Drayton Valley Pulling Together

Communities in Bloom 2014

The Town of Drayton Valley is a vibrant and diverse com- munity sitting high above the North Saskatchewan River, where the open plains of the prairie rise toward the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the boreal forest of the Canadian West. Drayton Valley embraces the best of the modern world while still having a taste of Alberta’s Frontier Spirit. This is a place where neighbors become friends and where friends unite to build a community in which we can all share. We are proud of our past and ex- cited about the potential of our future.

WWW.DRAYTONVALLEY.CA 5120—52 Street, Box 6837 T7A 1A1 Tel 780.514.2200 Fax

WWW.BRAZEAU.AB.CA Pa ge 2 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Welcome to Drayton Valley

I would like to congratulate the Communities in Bloom Committee and the Town of Drayton Valley for placing 1st in the 2012 Communities in Bloom Provincial competition. Such an achievement would not have been possible without the hard work of the dedicated volunteers whose tremendous efforts have now made Drayton Valley eligible to compete at the national level.

I would like to thank all of the businesses and residents who contributed to the revitalization and beautification of the community in preparation of the competition, not only did you aid in Drayton Valley’s success, you’ve made this community an even better place to work, live and play.

I would also like to welcome all of the visitors to our community. I trust you will enjoy your stay and hope you take the opportunity to experience the many amenities Drayton Valley has to offer!

Glenn McLean, Mayor, Town of Drayton Valley

Pa ge 3 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Welcome from Brazeau County!

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the Communities in Bloom Committee.

Flowers! I love flowers. Growing up, my grandmother had a green thumb and somehow she managed to have something blooming in her house every month of the year. Years later, I quickly realized going to her house was certainly more appealing because of her plants in bloom, not that we needed any excuse to go to Grandma’s.

It is indeed a privilege to live in our great community. The summer months bring the added touch of many plants covered in blossoms. Many places throughout Drayton Valley are alive with colour; from the many flowerbeds located in town centre to the artistic display at the entrance to town, commemorating our waterways, I have the ability to look in any direction and see a wonderfully groomed flowerbed awash with blossoms.

Another favorite is the many hanging baskets, alive with diverse colors, which seem to weather the summer storms and still keep blooming. It is always a privilege to drive through the rural areas in the county and see all the beautifully groomed yards.

It takes many hours of dedicated volunteer time to make our community the wonderful sight you see here today. My heartfelt thanks to all of you who make our area such a welcoming place to arrive into all year long; particularly in the summer.

It is our pleasure to be a part of this program once again in 2014 and hope you enjoy your stay in this great area we call home!

Yours Truly,

Pat Vos Reeve

Pa ge 4 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Pa ge 5 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Contents

Mayor’s Message Page 2

Reeve’s Message Page 3

Introduction to Drayton Valley and Brazeau County Page 6

Municipal Information Page Town of Drayton Valley Page 7

Municipal Information Page Brazeau County Page 8

Tour Itinerary Page 12

Tour Map Page 14

Drayton Valley Communities in Bloom Committee Members 2014 Page 15

Drayton Valley Communities in Bloom Activity Summary 2011 Page 16

Tidiness Page 18

Environmental Action Page 22

Landscape Page 42

Heritage Conservation Page 60

Urban Forestry Page 79

Floral Displays Page 87

Appendix A Page 92

Pa ge 6 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Welcome to Drayton Valley in Brazeau County

Drayton Valley and Brazeau County are among Alberta’s hidden gems. Located a relaxing 90- minute drive southwest of Edmonton, they sit at the point where the agricultural lands of the prairies give way to the boreal forest of the foothills. Together they are ideal as a centre for numerous outdoor activities.

As the commercial hub for the surrounding area, Drayton Valley boasts many of the amenities you’d expect to find in a larger centre. That includes a wide variety of shops, ranging from locally-owned to big box retailers, along with a number of other businesses, both large and small. Drayton Valley is also home to a world-class conference centre, a swimming pool, a multi screen movie theatre, a splash park, numerous high quality restaurants and the Omniplex, a sports and recreation centre boasting three ice surfaces, squash courts, and a fully-equipped fitness centre. The Omniplex also hosts a weekly Farmers’ Market in the summer months.

While farming is an important part of the local economy, Brazeau County is probably best known as a centre for the oil and gas industry. This is the heart of the Pembina oilfield, which was the largest in the world by surface area at the time of its discovery in 1953. Oil and gas, along with forestry and agriculture, continue to be the key components of the local economy.

Recently the area has become a leader in the rapidly-emerging bio economy. Work on Drayton Valley’s Bio- Mile, which is designed to serve as a home for several bio-industries, began in 2009. The Bio-Mile, which is an integrated eco-industrial park, is a completely new concept in Canada. It is still a work in progress but is attracting attention from across North America and Europe.

Drayton Valley/Brazeau is about much more than just business. It is a clean, attractive and dynamic community offering a quality of life which is second to none. Last year the two municipal governments signed an agreement which will see them work together in a number of areas for their mutual benefit, while allowing each municipality to maintain its own distinct character. Under this exciting new partnership we expect to see the Town and the County continue to prosper as they move forward toward a bright future together. Pa ge 7 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 2014 Municipal Information Form

General Information

Municipality: Town of Drayton Valley Population: 7049 Municipal Budget: 22.4 Million Parks budget as a % of municipal budget: 3.6% Total Area: 3157 Hectares Parks and Green Spaces area as a % of the total area: 12.21% before the 2011 annexation of significant areas of farm land.

CIB’s Municipal Action Plan

Drayton Valley’s approach to Communities in Bloom is based on involving the entire community, young and old, in making our home town the best it can be. Our annual campaign is spearheaded by a volunteer committee which draws on the strengths of a number of organizations and businesses along with those of individual residents. We’ve found that this is a great way to get the whole community engaged and involved in moving forwards together.

Our Committee believes it’s important that Communities in Bloom is embraced as a year-round program. While there’s an obvious focus on the one day in the year when the judges come to town, we have taken steps to ensure that our hard work will last long past evaluation day and will bring a tangible improvement to the quality of life of those of us who are lucky enough to call Drayton Valley home.

Sustainability is always at the centre of our efforts. Drayton Valley received national recognition in this area in 2012 when our Community Sustainability Plan, of which Communities in Bloom forms an important part, was named as the best in the country by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

Each year we select special areas of focus to fit with our twin goals of sustainability and community engagement. For 2014 we are working to identify and celebrate the number of historic buildings in our community. All too often these are overlooked in younger communities such as ours. We believe it’s vital to preserve these sites as a reflection of who we are and how we came to be here.

The second special project this year is the upgrading to the area surrounding Drayton Valley’s Cenotaph. The legion is one of the longest established service clubs in our community. The area around the war memorial has been replanted with poppies donated to our community by the Town of Calmar’s Communities in Bloom Committee.

We are proud of our community and delighted to work side by side with our neighbours to make this the best place to live in Alberta.

Pa ge 8 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 2012 Municipal Information Form

The motto of the County is "Welcome Home", and one look at its beautiful surroundings and vibrant economy will make anyone want to call it home. The quality of life is truly enriched in Brazeau County through the large number of volunteer groups and associations. Many non-profit organizations partici- pate in the growth and enhancement of our community and community activities. The area is also home to a large number of cultural, historical, and environmental associations and services, in addition to many service clubs, recreation and social clubs and support services.

