Clearwater County residents have until Friday, July 12 to nominate neighbours and friends whose property is especially beautiful for the County’s Rural Beautification Awards.
The awards, which have been handed out for nearly 40 years, are a partnership between Clearwater County and the Rocky Agricultural Society.
Bettina van Nieuwkerk, landcare supervisor, agricultural and community services with Clearwater County says the awards are all about being neighborly.
“That’s what we’re looking for, is for friends and neighbors to nominate one another for the extra effort they’ve put in to beautify the community,” says van Nieuwkerk.
van Nieuwkerk says that while the County has received a handful of nominations, it’s hoping for more, as it’s been a relatively undersubscribed program in recent years.
The winners receive a plaque from the County they can display in their yard or garden, says van Nieuwkerk, as well as recognition at the annual Chamber banquet.
The annual banquet also recognizes the Farm Family of the Year, as well as handing out an award for Environmental Stewardship & Sustainable Grazing.
Over the years, residents have put many hours into their properties for the Rural Beautification Awards, say organizers.
Rock gardens, lawn ornaments, flowers, and antiques like old farm equipment are among the ways people have managed to spruce up their properties in the past.
The 2024 awards feature three categories:
- Farm
- Acreage
- Hamlet or subdivision
Paper nomination forms are available at the Rocky Mountain House Agricultural Society (5116 50 Ave) and at greenhouses within the county.
van Nieuwkerk says people can also nominate neighbors by calling the County office at 403-845-4444.
The online nomination form can be found here.
The 2023 winners were:
- Active Farm: Brian & Stacey Scott, Rosemarie & Ed Evans,
- Acreage Over 15 Years: Charles and Mary Pearn,
- Retirement Acreage: Doug and Vera Edwards
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