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1. What is Clubroot of Canola?

Clubroot is a serious soil-borne disease of crucifer crops. The crucifer family includes vegetable crops like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower as well as field crops such as canola and mustard. Clubroot attacks the root system of these plants and restricts sufficient water and nutrients for above-ground plant parts.

2. How does Clubroot Disease spread?

6.3 million spores per gram of soil.
Clubroot can only spread through resting spores in the soil. These resting spores are most likely to spread by contaminated soil carried from field to field by equipment, but can also be contributed to the movement of soil by water & wind erosion, soil in hay or straw, wildlife and humans.

3. What is the regulatory status of Clubroot?

Clubroot was added as a declared pest to the Agricultural Pests Act in April 2007. The owner or occupant of land has the responsibility of taking measures to prevent the establishment of any pest on land, property, and livestock, and to control or destroy all pests on the land or property. Enforcement of pest control measures is the responsibility of the municipal authority Kneehill County ASB. By virtue of the office, the Agricultural Fieldman is a pest inspector under the Agricultural Pests Act. Pest inspectors have the power to enter land at any reasonable hour, without permission, to inspect for pests and collect samples.

4. What control measures are in place for Clubroot?

Control measures for Clubroot are specified in the Alberta Clubroot Management Plan. It is important to understand that these control measures represent an acceptable minimum standard that is to be applied in all municipalities across the province. Municipalities, however, can adopt more stringent standards within their own jurisdictions.

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1. What is the host range of Fusarium Head Blight?

Fusarium Head Blight has a wide host range that includes all small grain crops, corn, and many wild and tame grass species.

2. What is the life cycle of Fusarium Head Blight pathogen?

The main pathogen that causes Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) typically overwinters in crop and grass residues on or in the soil, as well as in seed. Seedlings can become infected at emergence. Wind-borne spores are formed in fruiting structures formed on old infested crop residues and are then spread by wind to infect florets when the grain is at the flowering stage. Warm, moist weather worsens the infection. A second rain-splashed spore stage can form on infected head tissue.

3. What are the symptoms of Fusarium Head Blight?

The common symptom is premature bleaching or blighting of heads. Partially blighted heads are most common. Florets may have a pinkish or orangish appearance near their base. The seeds in blighted heads do not fill properly and appear shriveled and bleached. See photos: FHB Symptoms

4. How does Fusarium Head Blight spread?

Short distance spread occurs via the dispersal of fungal spores that are blown by the wind from one cereal field to the next. Long-distance spread occurs through the transportation of infected crop residue or seeds.

5. What is the current Fusarium Head Blight situation in Alberta?

Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) is caused by several species of a fungal pathogen, Fusarium. The most important Fusarium species affecting Alberta is Fusarium graminearum. Results regarding the occurrence of F. graminearum, based on testing by a range of private and public organizations using different methodologies and involving a range of plant tissues (e.g. seed, heads, crowns, and nodes), have been consistent. F. graminearum was either not or infrequently isolated from seed and crop residues from central to northern Alberta. In contrast, F. graminearum was more frequently isolated from seed, cereal residues, corn residues, and head tissues from fields in southern Alberta, especially under irrigated production. Moreover, over the period from 2001 to 2008, this pathogen is being isolated with increasing frequency, especially in southern Alberta. Outside of southern Alberta other less damaging species of Fusarium are typically associated with FHB symptoms. A laboratory certificate showing that the seed lot in question was tested and found to be non-detectable for F. graminearum must accompany all cereal and corn intended for use as seed in Alberta. See Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development’s Fusarium graminearum Management Plan: Alberta Fusarium Graminearum Management Plan

6. What can be done to reduce the risk of Fusarium Head Blight on my farm?

Producers must avoid planting seed that is infected with F. graminearum. The seed of susceptible crop species must be tested by a seed testing laboratory and only seed with non-detectable levels of F. graminearum is to be used for seeding purposes.

Although infected seed can cause seedling blight, it typically does not directly give rise to head blight symptoms in one growing season. The fungus will move from the infected seed to the root, crown, and stem base tissues of the plant that develops from the infested seed, thus creating potential sources of infested residue that can impact subsequent crops. The buildup of the pathogen would typically be favoured by the production of successive host crops and favourable weather.

Crop Rotation

To help slow down the buildup of infested crop residues a crop rotation away from cereals to non-hosts, including canola, pulses, and forage legumes should be considered for at least 2 years. This will allow enough time for the infested residue to decompose before the next cereal crop is seeded.

Variety Selection

Using the least susceptible varieties will help to reduce the risk of fusarium head blight and perhaps the potential for buildup of F. graminearum. For more information on FHB reactions of registered cereal varieties see the Varieties of Cereal and Oilseed Crops for Alberta document.