Brazeau County includes within it's boundaries the vibrant municipalities of the Town of Drayton Valley and the Village of Breton, along with the hamlets of Buck Creek, Cynthia, Lindale, Lodgepole, Rocky Rap- ids, and Violet Grove. In addition, the County is responsible for governance of the Birchwood Village Green, a private recreational village near Lindale.

For further information on Brazeau County we invite you to visit us at www.brazeau.ab.ca Pa ge 9 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Community Sustainability Plan

In December of 2009 Drayton Valley Town Council approved the Community Sustainability Plan, and the plans objectives are ongoing. There has been community participation both in planning and implementation stages. Public sustainability awards are presented to individuals or groups in our community that have exemplified an area of sustainability. This Community Sustainability Plan was awarded the FCM Award of Excellence in Ottawa in February of 2012.

Sustainability Open House

The Sustainability Open House was an opportunity to provide feedback, comments and suggestions on the Community Sustainability Plan, current and completed initiatives, as well as present possibilities for sustainability moving forward. The event was well attended by approximately 65 people and the feedback they provided will be evaluated and used accordingly. The evening was fun and festive with a BBQ that showcased garlic sausage from a local rancher, Will-Dor Ranch. The Master Composters were also on hand showcasing a working worm composting bin and answering people’s questions. The Chamber of Commerce donated its BBQs and volunteer time to cook food for the crowd. Pa ge 10 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Community Sustainability Plan Wins National Award

Our Community has been recognized on the national level for our community Sustainability Plan. This achievement is truly an indication of how an entire community can contribute to the health and vitality of its surroundings.

The award was presented at the FCM Sustainable Communities Conference hosted in Ottawa at the beginning of February. Mayor Hamdon accepted the award on behalf of the Drayton Valley community.

The Sustainability Plan is truly a living document. It sets out forms of progress that meet the needs of our present population while ensuring the ability of future populations to meet their needs. And great progress has been made on the strategies within the plan, including:

 86% of the 1-year goals have been completed and/or ongoing  64% of the 5-year goals have been completed and/or ongoing  36% of the 10-year goals have been initiated

And our Community Sustainability Plan is just over 2 years old.

The Plan addresses all aspects of our community including social development, arts and culture, governance, economic development, and the natural and man-made environment. Our activities have been diverse, with the following examples reflecting only a part of the work that is happening to move our Sustainability Plan forward:

 Water Conservation Program (P.O.U.R. Program)  Master Composter Program  Youth Advisory Council and the Promoting Youth Potential Group  Community Learning Garden and Natural Landscaped Areas  Energy Efficient Retrofits in the Omniplex  Idle Reduction Policy  Bio-Mile Development  Multi-Cultural Awareness

So, congratulations Drayton Valley. Sustainability is very evident in our community and it will continue to influence everything we do. Pa ge 11 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

BENEFITS OF LOCATING YOUR BUSINESS WITHIN BRAZEAU COUNTY LOCATION  Located just 60 minutes west of the Edmonton International Airport and the Canada – Mexico Trade corridor of Highway 2  Located just 30 minutes south of Yellowhead Highway 16  Located just 90 minutes from Edmonton  Located ½ way between Alberta’s largest growing city of Grande Prairie and the distribution centre of Alberta – Calga- ry  Located just 3 hours from the Rocky Mountain Resort areas  Within a one hour drive is access to a market exceeding one million people.

CONSTRUCTION COSTS  Competitive taxation rates for Commercial, Residential and Industrial land  Competitive building construction costs  Competitive leasing rates on Commercial and Industrial buildings

LABOUR  Youthful, vibrant workforce, average age is just 37  Labour force participation rate is 75.5%, higher than both the provincial and national average

INDUSTRY  Supported primarily by the Oil & Gas, Forestry and Agricul- ture industries, the Retail and Food and Accommodation sectors are growing at a rapid pace.  An emerging outdoor recreation and agri-tourism industry is on the rise.

LIFESTYLE  A prosperous community with an average annual income of $80,127.00 per household  A safe and active community boasting superior recreational facilities and numerous clubs and organizations  An outdoorsman’s paradise situated between the North Sas- katchewan and Pembina Rivers, and just 25 minutes to the Brazeau Dam Pa ge 12 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Tour Itinerary Pa ge 13 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Tour Itinerary Pa ge 14 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Tour Map

Pa ge 15 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Communities in Bloom Committee

Co-Chair, Town of Drayton Valley Councillor Nicole Nadeau Co-Chair, Member-at-large Heather Rennison Committee Horticulturalist Todd McClean Committee, Brazeau County Wanda Compton Committee, Community Health Promotions Facilitator AHS Trisha Enyedy Committee, Multicultural Association Cecelia Bentancor Committee, Eldorado School Eco-Garden Representative Wendy Jones Committee, Grow Eat Together Susan Schvindt Committee, Eagle Point Blue Rapids Provincial Park Rep. Robyn Anderson

Committee, Brazeau Tourism Brenda Jabs Committee, Town of Drayton Valley, Assistant Cora Appleby Committee, Youth Respresentative Rhiannon Gressler Committee, Wildrose School Trustee, Town of Drayton Valley Nancy McClure Committee, Town of Drayton Valley Annette Driessen

Pa ge 16 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 I’m Bloomin’….. Are you?

Communities in Bloom Committee Work and Calendar of Events for 2013/2014

 Supporting the “I’m Bloomin’…Are You?” campaign and promotional packages available to public with signs of support as well as tips, seed packets & program information for residences & businesses.

 CIB Committee has annual grant to Drayton Valley Early Childhood Development Centre for it’s “ Good Bugs” programming which teaches the children about the the important roles butterflies, ladybugs and even praying mantises play in our world.

 Communities in Bloom Committee focused on creating partnerships with other individuals and organizations to further enhance community initiatives this year.

Working in conjunction with G.E.T to create partnerships with Community Sustainability Plan in creating a Community Garden Plot at the Drayton Valley Civic Centre.

 Our Committee’s biggest focus has been the creation, development and implementation for our self guided Historical walking tour through our downtown core. WE were so proud to officially launch them at an event with conjunction with our partners at Home Hardware and guest Mark Cullen. Plaques went up this Spring!

 Working alongside our Legion and Cadets in creating a memorial garden to pay tribute and further honor local veterans. Co-Chair Heather Rennison contacted the Holland Embassy and described our project and the Embassy generously donated tulips to be planted at the site. Project Phase one of three Phases has been completed this year. The cadets manage the site and volunteered to clear and plant the bulbs as well as poppies donated by a local nursery around the Cenotaph. Phase Two already has donators coming forward for aggregate planters for next year. This has been a biggest focus of the year. We have already received many donations from local volunteer groups and businesses.

 We have worked, as well, with our new Provincial park, EPBR , in sponsoring The Grade 4 Evergreen Elementary Interpretive Signage trail. So Happy to see it’s unveiling in June.

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 Communities in Bloom Committee was engaged by the Town to help redesign winter decorations. We had a lot of fun and can’t wait to see the community transformed this winter with the addition of LED snowflakes and banners from one end of our Town to the other.

 Several news articles in Drayton Valley Western Review and Interviews on local Big West Country radio station and XM105 radio from Whitecourt.

 Facebook group created to further promote Drayton Valley Communities in Bloom. Topics include: how to get involved, links to magazines, photos highlighting the community, tips by local experts and has become a networking tool for events. To date 130+ members and growing. Co-Chair Heather Rennison has also created Drayton Valley’s Bloomin’ Good Recipes Facebook group that shares local recipes. Group has grown to almost 150 in less than a year.

