Yellowhead County has acquired around 1,850 acres of land on the west side of the county as a part of its long-term strategy for sustainable regional development.
Now part of the county, the parcel was previously crown land owned by the provincial government. It is located on the west side of the county, adjacent to Highway 16 and the eastern edge of the Jasper National Park boundary.
The county says the purchase aligns with its 2022-2025 Strategic Plan and will enable it to create recreational amenities and opportunities for residents, expand tourism attractions in the region and, as a result, foster economic development and growth.
Specific goals are yet to be determined, but the intent of the land purchase is to support economic diversification and recreational development while minimizing environmental impacts.
The purchase, announced July 15, was reportedly five years in the making. Over that time, the county worked with and thanks the Government of Alberta and its Public Lands Division, and West Yellowhead MLA Martin Long for their support.
The county encourages residents and any other interested parties to monitor its webpage for project milestones and advancements in the coming years.