Irrigation Management

Producers growing small grain cereals under irrigation may be able to reduce the risk of head and seed infection and mycotoxin contamination by careful water management and integrating this with crop rotation, choosing a resistant variety if available, and using fungicide if warranted. If possible, irrigation should be avoided during the flowering period to help prevent humid conditions that favour infection. In addition, it is recommended that producers consider increasing seeding rates, which helps to reduce tiller formation and shorten the flowering period for the entire crop, thus reducing the time that irrigation should be avoided. For further information on using irrigation management to minimize FHB, see the ARD Factsheet.

Fungicide Application

In-crop fungicide application may be considered, but may only provide suppression of the disease at best. Application before infection, as well as sprayer and nozzle settings, will be critical. Consult provincial chemical guides and extension publications for more information.

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1. Who can apply for a Community Grant?

• Non-profit organizations, societies or associations who operate within Kneehill County, and have had society status for a minimum of 2 (two) years, in good standing, can apply. 
• The project must also be completed within Kneehill County borders. 
• Organizations must be able to match the funding requested at a minimum of 50% of the total project cost

Community Grants Policy

2. Who is ineligible to apply for a Community Grant?

• Municipalities or individual persons
• Organizations that provide services or programs that are the responsibility of another level of government, including Health, Education, Libraries and Social Services
• Religious organizations; however, we will consider an organization with religious affiliations that are seeking funding for a non-denominational initiative that is open to the community-at-large
• Organizations with political affiliations
• Projects that have already been started or completed
• Programs, events, and activities that receive support from the County through other programs or policies with the exception of the Kneehill County Rural Community Halls listed in Policy #15-13
• Programs, events, and activities that have received support from the County through another application from another non-profit organization
• Organizations that received Kneehill Community Grant to Non-Profit Organizations funding in the prior year of more than $1,000 are not eligible this year
• The project cannot enhance or create a fully owned municipal asset. Applications involving land and/or facilities must include a Certificate of Title.
• Organizations must be able to match the funding requested at a minimum of 50% of the total project cost 

Community Grants Policy

3. How do I apply for a Community Grant?

Grant applications and criteria are available electronically on the Kneehill County website or can be picked up at the Kneehill County Administration building.  

No other form of application will be accepted. 

Community Grant Application

4. How much Community Grant funding can I apply for?

• The amount and availability of grants will be determined by Council at the annual budget deliberations.
• Grant funding is approved on a matching basis. This means organizations must contribute an amount equal to or exceeding the actual Community Grant. The matching requirement may be met in the form of any combination of money, volunteer labour, services, donated materials or equipment, all of which must be specifically related to the project.  
  • The value of volunteerism for Community Grant is based on:
    • $10.00/hour for unskilled labour
    • $25.00/hour for skilled labour
    • Donated materials and professional services at verified fair market value; and
    • Donated heavy equipment (incl. operator) $50.00/hour.
  • Time and labour provided towards the preparation of Community Grant funding applications, committee planning meetings, fundraising, and similar activities are not eligible for Community Grants matching purposes.
• Funding is limited to a minimum of $250 dollars
• Organizations can request to present to Council but are not mandatory
• Additional information or clarification may be requested by Council before approval of funds

Community Grants Policy

5. How long do we have to use our Community Grant funding?

• Organizations have one year to use the funds. 
• If the Organization is unable to conduct the project program, event or activity in the current year, a written letter of request for an extension must be submitted.

Community Grants Policy

6. What can I use the Community Grant funding for?

The entire amount of financial support received through the Community Grant program must be used exclusively for the project described on your Community Grant Application.  

Community Grants Policy

7. Who can I contact regarding Community Grants?

Questions about the Community Grant Program? Call or email Carolyn Van der Kuil at Kneehill County, 403-443-5541.

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1. How do I contact my Councillor?

Visit the Council Contacts page to find Contact information for each Division Councillor. View our Election District Map to find out which division you live in. 

Council Contacts

2. How do I find Department contacts?

There is a Contact Us link at the bottom of each page.
The main office phone number is 1-403-443-5541 or Toll free at 1-866-443-5541.
Email: office@kneehillcounty.com

Contact

3. How do I get on Council's Agenda?

See the Council page for the Procedural Bylaw.
All meetings of Council are open to the public, however, you have to be on the agenda in order to speak to a subject.

Council Meetings

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1. Can I go for a hike at Horseshoe Canyon?

October 22, 2021

No. Horseshoe Canyon and Orkney Viewpoint are closed for the season and will re-open for hiking in the spring of 2022. 

2. Can I come to the office for customer service?

September 16, 2021

Yes, the Kneehill County office is open to the public. Stop by during regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm) for in-person services.   

Face masks are required. Physical precautions (barriers) and COVID-19 protocols (sanitizing, etc.) will remain in place to ensure resident and staff safety. Please continue following all AHS recommendations for COVID-19, and do not visit the Kneehill County office if you are sick.