 Canada Day…3rd annual Heritage component, Committee members of the multi-cultural group promoted multiculturalism by displaying information booths and providing stage performances in Rotary Park.

 Through the years we have seen a huge increase in residential buy in and community pride. Local donors and sponsors have also increased for our flower beds and hanging baskets throughout the community each year. Pa ge 18 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Tidiness Municipal and Public Properties

Operation Clean Sweep In conjunction with Earth Day, this is an annual clean up of Drayton Valley. Volunteers spend the afternoon walking around and supporting the efforts to keep our town beautiful. This involves toddlers from the ECDC, high school students, Town Councillors, and seniors. Community Pride is about Action! Adopt-a-Block As the title of this program states, a business or organization “adopts” a certain part of town and they are responsible for keeping that area clean from May through to September. In the fall last year, town council acknowledged these groups with Sustainability awards. We have five businesses and one community group participating in the program that started within the last year. FCSS works in partnership with these groups, keeping stats and photos, and accommodating the groups’ needs. For example, one group is rotating through all the school grounds this summer with a mission to keep them litter free, while another business is cleaning up different park areas rather than just where its business is located. This concept allows ownership, responsibility, pride and recognition. Litter Bug (Mascot) In the spring of 2009, the Drayton Valley Litter Bug was launched. The Litter Bug makes public appearances at fund raisers, community events like Canada Day, and has appeared at all the public elementary schools with an interactive presentation about being proud of Drayton Valley and keeping our community clean. He’s very popular with people of all ages, everywhere he goes. Graffiti Removal Kits Graffiti Kits are available free of charge from FCSS. They contain a pail, brush, ZEP-OFF paint remover, and rags for cleaning. The Creating a Clean Community campaign reminds people that it’s important to remove graffiti quickly, to not only stop it from attracting more graffiti, but to also send a message saying that defacing property is unacceptable. Pa ge 19 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

 The Town of Drayton Valley has a full time Bylaw Enforcement officer who works within the current bylaws of the Town to keep properties as neat and tidy as possible. The bylaws apply to public as well as private properties. If a property does not meet a bylaw expectation a notice can be sent to the owners to have the situation remedied within a designated time frame. If the situation is not remedied there are fines that can be levied as well as the possibility that the work required will be completed by the Town at the property owner’s expense.  The Town has an extensive trail system utilized by a wide variety of users. Some of the users are dog walkers, thus the trails have bag dispensers placed along the trails for pet owners to use to pick up their animal feces.  Spring and Fall Cleanup is something put on by the Town to help residents get rid of larger garbage items, or clean up debris. These events are used to encourage owners to keep properties clean.  Each residence has been allotted one large garbage bin that is picked up on a weekly basis. Every other week is recycle week and blue bags are picked up alongside the garbage bins. The Town also has a large recycle area where blue bags and cardboard can be dropped off by individuals. The residents of the Town also have the ability to take unused paint, chemicals, grass clippings, electronics and tires for no fee to the local land fill to be disposed of properly.  There is always an opportunity for residents to become involved in the community by sponsoring a park bench to commemorate a loved one or a special volunteer.

Bylaw 2012/16/D

This bylaw is the current signage bylaw for the Town. It holds all signage to a uniform standard. This helps to keep unsightly or nuisance signs off buildings and any Town property. The bylaw allows garage/yard sale signs to be placed at a central location, not all through the Town. Pa ge 20 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Service Clubs, Schools, Churches, Not-for-Profit Groups

 The Royal Purple has sponsored the Rotary Park. On their own initiative the ladies of the Royal Purple decided to commit to keeping the park clean.

 Many local youth organizations, including area 4-H clubs, spend the first Saturday in May taking part in the Annual Highway Clean Up. These youth spend the day picking up garbage left by passing motorists in the ditches of our highways and roads.

 Youth from numerous local churches all get together and help to clean up parks and walkways in Drayton Valley.

 The Lions Club of Drayton Valley cleans and maintains the grounds at Lions West Valley Park each year as well as hosting numerous events throughout the summer including the midway which has been running for over 25 years Pa ge 21 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Very clean waterway in the spring in Ivan To Park

Cleanliness of urban furniture, on the walking path at 42nd and 43rd Ave Pa ge 22 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Environmental Action Municipal , Residential and Community

Landscape Management Plan

Vision Drayton Valley is a clean and attractive place to live, to do business in, and to visit. We believe in, and practice, sustainable landscape management and the positive interactions between people and both natural and manmade environments.

Idle Reduction Policy

The Town of Drayton Valley is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by adopting an idle reduction policy aimed at all staff members. Unnecessary idling is restricted in all fleet vehicles and staff parking lots. Pa ge 23 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Family Day Drayton Valley Style

For several years Drayton Valley’s Waste Management Facility has played host to our annual Family Day festivities. It may not be an obvious choice, but it’s proven to be the perfect venue for a day of fun for the entire community.

The Waste Management Facility is close to town but has enough space to host a large outdoor event. A section of reclaimed land has been designed to serve as a toboggan hill. This same area also forms a natural amphitheater which can be used for outdoor events in the warmer months. Along with tobogganing our Family Day celebration includes wagon rides, hot air balloons and a whole host of fun activities suitable for a fresh, crisp winter day.

As an added benefit Family Day also allows us to introduce younger members of our community to the waste management facility so they can learn about our blue bag program and the importance of recycling. Pa ge 24 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

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Waste Management

The Blue Bag Recycling Program continues to be a success in the community with over 60% of the residents participating in curbside pickup. In early 2011, areas that were more hesitant to use the program were targeted with an education and awareness campaign. As a result of this campaign we saw participation rise to 45% in these areas from 25% in three months. In September, we will be initiating the development of a Re-Use It Centre for the community.The Aspen Waste Management Facility now allows residents to take grass, tires, T.Vs and computers and residential paint to the landfill free of charge as long as it isn’t a mixed load with other household or commercial waste, maintaining its recognition as a facility of excellence.

Installation of Water Sense Certified Toilets in the Civic Centre

All toilets in the Civic Centre were replaced with 3 litres/flush Water Sense certified models. These replaced 13.25 litres/flush models and it has been estimated that the Civic Centre will reduce its water consumption byover 150,000 liters each year.

Johnson Controls Energy Audits

The Town has contracted Johnson Controls to conduct energy audits on all municipal buildings. From this report, an energy and water conservation strategy will be outlined.

Solar PV System at the Omniplex

We are currently conducting the feasibility of a solar PV system being installed at the Omniplex.

Water Treatment Facility

A new, state of the art, water treatment facility has been designed to meet LEED GOLD certification.

Social Media

The creation of the Sustainability Drayton Valley Facebook Page has allowed us to connect with the community to provide information about programs, incentives, and interesting events in the community and abroad.

Renewable Energy at Municipal Buildings

The Town of Drayton Valley purchased 1,483,679 kWh of renewable energy generated from facilities in Calgary through their energy provider, Nexen. Pa ge 29 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Green Steps Program at the Omniplex

The Town was awarded a Municipal Sponsorship Grant of $55,000 to complete retrofits at the Omniplex. By choosing eco-retrofits the operating costs of the Omniplex have been reduced by approximately $12,500 annually which can then be reinvested into additional energy and water saving initiatives to further reduce operating costs. An educational campaign has also been installed in the facility and it showcases the benefits of installing thesame technologies in a home or business.

