Alberta is recognizing the vital role of agricultural societies across the province as Agricultural Societies Day is being observed on Sunday, Sep. 21.
With 292 agricultural societies, the most in Canada, including in Lloydminster, Alberta’s ag societies are at the heart of rural life, operating over 1,000 facilities and hosting more than 40,000 events annually.
From rodeos and bench shows to educational programs and conferences, these non-profit organizations help communities thrive.
Many of Alberta’s ag societies have deep roots:
- 191 are over 50 years old
- 27 have been active for more than a century
- The oldest date back to 1879, before Alberta became a province
The Alberta government supports these groups through the Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program, which has provided $7.5 million in grants for 106 projects over the past three years. The funding went to upgrade commercial kitchens, roofing, heating systems, and more.
Also, the Agricultural Societies Grant Program offers $11.5 million annually in operational funding.
“On Sunday, let’s appreciate ag societies and the volunteers who dedicate time in their communities, making them excellent places to live, work and raise a family,” said RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation. “On behalf of all Albertans, I extend a sincere thank you to all of our ag societies and their thousands of volunteers for improving our agriculture sector and helping rural communities flourish.”
Quick Facts:
- Alberta has 292 agricultural societies supported by over 80,000 volunteers
- Includes seven regional societies in Camrose, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, Lloydminster, Medicine Hat, Olds, and Red Deer
- One major society operates in Calgary
- Alberta is the first Canadian province to declare a special day for agricultural societies