For your convenience, the following County services are available from the comfort of your home:

Bill Payments

• Pay your utility bills, tax bills, and other County invoices via online banking (set up through your financial institution).
• You can also pay by cheque through the mail, or by calling the office, 403-443-5541, to pay by credit card (except tax payments.)

Burn Permits Online

• Go online to apply for a burn permit in Kneehill County (required year-round.).

And more!

• Visit our E-Services page for more information.

If you need assistance or are unsure how to access our online services, please contact Kneehill County, 403-443-5541, or office@kneehillcounty.com.

3. How can the public attend Council meetings?

September 16, 2021.

Council meetings are open for public attendance. Residents can also watch Council meetings online on Kneehill County’s YouTube channel. A link to the live stream is made available on the homepage of the Kneehill County website the morning of the Council meeting. 

*Please note, face masks are required, and attendance may be limited to allow for physical distancing. 

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1. Who do I contact for Community Support in the Kneehill Area?

April 8, 2021

Kneehill Regional Family and Community Support Services are here to help and support residents during COVID-19. Call 403-443-3800 to connect over the phone, or to make an appointment. Calls will be answered between 9 am - 12 pm, and from 1 pm to 4 pm.

• Social/Emotional supports are available through your Family Resource Worker. Messages are confidential and regularly checked during business hours. Call 403-443-3800.
• Community Volunteer Income Tax Program- A modified version of this program is also available.
  Call 403-443-3800 for eligibility and to make an appointment.  

If you schedule an in-person appointment with KRFCSS, please follow all protocols set in place for COVID-19 to protect volunteers, staff, clients, and our communities.

Visit the Kneehill Regional FCSS website.

2. I need mental health support. Where do I go?

April 8, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic can have a significant impact on mental health.

Local Supports

Kneehill Regional FCSS

• Social/Emotional supports are available through your Family Resource Worker. Messages are confidential and regularly checked during business hours. Call 403-443-3800.

Non-Local

Online resources are available if you need advice on handling stressful situations or ways to talk to children.

• Help in Tough Times (AHS)
• Mental health and coping with COVID-19 (CDC)
• Talking with children about COVID-19 (CDC)
• COVID-19 information for young kids and students (PDF, 122 KB)

If you need to talk, call the 24-hour help lines:

• Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642
• Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Additional resources are available at alberta.ca/mentalhealth.

Wellness Together Canada: Mental Health and Substance Use Support

The Wellness Together Canada mental health and substance use support portal gives access to psychological and social supports for you or someone you know. The portal provides free online resources, tools, apps and connections to trained volunteers and qualified mental health professionals.

Visit https://ca.portal.gs/ 

Togetherall

If you’re struggling to cope, you don’t have to do it alone. Togetherall offers a safe, and anonymous community to connect from anywhere, at any time. Visit https://togetherall.com/en-ca/ for more information. 

3. How do I talk to my kids about COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

The Alberta Government has resources to help explain COVID-19 to children. Download Frequently Asked Questions on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) for Young Children and Students.

4. How can I help my community during COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

Neighbours helping Neighbours Program

Kneehill Regional FCSS is offering additional supports to assist area residents confined to their homes. They are looking for volunteers to assist with supplementing what regional businesses are already offering, whether it’s helping someone with their grocery shopping and dog walking or other errands – any little assistance you can offer will go a long way for someone in need.

Find out more: Community Helpers, Neighbours Helping Neighbours during COVID-19.  

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1. What financial supports are available for individuals?

April 8, 2021

Employees and self-employed individuals who have found themselves out of work due to COVID-19 and the newly announced Alberta Public Health Measures, or COVID-19 related illness, have four financial support streams available to them:

COVID- 19 Employment Insurance

Learn more and apply for EI Benefits here: http://ow.ly/fB6u50CHaXZ

Canadian Recovery Benefit (CRB)

The Canada Recovery Benefit gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are directly affected by COVID-19 and are not entitled to Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.

Learn more and apply for the CRB Program here: http://ow.ly/7ybN50CHaX4

Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)

The Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit is available for those unable to work for at least 50% of the week in order to care for a family member under 12 due to COVID-19.

Learn more and apply for the CRCB here: http://ow.ly/WiL350CHaVu

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)

The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit is available for workers who are unable to work for at least 50% of the week for reasons related to COVID-19.

Learn more and apply for the CRSB here: http://ow.ly/3Aqw50CHb0u

2. What is the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit, and how do I apply?

April 8, 2021

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)- Ended September 26,2020

Even though the CERB has ended, you can apply for a period retroactively. The CRA is continuing to accept and process retroactive applications for period 7 (August 30 to September 26, 2020) through the CRA’s My Account or automated toll-free phone line.