Residential Renewal (Densification) Study and Bylaw

The Residential Renewal Study and Bylaw refers to one of the oldest residential areas in Drayton Valley. We studied the area’s capacity to include more residential units and the standards that would be required for those types of developments. As a result, we were able to determine that higher density could be accommodated and was largely acceptable to area residents. The Densification Study (formally the “Residential Renewal Bylaw”) was approved at the same time as the rezoning of the lots to R2, to allow development of duplexes where duplexes were once limited. Though duplexes are now allowed, they must meet all standards (ie. parking and setbacks) in order for redevelopment to be approved. Pa ge 30 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

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Sustainability in Action Award, 2,500 - 10,000 Population

Drayton Valley implemented its Community Sustainability Plan (CSP) and has realized the following outcomes:  The Town reviews the plan and progress on its 85 goals annually. To date the Town has achieved or is close to reaching 89% of its on year goals, 72% of its five year goals and 57% of its ten year goals.

 Long term (25 years) CSP targets include a 50% reduction in GHG emissions from cars, zero emissions from public transit, and a 75% waste diversion rate from landfill.

 One of the Town’s flagship sustainability initiatives is the Bio-mile, and integrated bio-industrial park creating value from waste with the end goal of a zero waste future. The Bio-mile includes projects turning wood and agricultural waste into fibremats for the automobile industry, and turning wood waste into cellulose ethanol. As part of the Bio-mile the Town is also planning to convert waste that remains after recycling into energy.

 The Town has partnered with schools to develop three community gardens in a two year time span.

 The Town’s Early Childhood Development Centre has initiated partnerships to teach children about the environment through programs such as composting, eco-gardening and participating in the Town’s Clean Community Campaign. Pa ge 32 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Partnerships: Town of Drayton Valley - Public Works Wild Rose School Division Brighter Futures - Cooking with Friends Growing Food Security in Alberta Network Pembina Nurseries Communities in Bloom Pa ge 33 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Food Security is more than having enough food to meet every person’s nutritional needs; It also means having a variety of fresh food to fuel a healthy lifestyle

We are: A group of volunteers working towards enabling food availability for ALL residents in the town of Drayton Valley, County of Brazeau and surrounding areas.

Goals:  Affordable and reliable local access to a nutritionally adequate food supply  Develop sound food policies based on the principles of food sovereignty as a framework for a just and sustainable food system in our area  Establish partnerships with existing programs  Establish programs aimed at relief, capacity building and system redesign  Initiate food prep and gardening mentor network  Expand the development and use of community gardens

Programs:  Drayton Valley Learning Community Garden: central location for gardeners of all experience levels to teach and learn gardening skills (see picture of the front of brochure)  Drayton Valley Community Garden:  Gardeners have their own individual plot to maintain and harvest their own produce (picture below)

Next Steps:  Re-establish Food Basket program: providing affordable food security to community members throughout the area. Opportunity to purchase a food basket for approximately 25% off retail grocery store prices.  Expand current Community Garden or look at other areas where there is a need. Pa ge 34 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

What are the benefits of a Community Garden?  Access to fresh, great tasting vegetables  A way to save money from food bills without sacrificing taste or nutrition  Environmentally friendly  Locally produced food supply  A place to learn from others  A place to develop friendships and supports  A place for children to grow and learn  Provides physical activity and stress reduction

Drayton Valley Learning Community Garden  is located in front of the civic centre  Central location for gardeners of all experience levels to teach and learn gardening skills  Fresh produce ready for harvesting throughout the summer and available to community members

Drayton Valley Community Garden  is located beside the Frank Maddock High School parking lot  Gardeners have their own individual plot to maintain and harvest their own produce  Tools, water and watering can are located in garden shed at the garden Pa ge 35 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

What is a Community Garden?  A community garden is made up of people of any age, experience or walk of life who come together to grow a garden.  Community gardens can be large, small on the ground, on rooftops, in raised beds, in containers or a mixture of all of these.  Gardens can be grown to provide food security for individuals or larger communities, to provide food for schools, food banks or other charities,  Every community garden is unique and develops based on what is decided by those who garden there. Pa ge 36 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Eldorado Elementary School/Drayton Christian School Eco Garden

How can we make a difference in our children’s education, our environment and our community as a whole? The idea of creating a garden area that would serve not only as an outdoor classroom, and as a community garden while reconnecting with agriculture and nature seemed a natural fit. With a wonderful collaboration between students, school staff, parents, municipal government, our corporate community, and many other community partners the Eco Garden was born. To watch the evolution of a bare field to a garden sanctuary for children and seniors was a labour of love for the students and adult participants alike. Care was taken to provide planters that would be at a height that would allow easy access for wheelchairs and scooters with the addition of a wide topper that allows space to sit for those with limitations to standing. Pathways and gates are wide for wheelchair access. Environmental sustainability is promoted through the addition of composting and rain barrels. Since 2010, the harvest from the garden has been used in the school’s breakfast program as well as the lunch program. The benches are a sanctuary to sit and enjoy a good book and younger grades of children have “adopted a tree” so that they may watch its progress through their elementary school years as the tree and the child grow together. To watch the excitement of a child when they see how a potato actually grows or the joy of a senior who gets to once again weed a garden are special moments. This garden started as an opportunity for the school and its students but has grown into a wonderful source of great pride for all that participated and those that come to enjoy. People, plants and pride…. growing together? You bet!!!

* Included in Profile Book is moving video of project

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100K Kitchen Party Project

The 100K Kitchen Party Project was implemented by Brazeau County in 2009. Funded through a Provincial grant from the Rural Community Adaptation Fund, the program was to span 3 years with the ultimate goal of creating an awareness of the importance of eating local food. Purchasing local food from your neighbor meets the triple bottom line of community development; economic benefits, environmental benefits and social benefits for the community. It also meets the concerns people have around food safety and health issues regarding preservatives, chemicals and hormones found in corporately grown and processed foods.

The project had 4 objectives to meet before its sunset in December of 2011:

1) Create awareness of all the local producers of food within a 100Km radius of Drayton Valley to the residents within that area. 2) Action: the action was to create an Eat Local Directory which provided a listing of all the market gardens, u- picks and farm gate sellers in the region. The directory was distributed via mail to every mail box within the 100Km radius – 72,000 annually for each of the 3 years.  Attend local farmers’ markets within the 100Km radius to raise awareness of the program, distribute the Eat Local Directories and to sell the jams, preserves, pickles and relishes that were made using local produce by local people. 2) Educate people on how to process their own food.  Action: Courses are held to educate people on the lost art of canning by utilizing foods that have been grown locally. These courses have been very popular with individuals and groups. 3) Creation of a Small Food Processing Cooperative that will continue to process locally grown food and to sell it locally.

Action: By aiding a group of people in forming a Small Food Processing Cooperative, we will ensure that there is a market for locally grown food, and a product which supports locally grown and processed food that is free of chemicals.

4) The final objective was to ensure that all components of the project would be sustainable after the project sunsets.

Where are we at now? The courses on processing of food will continue after the project ends through the Easyford Community Hall, which will also aid the Cooperative members in their financial viability. The Small Food Processing Cooperative has been working hard this year on its business plan and its bylaws for incorporating under the Cooperatives business model and they hope to be up and running by January 1, 2012. The Eat Local Directory is the only objective that may not continue due to the costs associated with its production.

