(Cochrane, AB) – Emerging from a Council notice of motion, the Town of Cochrane is forming a Natural Environment Protection Task Force. The task force will act as an advisory body to Council and Administration, identifying and prioritizing natural areas that should be preserved or restored to protect long-term ecological health, build community resilience and protect the visual beauty of the community.
The task force will be comprised of two members of Council, four public at large members and two members of Administration (non-voting). Community members are invited to put their name forward to be considered for one of the three public at large roles by December 15, 2024.
“We know that experiencing Cochrane’s natural areas are a vital component of what makes Cochrane such a desirable community,” says Lisa Almond, Executive Director of Community Safety and Wellbeing, Town of Cochrane. “The Natural Environment Protection Task Force will play a key role in helping to ensure that these vital landscapes are safeguarded for generations to come."
Over the two-year term, task force members will provide recommendations on developing environmental education in schools and community groups, facilitate data collection through an environmental assessment study, provide recommendations to Council on policy and bylaws to protect or improve the health of local ecosystems and identify funding opportunities and strategic partnerships for conservation projects.
“Volunteers on the Natural Environment Protection Task Force will work closely with Council members to address critical environmental issues facing Cochrane,” says Michelle Delorme, Director of Parks and Active Living, Town of Cochrane. “Together, they will provide thoughtful recommendations on what actions the Town, the community and other partners can take to care for our natural areas. This collaboration ensures that local voices are at the table as we protect Cochrane’s natural heritage and contribute to national goals like Canada’s 30x30 initiative.”
Ideal candidates will bring a balanced perspective to critically assess both environmental protection needs and recreational interests. Applications to serve on the Natural Environment Protection Task Force are due by Sunday, December 15, 2024. Any Town of Cochrane resident, 18 years of age or older, may apply. Qualified applicants will be appointed by Council in January 2025.
For more information, visit cochrane.ca/committees or contact legislative@cochrane.ca.