Transition from CERB to Employment Insurance (EI)

The Government of Canada announced changes to the Employment Insurance (EI) program and New Recovery Benefits that will better support Canadians.

If you were receiving CERB, you may be eligible for one of the new recovery benefits retroactive to September 27, 2020, and available until September 25, 2021.

Learn more about the transition from CERB to Recovery Benefits

Learn more about COVID-19 support for Individuals and Families.

3. What supports are the Governments of Alberta and Canada providing for businesses and non-profits?

April 8, 2021

Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS)

 Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations, or charities who have seen a drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of their commercial rent or property expenses, starting on September 27, 2020, until June 2021.

 This subsidy will provide payments directly to qualifying renters and property owners, without requiring the participation of landlords.

 To be eligible for this program, businesses must:

 Must have had a CRA business number on September 27, 2020, or had a payroll account on March 15, 2020, or another person or partnership made payroll remittances on your behalf or purchased the business assets of another person or partnership who meets condition 2 above, and have made an election under the special asset acquisition rules

• Are an eligible business, charity, or non-profit (eligible entity)
• Experienced a drop in revenue
• Have eligible expenses

 Learn more or apply for the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy here:  https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/subsidy/emergency-rent-subsidy/cers-how-apply.html

Government of Canada’s Regional Relief and Recovery Fund

Local businesses and non-profits continue to be seriously impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Community Futures Wild Rose will be offering additional $40,000 small business loans as part of the Government of Canada’s Regional Relief and Recovery Fund. The RRRF loan zero-interest until January  2023 and intended to help rural small and medium-sized businesses cover ongoing costs and help them resume normal business operations after COVID-19.

Learn more about the Government of Canada’s Regional Relief and Recovery Fund here:

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)

If you are a Canadian employer who has seen a drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of your employee wages, retroactive to March 15. This subsidy will enable you to re-hire workers, help prevent further job losses, and ease you back into normal operations.

To see if you are eligible for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, please visit: http://ow.ly/UP7d50CH9FL

To learn more about the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or make your application online, visit: http://ow.ly/kNB450CH9FM

Small and Medium Enterprise Relaunch Grant

The Small and Medium Enterprise Relaunch Grant offers financial assistance to Alberta organizations (businesses, cooperatives, and non-profits) that were ordered to close or curtail operations, and that experienced a revenue reduction of at least 30%, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program has been revised to include unregistered sole proprietors and new businesses that opened between March 1 – October 31, 2020. 

Learn More: https://www.alberta.ca/sme-relaunch-grant.aspx

Stabilize Program: 

One-time funding to help rodeos, sports, arts, and other venue-based organizations offset financial losses through a one-time grant of up to 25 percent of eligible expenses based on 2018 and 2019 financials. Apply by midnight on February 18. Learn More: https://www.alberta.ca/stabilize-program.aspx

Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP)

Provides financial support up to $1 million to businesses that have been hardest hit by the pandemic, including those in the tourism and hospitality industry and those relying on in-person service. Learn more about this program from your financial institute.

 

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1. What are the best websites to get the information I need?

April 8, 2021

Government of Alberta

COVID-19  Information for Albertan’s
Alberta Health Services’ latest health information and advice for Alberta.

The Public Health Agency of Canada

COVID-19 Outbreak Updates and more information. 

2. What is COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

An outbreak of respiratory illness, now known to be caused by a novel (new) coronavirus, was first identified in Wuhan, China on December 31, 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a public health emergency. The novel coronavirus disease has been given the name COVID-19.

COVID-19 is a serious health threat, and the situation is evolving daily. The risk varies between and within communities, but given the number of cases in Canada, the risk to Canadians is considered high.

3. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

You should get tested if you have any COVID-19 symptom.

If you have any of these CORE symptoms you are legally required to isolate for at least 10 days from the start of your symptoms or until they resolve, whichever is longer:

• Fever
• Cough (new cough or worsening chronic cough)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (new or worsening)
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

If you have any of these other symptoms, stay home and minimize your contact with others until your symptoms resolve:

• Chills
• Painful swallowing
• Stuffy nose
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell, fatigue or severe exhaustion
• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained loss of appetite)
• Loss of sense of smell or taste
• Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye

Monitor your health and call Health Link 811 if you have questions or concerns. Call 911 immediately if experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion or loss of consciousness.

4. I think I have COVID-19 symptoms. What should I do?

April 8, 2021

You should get tested if you have any COVID-19 symptoms.

Monitor your symptoms

• Adults over 18 should stay home and get tested if they have any COVID-19 symptom.
• Children under 18 should refer to the daily screening checklist for instructions.

Core symptoms

If you have any of these core symptoms, you need to isolate for at least 10 days from the start of your symptoms or until they are gone, whichever is longer, or until you test negative for COVID-19. Financial support may be available if you experience a loss of income.