The 100K Kitchen Party Project has received incredible support from within and outside the region. It has received press coverage from the Edmonton Journal and will be featured in the Westworld magazine in the fall. The project was acknowledged nationally with a Marketing Canada Award in 2009 from the Economic Developers Association of Canada, and then again in 2010 with an award from the Economic Developers Association of Alberta. The project is a model for community sustainability that can be incorporated in any community. Pa ge 39 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Bottle Depot The Drayton Valley Bottle Depot has several blue recycle bins for bottles distributed throughout the town. The funds raised from the bottles donated will go to the non-profit organization which is labeled on the front of the bin. The Depot then picks up the bottles once a week for the different organizations.

The Depot also has an account system set up where you can donate a certain amount of your bottles to the non-profit organization of your choice, and the Depot sends them the money.

FCSS FCSS brings in a shredding truck for non-profits and low income families and seniors. Everybody has personal documents that need to be shredded; once a year FCSS brings a shredding truck to the Omniplex to give nonprofit, low income families and seniors a chance to dispose of these documents safely. FCSS covers the cost to residents while businesses pay a nominal fee.

Se-You Conference February 27th was a day for seniors and Youth to connect during a one of a kind event planned by passionate seniors and youth from our community. Over 180 participants came and connected to help break down stereotypes and increase communication between the two generations. The event featured fun and interactive sessions, a presentation from bestselling author Susan Bosak and a performance from Sail with Kings. Participants enjoyed learning how to make snow taffy, learning to knit, making collages, learning how to paint, relaxing with yoga or visiting over a game of crokinole. Pa ge 40 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Business & Institutions

Extra Foods Initiative to Reduce Plastic Shopping Bags Extra Foods grocery store implemented a five cent charge on all plastic bags in order to reduce waste.

Cell Phone Recycling Local business Dunn Right Communications offers a cell phone recycling drop off available to all residents.

Weyerhaeuser Weyerhaeuser engineered wetlands for the yard Lignin runoff; man -made pond with bulrushes planted and large storage volume (note nesting site now for geese and ducks).

Tim Horton’s Drive Thru Murals created in panels by local artists and not for profit groups. Increasing community pride and celebrated art in our community. A talented local artist, Sue Fuson, created our addition to the project at no charge because she loves Communities in Bloom.

Apex Common Ponds and flow reduction development by Ferry Group behind APEX/Monarch yard (beside he Aspen Waste Management Access road). Planted trees on the pond berms at APEX.

Pa ge 41 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Pa ge 42 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Landscape

Drayton Valley is proud of its efforts in utilizing the existing topography to enhance many of its landscaped areas. Two areas where the Town has taken advantage of storm runoff to create a scenic lake setting are Northview Pond and Ivan To Pond. These areas have incorporated the natural tree-line to act as borders along the lakes and walking paths. Bring the family down to Lions West Valley Park picnic area. The music from the nearby creek completes your mini “staycation”.

Take a stroll and enjoy the view from one of the many gazebos scattered throughout Drayton Valley. Be it a day or night the fountains create a lovely ambience. The kaleidoscope of color in the beautiful flowerbeds dotting the landscape tickle your senses. An experience that truly nurtures the soul.

Today’s landscape designs offer an exciting opportunity for businesses and homeowners to use innovative and sustainable materials in their projects. This is evident throughout our growing commercial and residential areas. These creative designs allow for a wide range of textures to be used such as mulch, gravel, recycled tires, rocks etc.

The layers of design then would include perennials, shrubbery, and small trees. It’s exciting to see these principles brought to Drayton Valley. Each year we see an engaged community going the extra mile to beautify and maintain their property. Pa ge 43 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Significant enhancements have been made to both the north and south entrances of Drayton Valley. The south entrance is testimony to an industry that has sustained us for generations.

Attractive light standards not only enhance the walkways but also provide a safe environment. During the long winter months when our ponds are used as skating rinks they become our “winter sunlight”.

The Public Works Department does a phenomenal job of maintaining the grounds throughout the community. Our experienced staff meet the challenge head on despite Alberta’s unpredictable weather.

Some of Drayton Valley’s landscaped areas are often used not only for recreation but to commemorate, remember and celebrate. Some examples include the “Pulling Together” Statue at the Town Civic Centre, the Legion Cenotaph and Rotary Park for our Canada Day Celebration.

Art has become a stimulus for children that visit Rotary Park, Park Valley Pool and Early Childhood Development Centre Eco Park. The amazing murals by local artist Trevor Furoy are not only captivating but provide the magicto transport these young minds on imaginary journeys.

The tremendous support for the Communities in Bloom campaign can be seen throughout the community. Well manicured lawns, trimmed shrubberies, creative flower displays and participation signs are abundant in Drayton Valley . The Town of Drayton Valley’s Public Works Department maintains over 160 hectares of green spaces.

Over the last several years Drayton Valley has seen tremendous development in commercial properties. With this comes new and improved methods of landscaping. There are countless businesses within Drayton Valley and area that have practiced new types of groundcover and ways to landscape their properties.

Some great examples of turf and groundcover are Stetson Motors, the Servus Credit Union, Powell Energy, Dunn Right Communications and Apex Common. The commercial businesses are really starting to come on side with Communities in Bloom and creating beautiful and creative landscapes on their new builds. Pa ge 44 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Landscape Management Plan

The LMP has been approved by Council in spring of this year and there is a list of actions that have been taken or are pending as follows:

Priority Public Works Items

 3 ton trucks must stay off of grassed areas to avoid rutting, unless it is absolutely necessary to accomplish the job  Eliminate watering the town plants if there is sufficient rain, or during a moderate or higher rain event i.e. more than 12 mm in 24 hours  Raise all of the municipal lawn mowers up 1 to 2 inches to increase grass height and reduce dandelion competition  Over seed all of the parks and municipal green spaces with playground mix grass seed  Apply the appropriate weighting of sulphur to those same areas to decrease pH which will inhibit dandelions and increase grass robustness with a goal of 6 to 6.5 pH  Acquire a common style of attractive municipal garbage cans, with appropriate anchors to replace the painted 45 gallon drums presently in use  The hypoxylon canker infestation in the Hospital Green Space needs to be cut and disposed of in the Aspen Waste Management Site  There are 2 overmature poplars to the north of the pool parking lot that need removal  The green lawn beside the West Valley Creek at the north-east entrance to the Lions West Valley Park needs to be re-contoured to direct runoff into the existing stonework and creek. The rutted clay track on 57 street behind the 56 street duplex row needs to be disked and seeded with playground mix  There are many dangerous trees that need immediate arborist attention in various parks and forested areas, these will be flagged out for the arborist  The southern-most spruce tree at the east curb of the Black Gold Inn needs to be removed as it restricts a safe line of sight onto 50th Ave south  The temporary cement pylons beside West Valley Creek just north of the east entrance to the Omniplex should be removed  The red steel poles around the lawn at the new St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School should be removed and the lawn repaired  Remove the old broken fence and barbed wire along 50th south and along the street leading west to Ivan To Park  Remove the spruce trees from the centre boulevard on 50th north and put them into a grove on the very east end of Ivan To Park  Remove the towering poplar from under the power lines beside the ATT Tower (near the hospital) and replace them with lilac

Many of these recommendations are advancing to the work schedule for the Public Works Department. Pa ge 45 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Many of the green spaces around town are being assessed to deal more effectively with run off water; they include but are not limited to:

 The south playing field at Evergreen School  The soccer fields east of the old HW Pickup School  The main soccer field in Lions West Valley Park  The central portion of Northview Park  The historical site lawn need drainage to the ditch beside the Weyerhaeuser site  Garbage needs to be removed along the West Valley Creek within the treed areas.

