Mac Olsen
Express Staff
@SmokyRiverExprs
Director of Operations
During the M.D. council meeting on March 14, Kevin Cymbaluk gave his director of operations report.
Cymbaluk noted that Smoky River Fire and Rescue has moved into the new regional fire hall, located just to the west of the Rocky Mountain Equipment dealership.
Some work has to be finished, including sign installation and landscaping. A backup generator has been delivered and will be installed, too.
Smoky River Fire and Rescue will hold an open house at the fire hall on June 23.
Cymbaluk also noted that the public works department is completing several winter brushing projects. Finally, the 2017 M.D. maps are available at the administration office in Falher for $15 plus GST.
Fire Chief report
Fire Chief Marcel Maure gave his report to council and said there were three calls for service in February:
. One medical call.
. One vehicle fire.
. One motor vehicle collision.
The fire chief also noted that the fire permit season started March 1. Landowners are reminded to contact Smoky River Fire and Rescue prior to burning, or to get a permit if required.
Ag fieldman report
Normand Boulet, the ag fieldman for the M.D. of Smoky River, noted that the M.D.’s new cattle squeeze unit is now available for use. The cost is $20 per day for rental.
The old unit will be sold at auction in April.
Council has given first and second readings to a bylaw for designating alfalfa, when genetically modified, as a prohibited noxious weed within the M.D. of Smoky River.
It now goes to Agriculture Minister Oneil Carlier for approval. It will then be returned to the M.D. council for the third and final reading.
Boulet also highlighted several meetings that he attended in the last couple of months.
. FarmTech in Edmonton, January 31 – February 2.
. Canolab in Vermillion, February 22.
. Fusarium in Stony Plain on February 23.
Boulet will write articles about these meetings for Spotlight in the future.