Adults over 18

• cough
• fever
• shortness of breath
• runny nose
• sore throat

Children under 18

• cough
• fever
• shortness of breath
• loss of sense of taste or smell

Other symptoms

Adults over 18

Any symptom: Stay home and limit contact with others until symptoms are gone. Testing is recommended.

• Stuffy nose
• Painful swallowing
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell or fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained loss of appetite
• Loss of sense of smell or taste
• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye

Children under 18

1 symptom: Stay home for 24 hours, get tested if symptoms don’t improve.
2+ symptoms: Get tested and stay home until well or the test is negative.

• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Painful swallowing
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell or fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained loss of appetite
• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye

Monitor your health and call Health Link 811 or your health care provider if you have questions or concerns. Call 911 immediately if experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion, or loss of consciousness.

5. Who can be tested for COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

Priority testing is available to:

• any person exhibiting any symptom of COVID-19
• all close contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases
• all workers and/or residents at specific outbreak sites

Monitor your symptoms

• Adults over 18 should stay home and get tested if they have any COVID-19 symptom.
• Children under 18 should refer to the daily screening checklist for instructions.

Core symptoms

If you have any of these core symptoms, you need to isolate for at least 10 days from the start of your symptoms or until they are gone, whichever is longer, or until you test negative for COVID-19. Financial support may be available if you experience a loss of income.

Adults over 18

• cough
• fever
• shortness of breath
• runny nose
• sore throat

Children under 18

• cough
• fever
• shortness of breath
• loss of sense of taste or smell

How to Get Tested

Book a Test

If you have symptoms or known exposure to COVID-19, you must stay home and book your test online with AHS assessment tool or call Health Link 811.

Take the COVID-19 assessment / Book a test

Access Your Results Online

Albertans 14 years old or older can access test results online through MyHealth Records, a secure Alberta government service that helps keep track of your health information.

6. How do I isolate?

July 1, 2021

In Stage 3, isolating and quarantining help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the number of people you could infect if you're sick. Both require staying home and avoiding situations where the virus could spread.

Albertans are legally required to:

• Isolate for 10 days if you tested positive or have any core symptoms that are not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition.
• Quarantine for 14 days* if you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19, and you are not fully vaccinated. (*Duration of quarantine may be reduced based on vaccination status.)
• If you have symptoms, take the online assessment to arrange testing.

Learn more about isolation requirements: https://www.alberta.ca/isolation.aspx

7. How do I prevent the spread of COVID-19?

July 1, 2021

We all have a responsibility to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Alberta. Take steps to protect yourself and others.

Practice good hygiene

• Stay home if you are feeling sick
• Wash or sanitize your hands often
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Avoid touching your face

Gather Safely

• There are no longer restrictions on social gatherings. However, if you are gathering with people you don’t know or who are not vaccinated, you can practice these optional precautions to limit the risk of spreading COVID-19.
• Practice physical distancing of 2 metres.
• Wear a mask if it’s in an indoor space.
• Sanitize common touch surfaces

Monitor your symptoms

• COVID-19 symptoms are similar to influenza and other respiratory illnesses and can range from mild to severe. Even people with mild symptoms can spread COVID-19 to others.
• If you have any symptom, stay home and take the online assessment to arrange testing.
• Depending on your vaccination status, you may be legally required to isolate if you have symptoms or quarantine if you are a close contact of a confirmed case. Learn more about isolation and quarantine requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated Albertans.

Isolate or Quarantine if Required

Isolation and quarantine requirements are in place for individuals with COVID-19 symptoms or who have been exposed to a COVID-19 case. Modified requirements are in place for individuals who are partially or fully vaccinated.

Visit https://www.alberta.ca/prevent-the-spread.aspx for more information. 

8. What else can I do to prepare for COVID-19?

April 8, 2021

Create a Household Action Plan

Talk with the people who need to be included in your plan.

• Discuss with household members, other relatives, and friends what to do if a COVID-19 outbreak occurs in your community and what the needs of each person will be.
• Plan ways to care for those at greater risk of serious complications, such as ensuring you have sufficient medication, and determining what supplies are needed and if they can be delivered.
• Talk with your neighbours about emergency planning.
• Create a list of local organizations you can contact if you need access to information, health-care services, support or resources.
• Create an emergency contact list.

Prepare for Isolation

• Choose a room in your home you can use to separate sick household members from healthy ones.
• Choose a separate bathroom for sick individuals to use, if possible.
• Plan to clean these rooms as needed when someone is sick.
• Have 72 hours’ worth of food and supplies at home. We do not recommend stockpiling goods.

Financial support is available if you’re unable to work because you are sick, required to isolate, or are caring for someone in isolation.

Hotel rooms may be available if you can’t isolate safely in your own home.

