Province announces details of development in Alberta’s South Saskatchewan region

CALGARY – The Alberta government released its long-awaited South Saskatchewan regional plan on Wednesday.

It’s a new land use plan that covers the region which stretches from Crossfield to the US border, about 84,000 square kilometres.

The plan focuses on conservation and environmental protection, and creates new recreation areas.

“The new land-use plan will manage the growth pressures in this region so our children and grandchildren will benefit from a pristine environment and a growing economy,” says Premier Dave Hancock.

The plan, which includes management frameworks for air and water quality protection, received feedback from more than 7500 Albertans before it was finalized.

“This plan was created by Albertans and strikes the right balance of recreation and economic opportunity while protecting the environment and achieving conservation goals,” says Robin Campbell, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.

Developed with a 50-year outlook in mind, the plan will go into effect on September 1st.

The Estimated cost for the plan in its first year $4.5 million, and $1.2 million in capital costs.