Runoff is slowed by the promotion and protection of bulrushes within the creek beds and drainages Pa ge 46 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Canada Day Celebration

Most communities host Canada Day, but few with the population of Drayton Valley can boast that they attract approximately 3000 people to their event. Drayton Valley has been able to do so for the past several years. Coordinated through the Town’s Community Services Department, Canada Day involves over 10 non-profit organizations and offers over 30 activities including stage performances, car show, Art in the Park, Splash Park, Penny Carnival, balloon artists, face painters, fireworks, petting zoo, inflatables, parade, pancake breakfast, and the list goes on. Once again, sponsorships pour in from local businesses, covering the majority of the costs to host this community celebration.

2013 2nd Annual Drayton Valley Triathlon

Momentum is picking up in the community in the form of a triathlon. Drayton Valley dwellers are seen swimming in our pool, biking on the roadways and running on our local paths within town. 120 youth and 180 adults participated last season, doubling the attendance from 2012. Drayton Valley is becoming more active!

We attribute the growth of local participants to a desire to achieve a goal, become more active and the chance to participate in an event in Drayton Valley. The Kids of Steel awareness is growing in the schools, with triathlon clubs gaining interest among the children attending. We are excited that this event has become a staple in our community. We have secured a main sponsor, Drayton Valley Toyota, which is proud to support us in our efforts to bring a quality sports event to Drayton Valley. We truly have support from everyone involved.

Zombie Run

In the effort to engage youth in becoming more active, a more inventive approach was used. The Town’s Recreation Activity Coordinator partnered with the River Valley Players acting group and created an event that was well received by zombie lovers. The First Annual Zombie Run gave participants the chance to run their way through zombie themes along the Rotary Pembina Nordic Community Trails (South) on the east end of Drayton Valley. It was promoted via posters in all schools and a small booth was set up in the Junior High School selling registrations at lunch time. The event brought 250 participants to the trails, making it an overwhelmingly huge success. Some of the proceeds were donated to the Jumpstart program which enables youth from our community the chance to participate in organized sport. Pa ge 47 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Volunteer Appreciation

Drayton Valley is a vibrant, active, and interesting place to call home. For this we owe our volunteers a huge debt of gratitude. No Scouts or Guides. No soccer, ball or hockey for young or old. No performing arts or hobby clubs. The diversity of our lives would be greatly lessened if it were not for the extraordinary gifts of time, knowledge and skill donated by our citizens. Part of our role is to make sure that our volunteers know how valuable they are. Each year during National Volunteer Appreciation Week in April we host a Volunteer Appreciation Night as a special thank-you to our volunteers. This event also allows us to recognize the clubs, organizations and causes that our volunteers are putting their time and efforts into. We also know that everyone volunteers for a different reason, and so like to be recognized in different ways. We are always looking to improve how we honour the people and organizations that form such a valuable part of our community. Whether it’s a fancy dinner, a friendly note, or an annual report on the impact of their work, we want to make sure that Drayton Valley’s volunteers know their worth.

Block Party

Block Parties are a fun and easy way to get to know our neighbors. Drayton Valley & District FCSS promotes Block Parties in town or in rural areas, and offers $150 towards supplies. They help create a sense of community, which can result in lower crime rates when neighbors know and care about each other.

Positive Ticketing Program

The Positive Ticketing Program through the R.C.M.P. is a great way for officers to interact with children and youth in a positive way. Through the giving of “pos-i-tics,” youth are rewarded with a ticket good for a free swim, Thunder game, Total Works pass, shinny pass or Cardium Theatre movie pass, when caught doing something positive and productive by officers. The program encourages law- biding behaviour in youth: it steers them towards activities that promote healthy and positive social interactions; and most importantly, it helps them form trusting relationships with adults who care. Pa ge 48 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

This Year We placed first in a friendly challenge among 22 other communities in Alberta who participated in the province wide Family Day Unplugged initiative. Community members were encouraged to disconnect from electronics for the day and instead focus their time on connecting with their family, friends and neighbours. Many chose to participate in the community family day events such as skating, skiing or tobogganing. Others reported that they made crafts, baked, cooked meals together, went for walks, played board games and just spent time visiting. Cumulatively, Alberta logged 133, 053, 00 hours. Drayton Valley and Brazeau County took top place logging over 38,800 hours.

For this initiative we had a local competition between schools. Here are the results: WINNING SCHOOL: Aurora Elementary with 12,418 hours. They won 2 bouncy house rentals for a whole day. The winning class at Aurora was Mrs.Rosentreader’s. The students will receive a pizza party! RUNNER UP SCHOOL: Eldorado Elementary logging 9,300 hours. They won 200 tickets to a Drayton Valley Thunder game. Winning class at Eldorado- Mr.Kinzels class. The students will receive a free pizza party. Thank you to everyone who participated to help make this event a success. Pa ge 49 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

The Drayton Valley Skate Park Committee was formed in 2009 to address the deficiencies of the existing park and since then, this youth driven committee has worked very hard to make its dream of a modern BMX /Skatepark a reality in Drayton Valley.

Not long ago, skateparks were grey expanses of asphalt and concrete with limited appeal either to the eye or to a youthful rider who wanted to be challenged and stimulated. Today skateparks are exciting public spaces that are inviting, challenging, diverse and even inspiring. The modern skatepark offers facilities that are totally integrated into the surrounding landscape and community.

At their core, skateparks are the new meeting place. They are the point of congregation for young people and their parents.

The park features approximately 9,300 sqft of custom concrete plaza, flow and bowl terrain punctuated by a large integrated green space and a selection of one-of-a-kind sculptural elements inspired by the area’s rich history and culture. Obstacles of particular note include the ‘Oil Derrick’ manual block, ‘Saw Blade’ bank wall, and expansive transitioned fun track that weaves around the park’s central planted island. The park is finished off with a number of viewing areas and picnic tables – providing a welcome environment for all visitors.

The sport is innovative and the language is unique. But the result is easily understood; skateboarding is an activity that combines challenge, athleticism and skill at its highest level. The skatepark is located at 4804-44 Street. Pa ge 50 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

The Off-Leash Park Committee was formed in 2012 to address the numerous requests from the community for a place for pet owners and their canine companions to engage in year round recreation and socialization. The Town of Drayton Valley is a vibrant, growing community with numerous dog owners. Many dog owners recognize the health benefits of having a safe place for their canine companions to run off-leash. Well exercised canines are less likely to create a nuisance, bark excessively and destroy property.

Another benefit of the Off-Leash Park is that canines will become better socialized (more familiar and friendly with other dogs and people) thereby raising community safety in general.

The Off-Leash Park entices more people to come and visit our town and often these visits mean engaging in other activities while they are here.

The Off-Leash Park is located at 5801-49 Avenue. Pa ge 51 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Landscape Plan

The Town of Drayton Valley created a contract position entitled Landscape Manager. This individual was charged with developing an Integrated Landscape Plan for the Town. This plan compliments the Community Sustainability Plan. The Landscape Plan addresses the following:

 appropriate vegetation and maintenance of same, focusing on native species  integrated pest management, focusing on the Town’s policy of “no spray”  protecting sensitive areas and rehabilitating others, ex: riparian areas  implementing “green” standards for grounds maintenance

ECDC Eco-Park

The ECDC Eco-park area reflects our own local rivers, communities & heritage. ex: canoes, oil derrick climbing wall, etc.. The ECDC Eco-Park also reflects our community’s own natural treasures and heritage. The park has an oil derrick climbing wall to represent our oil industry, a canoe to represent our journey and various local plant life.