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1. Province-Wide Health Measures

October 5, 2021

Alberta has declared a state of public health emergency as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise. New health measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 apply provincewide. Visit Alberta.ca for more information.

Read on: New vaccine requirements and COVID-19 measures in Alberta.

Learn more...

2. Provincial Information for Businesses and Non-Profits

Updated COVID Guidelines for Business & Events 

 Alberta has declared a state of public health emergency. COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise, largely in unvaccinated Albertans. New measures to protect the health care system, stop the spread, and increase vaccination rates come into effect starting September 16 - 20.

 Starting September 20, discretionary events and businesses must follow one of these 2 options:

1.  Implement the Restrictions Exemption Program requiring proof of vaccination or negative rapid test result to continue operating as usual, or
2. Follow capacity and operating restrictions as outlined on the page below: 

 Businesses that implement the Restrictions Exemption Program can operate as usual if they only serve people (ages 12 and over) who have:

• proof of vaccination
  • single dose accepted between September 20 and October 25 if received 2 weeks before time of service
  • double doses required after October 25
• documentation of a medical exemption
• proof of a privately-paid negative PCR or rapid test within 72 hours of service (tests from AHS or Alberta Precision Laboratories not allowed)

 Businesses do not need to apply for the program. Audits and enforcement will occur to ensure rules are followed.

• The Restriction Exemption Program would not apply to:
  • businesses or entities that need to be accessed for daily living
  • employees of businesses participating in the program
  • children under 12

 Learn more about the new public health actions and how they may affect your business here: https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-public-health-actions.aspx

 See what supports are available for your business here: https://www.alberta.ca/biz-connect.aspx?fbclid=IwAR2DaOUWYEz7busJUTnhwtFHJ51CeOhDAIq1-N7cwCaNuCgoPYohmqoTEUU

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1. What is the population of Kneehill County?

Federal Census 2016 result is 5,001 residents in Kneehill County.
The overall population including all municipalities within Kneehill County boundary is 11, 205 (Including Town of Three Hills, Town of Trochu, Villages of Linden, Carbon and Acme).

Visitors Page

2. Where do I find zoning information to set up a business?

Zoning information can be found in our Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Development Plan. Refer to the Planning pages for those documents.

Development Page

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1. How do I change my address?

Visit our Changing Your Address page for a fillable form. You can also email the main office at office@kneehillcounty.com or phone 403-443-5541 for more information.

Forms

2. Where do I find out more information about my assessment?

Visit the Assessment page for general information on assessments. You can contact Caroline Siverson at 403-443-5541 should you have questions about your assessment.

Taxation & Assessment Page

3. When are my taxes due?

Council passes the taxation bylaw annually in April/May. Combined Tax and Assessment Notices are mailed out in May and due on October 31.

Tax Notices

4. How can I make online payments?

You can pay your Kneehill County bills online through your Canadian Financial Institution's website. You must add Kneehill County as a payee, and choose either Taxes, Utilities, or General. These account numbers can be found on your invoices. Please visit our Making a Payment page for more information. 

Online Banking

5. What methods of payment do you accept?

Kneehill County accepts cash (during open business hours only), cheque, Interac debit, and online banking. We now accept credit card payments on everything except tax accounts. Visit our Making a Payment page for more information. 

Making a Payment

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1. Why does a fire truck show up when I call for EMS?

Because of our rural area, 911 dispatch will, in many cases depending on the situation, dispatch the area fire department to provide extra assistance. Our volunteer fire fighters are trained as First Responders.

Fire Department

2. Do I need a burn / fire permit?

Fire permits are mandatory all year round, including in the winter months. Fire Permits can now be accessed online. See the Burn Permits page for more information.

Burning Information

3. Is there a fee for a burn permit?

No!

Burn Permits

4. Who issues the burn permits?

Fire Guardians issue the permits. A Fire Guardian is any Fire Chief from within the County of the Emergency Management Coordinator.

Burn Permits

5. is there a penalty if I don't get a burn permit?

Yes.

1st Offense: $500

2nd Offense: $750

3rd Offense: $1000

Burn Permits

6. Do I need a permit for my burning barrel?

No, a permit is not required for:

a) an incinerator fire, either domestic or any commercial or industrial type incinerator that is required to be licensed under the Environment Protection and Enhancement Act

b) a fire that is set for the purpose of cooking or obtaining warmth

c) a smudge fire that is set for the purpose of protecting livestock from insects

d) fires set for the purpose of training firefighters

e) controlled burns conducted by the County

However, please be aware that burning barrels are not permitted in Hamlets.

7. Why do I need a burn permit? I have never needed one before.

In the interest of public safety and the preservation of valuable property and resources, the Council of Kneehill County adopted a Fire Protection and Emergency Services Bylaw on August 19th, 2003. Requirements for burn permits came into place at that time.

