LAC LA BICHE – From May to September, pest and weed inspections will be conducted on farming operations in Lac La Biche County, and other properties within the municipality.
Brennan Scott, the agricultural fieldman for Lac La Biche County, said the inspections are done to ensure compliance with the Weed Control Act and the Agricultural Pests Act. The inspections help prevent the spread of harmful weeds and pests that can threaten crops, livestock, and the environment.
Inspections are conducted annually as part of the County’s regular monitoring and enforcement duties as outlined in the Weed Control Act.
“Inspectors will visit properties between May 1 and Sept. 1 to monitor for noxious and prohibited noxious weeds, as well as regulated pests,” Scott told Lakeland This Week.
“The process typically involves visual assessments and documentation. In some cases, samples may be taken for analysis.”
Inspectors are mainly Lac La Biche County employees who are appointed by council each year to enforce the acts. As agricultural fieldman, Scott oversees the program, working with the inspectors as they go about their duties.
“Our inspectors are trained to work efficiently and respectfully on agricultural land,” he stated.
While inspectors may conduct unannounced visits to ensure broad coverage, Scott pointed out that producers who have specific concerns or want to be present at the time of inspection need to contact the Lac La Biche County agriculture department. In many cases, he added, staff can coordinate a time that works best for the producer.
Scott explained that under provincial legislation, municipalities are required to carry out these inspections, and landowners, including farmers, are required to allow them. These inspections are not punitive but are intended to help maintain the health of the broader agricultural community.
“Co-operation is appreciated and helps ensure that we all benefit from a more productive and pest-free environment,” he said.