Frank Maddock High School and Drayton Valley Brazeau County Fire Services Partnership

The Frank Maddock High School Firefighter Program first began in 2010. It offers students a unique opportunity to experience the challenges faced by firefighters in a safe and controlled environment, from basic skills like search and rescue, water stream application to operating fire apparatus.

The picture attached is from the first class of 2010. Pa ge 52 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Community Services Department

The Town’s Community Services Department has experienced huge success in creating partnerships and engaging the community in initiatives that enhance the quality of life for the residents.

Community Services oversees a number of different major projects, for example: 4-S Skatepark and the ARC Bark Park. We are currently working in partnership with Brazeau County on the Community Investment Plan which consists of five different community groups that require sponsorships to help with the completion of their projects.

Sustainability means many things, some of the initiatives that we run through our department is the POUR Program, Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Program. The POUR Program gives residents and businesses incentive to purchase Water Sense Certified toilets or Energy Star appliances when making upgrades to their home or business. The program allows them to qualify for a credit on their utility bill with proof of installation. Home Hardware has partnered with us since 2013 to sell Compost Bins at a discounted rate of $50.00 plus tax to all residents. Canadian Tire has partnered with us since 2014 to sell Rain Barrels at a discounted rate of $50.00.

Drayton Valley Municipal Library

The Drayton Valley Municipal Library, which started out as a volunteer project in 1957 by the Women’s Institute, now has a new Branch – The Rotary Children’s Library. We offer programs at both libraries focusing on all age groups including Story time, Manga Club, Book Clubs, Senior Coffee Time, Game Zone, with many new and upcoming programs this fall. We have over 20 internet stations and are a Wifi HotSpot. Our Summer Reading Program “Splash” features many artists, crafts and fun, including “S’More Stories Please”. Brought to you in conjunction with TD Canada Trust Drayton Valley. Tune in on Saturday Mornings at 10:30 am on Big West Radio Station 92.9 FM. The Library is a great supporter of the Communities in Bloom program in Drayton and we carry lots of gardening material in the form of books and magazines. Pa ge 53 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Cause for Critters Animal Rescue Society

The Cause for Critters Animal Rescue Society is a non-profit organization made up of a group of very caring volunteers. The goals of our society are to provide a venue to advertise lost and found animals, to reunite lost pets with their owners, to accept surrenders of pets that owners can no longer care for, to rescue domestic animals that are found in need of proper care, and to adopt out the surrendered and rescued animals to loving homes. We ensure that animals who stay at the shelter or with our foster parents are provided with proper health care, including mandatory spaying and neutering. Our volunteers take on many different roles. These include serving on the executive, fostering animals in their own homes, and taking care of the daily needs of the animals at the shelter. Our organization has grown and continues to grow, so we have taken on some paid office staff to allow the shelter to be open regularly to visitors from the community. We are available to help those who have domestic animals in need, but we also welcome visitors who come by just to enjoy the animals. You can also find us on the web and on facebook. A rescue society like ours benefits everyone in the community, from taking the stray animals off the street to providing a healthy social atmosphere for volunteers, visitors, and animals alike. We hope that you will take the time to support our cause in whatever way you can. The critters will thank you!

Drayton Valley Health Auxiliary

The Drayton Valley Health Auxiliary and Thrift Store has been instrumental in providing our hospital with much needed equipment. Every citizen of Drayton Valley has benefited from their hard work, dedication and financial contributions. Pa ge 54 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Kids Fire Fighting Camp

The camp was held in late August of 2013 with a total of 28 children from the ages of 8-12 years of age. The camp was a huge success and we are planning on having two camps in 2014. One located in Breton Fire Hall Station 2 along with one in Station 3 Drayton Valley.

The Boys and Girls Club of Drayton Valley Steering Committee recognized the need for a community approach to afterschool programming. A partnership that has been developed between FCSS, our two local school divisions, a local steering committee and the Boys and Girls Club of Wetaskiwin and has led to the establishment of a Boys and Girls Club of Drayton Valley. Parents of children ages 5-12 year will now have access to fully licensed afterschool programming at local elementary schools. Not only will these programs be delivered by a national program, licensing will allow parents to access government subsidies. Pa ge 55 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

EPBR Interpretive Signage Project

As a community, Drayton Valley promotes multi-generational education opportunities with a focus on stewardship. In the past, stewardship projects have ranged from adopt-a-block programs to community-led anti-littering campaigns and cleanups. In recent years, the movement has been focused on youth-led environmental ownership. The local Communities in Bloom (CIB) committee has been active in promoting youth environmental education and stewardship initiatives, often involving partnerships with local stakeholders. Notable projects include the Drayton Valley Early Childhood Development Centre’s promotion of “Good Bugs”, the Frank Maddock High School Football Team and its Community Garden, and recently the Eldorado Elementary Eco-Garden. Currently, the CIB committee’s focus is supporting the Evergreen Elementary and Eagle Point – Blue Rapids Parks Council’s Interpretive Signage Project.

The Interpretive Signage Project was inspired by an earlier partnership between Evergreen Elementary and the Parks Council, which incorporated technology and QR codes installed along a local trail system. The QR codes link trail users to on-line posters and sound bites developed by students. Last October, the current Grade 4 classes began their project by exploring the Rotary/Pembina Nordic Community Trails with the Parks Council, who shared their knowledge of local flora and fauna. The students were then given several topics to research for new interpretive signage to be installed along the Community Trails. Topics included local plant and animal species as well as the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Original artwork created by the students will also be showcased on their own individual signs. To conclude the project, an Opening Ceremony, hosted by the Parks Council and students, will be held in June to showcase the project to the CIB committee and community stakeholders. Not only does this project provide environmental education to the community, it also instills a sense of ownership in the students to ensure sustainability of our local wild places. Pa ge 56 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Community Foundation

The Drayton Valley Community Foundation is a registered charitable foundation incorporated December 1994 that accepts donations to establish permanent endowment funds for the Drayton Valley community. It is creating a community savings account for those in need. The Drayton Valley Community Foundation has created a sister foundation in Lushoto, Tanzania. This foundation was started on the same principles of the Drayton Valley Community Foundation. Another program that is receiving international attention is the Hearts for Lushoto AIDS Education and Prevention Program. This program provides female condoms to young African women as well as the necessary education in schools. With such great success the Tanzanian government is implementing this program in all schools.

Rotary Club of Drayton Valley The Rotary Club of Drayton Valley and the Pembina Nordic Ski Club have partnered to extend the cross country skiing and hiking trails that wind their way through the North Saskatchewan River Valley. With over 40 km of existing trails designed for cross country skiers, hikers, and mountain bikers, once completed this joint effort will create one of the province’s longest trail system in one area. This trail system falls within the boundaries of the new Eagle Point-Blue Rapids Provincial Park.

A few years back, Rotary Park was a location that suffered from frequent abuse by vandals and individuals involved in drugs. Efforts were taken by the community and the local RCMP to transform the landscaping in the park to deter this unacceptable behavior. Trees and vegetation were pruned to allow excellent visibility and clear sight lines through the park. This assisted significantly in reducing criminal activity.

The second strategy employed in Rotary Park was the introduction of more amenities that would attract families. These amenities include the water Splash Park, the Early Childhood Development Centre and theEco-Park. Today, Rotary Park is one of Drayton Valley’s favorite parks and is home to the annual Canada Day celebrations, where approximately 3000 people enjoy the park.