Burn Permits

8. How do I know if there is a fire ban in effect?

Kneehill County will publish any fire bans that come into effect on both the County website and Facebook page.

In addition, you may also visit the Alberta Fire Ban Website.

Burn Permits

9. What is prohibited to burn?

Under the Environment Protection and Enhancement Act, there is a list of debris that is prohibited to burn.

It is prohibited to burn any flammable waste that when burned may release dense smoke, offensive odors, or toxic substances, which includes:

• animal manure,
• pathological waste,
• non-wooden materials,
• waste material from building or construction sites, excluding wooden materials that do not contain preservatives,
• combustible materials in automobile bodies,
• tires,
• rubber or plastic, or anything with rubber or plastic attached to scrap steel,
• solid waste from sawmills with an annual production in excess of 6324 cubic meters of lumber,
• used oil,
• wood of wood products containing substances for the purpose of preserving wood

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1. When will my garbage be picked up? (Hamlet)

Waste collected in Wimborne, Huxley, Swalwell, and Torrington takes place Thursday mornings. Please visit our Hamlet Garbage page for more information. 

Hamlet Garbage

2. Where do I take my garbage (Acreage, Farm)?

Depending on where you live, there are transfer sites in many areas that Kneehill County residents have access to including Torrington, Three Hills, Trochu, Carbon, Linden, Acme. Visit our Transfer Sites page for more information. 

Transfer Sites

3. What recycling services are in Kneehill County?

Kneehill County is a partner in the Drumheller & District Solid Waste Association. Recycling is part of its mandate and we have various recycling options set up at the various transfer sites in Torrington, Three Hills, Trochu, Acme, Carbon, and Linden. Visit our Transfer Sites page for more information. 

Garbage and Recycling

4. What are the transfer site hours and location?

Kneehill County has many transfer sites (Torrington, Three Hills, Trochu, Linden, Carbon, and Acme). Not all sites take all products. The Transfer Sites page details what is accepted at each location, hours of operation as well as location.

Transfer Sites

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1. How do I obtain an Ownership Map?

Maps may be purchased from the Kneehill County office during regular business hours. Ownership map may also be viewed on the website under Maps. 

24 inch- $10.00, 32 inch- $15.00, 42 inch- $20.00, 60 inch $30.00, Map Book- $25.00 (+ GST)

Maps

2. What Council Division am I in?

A Council Division map can be found on the Map page. The map has the division breakdown according to Election Districts. 

Maps

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1. Can you tell me more about the gravel for sale? What can I use it for?

The gravel being sold through the Gravel Blitz program is from the Hand Hills area, where the aggregate resource lies within a clay-based soil, unlike some other areas which produce sand/silt-based gravel. 

The stockpiled gravel was to be crushed to an Alberta Transportation Highway specification which is common for most municipalities to use, but the larger amount of fine clay content found in the aggregate passed through the smaller sieves during the crushing process. 

Clay-based soils provide a binder for aggerate and help keep it in place on the roadway more than sand-based or manufactured fine-based gravel does, however, when graded-up the clay-based gravel tends to produce a slimy top when wet.

When not graded frequently, the clay-based gravel will form a very hard base which is ideal for residential and farm use, including farm/bin yards, driveways, base gravel under concrete, and areas that are heavy with gumbo to make a bridge between soils. 

2. How do I calculate gravel conversions? (ex. m3 to tonnes)

• m³ to yds³ =  x 1.308
• m³ to tonnes = x 1.81
• yds³ to tonnes = x 1.384
• yds³ to m³ = ÷ 1.308
• tonnes to m³ = ÷ 1.81
• tonnes to yds³ = ÷  1.384

To convert m³ to tonnes, multiply m³ by 1.81. (ex. 300 m³ x 1.81 = 543 tonnes)

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1. Why did the Health Canada guideline change?

Health Canada now recognizes the science says there is a public health benefit to reducing lead exposure to levels that are as low as possible. The guideline is intended to minimize public health risks from lead content in drinking water. It now has a lower maximum acceptable concentration for lead in drinking water. This places Canada with one of the lowest targets in the world for lead in drinking water.

2. What happens if I volunteer to have my water tested?

You will have your water tested for lead and receive the test results within 14 days of the County receiving the results from the laboratory. A test result will only represent a moment in time; however, it identifies any potential concerns with lead levels in your water. You can use this information to make informed health decisions. Your assistance will help Kneehill County discover any issues with lead in the water system.   

3. What happens if my test results exceed Health Canada’s guideline?

Kneehill County Utilities will work with you to complete additional sampling to confirm that the previous test was accurate. If the second test also exceeds the guidelines, the County will provide information on ways you can reduce your exposure.

