotted on the property.

Thanks to the vision of our partners and the long-term commitment of area ranchers, more than 100 square kilometres (32,000 acres/13,000 hectares) of the stunning landscape bordering Waterton Lakes National Park, including this property, have been protected as conservation lands forever.

Together, we’ll work to remove one mile of old cross-fencing that is no longer needed. By removing the wire, we will reduce the barriers to wildlife moving through the property.

Join NCC conservation staff and Sophie LaRocque from Cloudy Ridge Ranch to get the skinny on the Marsh grass banking project. Grass banking is a relatively new practice where property owners lease land to ranchers at a discount, and in exchange they carry out conservation-related projects on their own pastures. Join us for the day and learn more about this unique community-based conservation initiative!

Contact Kailey Setter: alberta@conservationvolunteers.ca