Volunteers unite in support of public lands during Ed Gregor Stewardship Day in Crowsnest Pass

This year, June 7 marked a day of community spirit, environmental care and hands-on action as nearly 100 volunteers gathered for Ed Gregor Stewardship Day, an event dedicated to improving and preserving the public lands of Crowsnest Pass.

The stewardship event was first held roughly 30 years ago, launched in honour of the late Ed Gregor, a former Alberta forestry employee and resident of Crowsnest Pass known for his commitment to responsible land use and recreation.

Under clear blue skies and with near-perfect weather conditions, volunteers from across southern Alberta rolled up their sleeves for a full day of trail work, invasive-species removal, riparian restoration, and more.

“This is an opportunity for anybody who uses public lands to come together with fellow recreation users and improve our wild spaces,” says Jenice Smith, Alberta Hiking Association’s Crowsnest project co-ordinator. 

“It’s one of the few chances for all types of user groups to gather around the same table with one shared purpose.”

After meeting at the Blairmore ranger station for a free breakfast, courtesy of the Coleman Lions Club, volunteers set out to tackle a number of projects across public lands.

The diverse array of projects included garbage pickup, removal of invasive weeds, repairs to hitching posts and fences, and a variety of trail-focused efforts.

Trail work included bridge redecking and willow staking to protect sensitive riparian zones, improvement and material staging work on a hiking trail near Allison Falls, and key upgrades to improve safety and sustainability on a mountain bike trail.

“These are legacy projects that you can see the results of by the end of the day — trucks filled with weeds and garbage, repaired fences and bridges, new trails. It’s something everyone involved can be proud of,” Jenice says.

A large portion of the event’s success should be credited to the wide network of community and conservation groups that came together to improve public lands.

Participating organizations included:

Hillcrest Fish and Game, Great Divide Trail Association, Alberta Hiking Association, Crowsnest Forest Stewardship Society, Crowsnest Conservation Society, Oldman Watershed Council, Alberta Invasive Species Council, FireSmart Alberta, Crowsnest Snow Riders, Crowsnest Quad Squad, United Riders of Crowsnest, Freshwater Canada, Crowsnest Nordic and the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass.

Many of these organizations not only offered manpower but also helped co-ordinate project planning, approvals and safety. 

“We work together as a group to identify stewardship opportunities and ensure everything is done with the proper approvals in place,” Jenice says.

A full day of work was capped with a communal supper provided by the Blairmore Lions Club, prize draws, and recognition of the youngest and oldest participants — a nod to the intergenerational spirit of the event.

Given the number of residents and organizations that saw to the success of this year’s Ed Gregor Stewardship Day, Jenice couldn’t help but emphasize their shared impact in making the event a major win for the area.

“It’s inspiring to see people who’ve never picked up a trail-building tool before working side by side, from young kids, to seniors, to families, all helping to protect the places they love,” she says. 

“Ed Gregor Stewardship Day is just one day, but the impact lasts much longer.”

Jenice hopes the momentum generated by this year’s stewardship day will carry over into next year, with more outdoor enthusiasts and user groups willing to join for future editions.

Those looking to continue the momentum in the meantime are encouraged to join the Alberta Hiking Association for one of its trail-building volunteer opportunities throughout the summer.

“This is how we give back to the land,” Jenice says. “It’s how we ensure that trails, forests, and waterways are still there for our kids and grandkids.”