4. How can I reduce my risk of lead exposure?

Kneehill County's water supply is safe and clean, and meets the new Health Canada guideline. However, the most common sources of lead in drinking water are “at the tap.” In other words, in the plumbing in your house and if you have lead service lines on your property.

Residents who think their homes may have lead fixtures can take measures to reduce their risk of lead exposure.

• Flush standing water in pipes each morning or after returning home at the end of the day—by flushing the toilet, washing your hands, or letting the water run cold. The flushing clears out any water that’s been sitting in the lead pipes. By doing this, you ensure the water is straight from the main service line.
• Use cold water for both drinking and cooking—hot water dissolves more lead from plumbing and boiling water doesn’t remove lead.
• Not all home water-treatment filters remove lead. Before purchasing a filter, check the model to ensure it meets lead reduction certification. It should be NSF-53 certified for lead reduction.

Residents can contact Health Link 24/7 for health information on lead exposure toll-free at 811. The following websites also have good information on how to reduce potential lead exposure.  

Water Talk: Reducing your exposure to lead from drinking water

Common questions about lead and drinking water

Drinking water: what about lead?

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1. How do I reserve a campsite?

We take reservations for all of our campgrounds (Keiver’s Lake, Bracconier Dam,  Swalwell Dam, and Torrington) through the Let’s Camp reservation system.

 For more information on camping, visit our Parks & Campgrounds page.

Camping

2. How many campgrounds are in Kneehill County?

Kneehill County has its own campgrounds at Keiver's Lake, Bracconier Dam, Swalwell Dam, and Torrington Campground. Other campgrounds in our area include Three Hills, Trochu, Acme, Carbon, Linden. Visit the Parks & Campgrounds page for more information regarding our region.

Visitors

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1. When do I need a Development Permit?

Development permits are generally required for any construction (including new construction, additions, and structural renovations), change of use of land or a building, or a change in the intensity of land or building use. Examples of developments requiring permit approval include expansion of an existing approved business, a mobile home, a structural alteration to an existing building, the relocation of an existing building, a fence over 3 feet in height (when located in a front yard, and 6 feet when located in side yards).

Visit our Development Permit page for more information. 

Planning Department

2. How long is my development permit good for?

An approved development permit is good for 1 year, unless otherwise specified on the development approval. If construction has not been commenced within that time, the permit is considered null and void and a new application for development will be required.

Planning Department

3. How much will a development permit cost?

Processing fees are set by the Master Rates Bylaw and vary by type of development. Visit our Development page for more information.

Master Rates Bylaw

4. Can I move in a mobile home?

Mobile homes 20-35 years of age are considered discretionary use in the Land Use Bylaw and will be taken to the Municipal Planning Commission for approval.

Mobile homes over 35 years of age are prohibited.

Mobile homes must be compatible with other buildings in the vicinity and must be CSA approved. They must be placed on a permanent foundation and completely screened from view by skirting within 60 days of placement of the unit.

A Development Permit and Building Permit are required for a mobile home as well as electrical, plumbing, gas, and private sewage permits.

Visit our Development page for more information. 

Mobile Home

5. I am building a deck, do I need a permit?

Yes, if the deck is 2 feet or more off the ground. Ensure you install 36” handrails and 42” handrails if the deck is 6 feet or more off the ground. The verticals must have a maximum spacing of 4”.

A Development Permit and Building Permit are required. Visit our Development page for more information. 

Development

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1. Is my road banned or closed?

View our Road Closures page for up to date closures in our area. Weight restrictions and bans can be found on our Road Bans page, as well as Roadata information. 

Road Closures, Bans

2. How do I sign up for Dust Control?

Applications for Dust Control are available every spring.  

There is a deadline for dust control to ensure we can prepare and complete the dust control project in time. Visit the Dust Control page for more information.

Dust Control

3. When will my gravel road be graded/snow plowed?

The graders are on a rotation. Kneehill County has over 1900 kilometers of gravel roads and 10 grader divisions. We attempt to have all grading completed in each division within 1.5-2 months. We attempt to have all snowplowing of gravel roads completed as soon as possible, depending on weather.

Snow Plowing

4. Who do I call to report a dead animal on the road?

Dead animals on County roads will be dealt with by the Transportation department (call County office at 403-443-5541). Provincial and Secondary highways are the responsibility of Emcon Canada Inc. (1-800-390-2242).

Roads

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1. How do I receive services to my house?

If you have just moved into Kneehill County, you can access sign up forms via the Water Services/Utilities page of this website.
Depending on where you live, will depend on what services are available. Utilities

2. How do I read my water meter?

Kneehill County's water reading system is automatic and we receive meter readings without entering your home to attain an actual reading. To read your water meter, visit the Water/Utilities page for more information. Water Servicing

3. Who do I contact for other utilities (gas, electricity, internet)?

There are many private companies in our area. Visit the Residents page for more information.

Other Utilities in Area