In the heart of Saskatchewan, WUQWATR’s ALUS program is reshaping the way we interact with our environment. Through innovative, producer-led initiatives, we’re seeing real change in our landscapes and communities. Let’s explore how ALUS is making a difference, one project at a time.
Get more insights into WUQWATR’s ALUS Program, including details on annual payment rates, by downloading our factsheet (PDF).
Tom Harrison, Last Mountain Lake
Adjacent to Last Mountain Lake, Tom Harrison has successfully constructed an exclusion fence, funded by ALUS, to protect the shoreline from cattle. This not only preserves the riparian area but also offers a serene spot for canoe and kayak enthusiasts.
Larry Grant, Davin
In Davin, Saskatchewan, Larry Grant, with support from ALUS, has planted over 4,000 trees since 2013, creating a flourishing 1.6-kilometre shelter belt. This green marvel is set to absorb an impressive 100 tons of CO2 annually, showcasing the power of proactive environmental stewardship.
A future where all farmers and ranchers produce ecosystem services from nature-based solutions alongside food and fibre to help solve the crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.
Engage farmers and ranchers in creating nature-based solutions on their land to build climate resilience and enhance biodiversity for the benefit of communities and future generations.
WUQWATR has delivered more than 800 ALUS-Funded projects covering almost 4,000 acres since our partnership began in 2016.
Originally called the Alternative Land Use Service, ALUS Canada is a charitable organization funding projects across the country.
The ALUS portfolio is as varied as the landscapes WUQWATR serves – from enhancing wetlands to planting pollinator-friending strips of land; from building windbreaks to installing erosion control measures – every project is tailored to the unique needs of the lands and its stewards.
This is not just about creating projects but about sustaining them as well.
For example, there were 18 acres of new ALUS-funded projects added during 2024 but a massive 932 acres of projects within WUQWATR were renewed.
WUQWATR is having another big year this year with contracts covering another 998.7 acres being renewed!
Target acres for new projects have not yet been set for 2025.
A Participant Advisory Committee, known as the PAC, adjudicates ALUS applications for WUQWATR.
Our project portfolio is as varied as the landscapes we serve. From enhancing wetlands to planting pollinator-friendly strips, from building windbreaks to installing erosion control measures – every project is tailored to the unique needs of the land and its stewards. We’re not just about creating projects; we’re about sustaining them. That’s why we offer per-acre annual payments to our producers, recognizing their ongoing commitment to these vital environmental services.
Interested in being a part of the ALUS program?
Whether you’re a producer looking to start a project or just seeking more information, reach out to Nathan Avery (nathan@wuqwatr.ca or 306-529-5125). Our team is here to provide support, technical resources, and guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Wascana & Upper Qu’Appelle Watersheds Association Taking Responsibility (WUQWATR) is a non-profit organization with a focus on promoting watershed stewardship through communications and programming initiatives.
The water that flows through the four sub watersheds that comprise WUQWATR are in Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We pay our respects to the water, and the First Nations and Métis Ancestors, and reaffirm our relationship with one another.
