Leduc Environmental Advisory Board provides annual update

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Members of the Leduc Environmental Advisory Board (LEAB) were at a council meeting on Feb. 5 to provide an organizational update and a look into their upcoming plans.

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LEAB’s goal is to advise council on environmental matters and propose programs or practices that protect and enhance it. The Board also spreads information to and for the residents of Leduc to create a better appreciation and understanding of environmental practices.

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In 2023, LEAB engaged the community through various events, including pitch-in week, Arbour Day, the Leduc Business Expo, the Pollinator Garden Challenge, VolunteerFest and the spring and Christmas bird counts.

“We continue to listen to concerns from residents and groups and stay informed through workshops, webinars and conferences,” said LEAB Chair Wendy Yule.

In an effort to reduce greenhouse gases, LEAB has campaigned for the e-scooter program and the development of the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP). Now in year three of its four-year pilot, there are 40 ongoing CEIP projects.

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Additionally, under LEAB, the Light Efficient Communities Advisory Committee continues to promote dark skate awareness and evaluate the resources needed for a program in Leduc.

This year also marks the permanency of the city’s Backyard Hens and Bees Pilot Program, which offers selected residents the chance to extend their backyard gardening with hens or bees for the production of eggs or honey.

Yule also offered the LEAB’s endorsement of the Yellowfish Road Program, which paints yellowfish on sewer drains to raise awareness and reduce stormwater pollution. The program will be piloted in Southfork later this year.

“The Leduc Environmental Advisory Board promises to continue supporting the city’s current environmental programs, advocate for the initiatives presented [tonight], identify emerging environmental issues and provide advisory support to council,” Yule concluded.

To view meeting notes, videos and the upcoming council schedule, visit leduc.ca/council-meetings.

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