The Rotary Club’s primary project is Rotary House, a facility that houses several non-profit, community service agencies and organizations. It has been created on the principle of providing one location for people in need to find the resources they need. The Rotary Club raised over $1 Million dollars to renovate a surplus school building into office and meeting spaces. The renovation was completed in 2014 and currently houses five community agencies that exist to serve the community and its residents. Pa ge 57 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Rotary House – “Joining together under one roof to serve our community”

Committed to improving resources and services the Rotary Club of Drayton Valley combined with a tremendous amount of community support has given community service agencies the opportunity to work together under one roof; Rotary House. The project started in 2008 and will become a reality this summer as those organizations who make up the “Rotary House Partnering Agencies” prepare to relocate to the newly renovated facility.

This collaborative model will keep overhead costs down for partnering agencies so that more funding can be directed towards service delivery. This cooperation between agencies will lead to collaborative programming that addresses evolving community needs and develops better client-based programs, and those clients will now have a single point of contact as many of the services they may need to access will be under one roof.

The Rotary House Partnering Agencies comprised of; Drayton Valley and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), McMan Youth and Family Services, Humans Helping Humans Housing Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of Drayton Valley and Brighter Futures Family Resource Society, have worked collectively to develop four principles which will guide them as they work to serve the community together:

Accessibility – our organizations provide a welcoming environment of accessible services and programs that promote empowerment and mutual support.

Collaboration – our organizations make committed and vigorous efforts to listen and learn from each other to strengthen and enhance the long-term sustainability of our services and programs in the community.

Partnership – our organizations make efforts to work collectively for the common good while maintaining the diverse character of our individual agencies.

Responsible Participation – our organizations value mutuality and reciprocity in all our work.

Rotary House is not just a building that we want to move into to keep our overhead costs down; it's more than that. It will be a place where we can build meaningful partnerships with fellow service providers that will help us all to serve people in our community better. It will be a place where relationships will be built between the people who are served and the people who serve them; everyone involved will benefit in so many ways. Pa ge 58 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Social & Recreational Infrastructure

The social and recreational infrastructure that provides for Drayton Valley’s excellent quality of life is largely a product of the non-profit organizations and residents who reside within the town. Many of our community’s amenities exist because of the initiative taken and support given to these projects by community organizations. Here is a summary of only a few of these projects:

 The new Skateboard Park was initiated by a youth led group for a concrete form skateboard park. The group made several presentations to Councils and businesses, and promoted the proposal through the local radio and newspaper. The group’s fundraising efforts covered the majority of the capital cost.  The Omniplex has benefitted from numerous donations and contributions over the years, and it is through these donations that the Town was able to construct a quality facility that has long stood as the envy of rural Alberta  The Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre was converted from a privately owned movie theatre to a community operated performing arts centre. While the facility was purchased by the Town, a local non-profit group spearheaded the project and operates the centre. Major renovations to expand the centre are underway.  A local group of enthusiasts is the driving force behind a proposal for a regulation-size out door skating rink.  The land on which the Town’s Cadence Court affordable housing units sits was donated to the Town of Drayton Valley by the property owners, the Deby Family.  The majority of playgrounds within the town exist because of local neighborhoods rallying together to help in the design and raise the necessary funds to make them happen.

Pembina River Nursery

Pembina River Nurseries sponsored the seed planting lesson for the first Bloomin’ Big Walk and also provided assistance with choosing the flowers used for the Adopt-a-planter contest. Pembina Nurseries was also instrumental in obtaining the seed packets that were handed out as committee members walked in the Canada Day Parade.

Bumper to Bumper Bumper to Bumper has provided Communities in Bloom with ongoing financial and in- kind support.

Drayton Valley Chamber of Commerce The Drayton Valley and District Chamber of Commerce has developed a “Shop Local” campaign to encourage people to shop right here in Drayton Valley. Each month, four businesses are featured in the Chamber newsletter and state what the advantages are to shopping locally at their business. Pa ge 59 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

The Humans Helping Humans Housing Foundation Story

A few years ago the booming oil and gas industry fueled the economy in Alberta to an unprecedented level. Though many Albertans benefited from the boom, some were left behind. There is a large income gap between workers in the oil industry and those employed in other sectors. That disparity was most noticeable in the housing market.

In 2004 the average selling price of a home in Drayton Valley was $158,859. By 2007 it was $277,507 a 75% increase*. Today this price is closer to $400,000 for comparable homes. As house prices go up it starts a snowball effect of challenges for low to middle income families. Spiraling home prices increase the amount needed for a down payment to purchase a home. That leads many families into rental property, this lowers the vacancy rate, increases demand and in turn forces increases of rental rates. Unfortunately many families become “rent broke” and saving for such a large down payment becomes virtually impossible forcing them to stay a renter. Home ownership becomes a distant and unobtainable dream that is seemingly only for the privileged minority. For many years local businessman, Hack Hamdon, was aware of the need for affordable housing in Drayton Valley and had a dream of helping struggling families with this need. He spent many months and countless hours working with Habitat For Humanity to set up an affiliate in Drayton Valley. Unfortunately Habitat decided that the community was too small to sustain an affiliate.

In February of 2007, with the support of Family and Community Support Services, a call went out to the residents of Drayton Valley to meet and discuss the possibility of the community building a home for a family in need. The response was tremendous with more than 30 people attending the first meeting. It was obvious that the generosity of the community would again extend itself to address such a dire need. After many meetings a dedicated group of 8 volunteers plowed forward on fundraising, planning and organizing until finally on December 11, 2007 the Humans Helping Humans Housing Foundation was officially a Not For Profit Society. Again the outpouring of community spirit was overwhelming. Before long the Town of Drayton Valley awarded the Foundation with a grant close to $84,000. Business owners stepped up and donated nearly $100,000. A lot was purchased, policies were written, plans were drafted, and tradesmen & neighbors volunteered. Soon a duplex project was underway and the first two “Humans families were new home owners. Since that first build, five homes have been constructed and seven Drayton Valley families have had the opportunity to own their own homes thanks to Humans Helping Humans. Faced with a problem, the people of the community joined together and came up with a “made in Drayton”. Humans Helping Humans Housing Foundation is planning their next build in 2014! Pa ge 60 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Heritage Conservation

Aboriginal Day

On June 21st Aboriginal Day was hosted at Evergreen Elementary School in Drayton Valley. This brought out over 500 people from students to seniors. This event was in partnership with WRPSD, FCSS, Big West Machine & Welding, and Lamb’s Trucking. The day consisted of Tee-Pee set up, round dancing, crafts, awards, bannock buffalo burgers and Grass Dancing by our local dancer Colton Graham Smith. Juanita Graham Smith and son, Colton, has done numerous presentations in our community and area over the years. They continue to educate and perform to celebrate First Nations culture. Colton is a grass dancer and Juanita a traditional First Nations dancer. They both performed at the Grand Opening of our MacKenzie Conference Centre, in lieu of ribbon cutting. They have also performed Canada Day and Aboriginal days to name just a few. Colton has the received the First Nation’s Metis Inuit Student Success Award from the Wildrose Public School Division. He is extremely proud of his culture and clearly understands and educates this culture whether it is through dance, traditions, prayers and morals within the First Nations. He is an outstanding First Nations Ambassador in our Community. Pa ge 61 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Legion

Founded in 1957 the Drayton Valley Legion Branch 269 has seen many additions to the manner in which our local veterans are honoured.

In the early 70’s the Cenotaph area saw the cenotaph complete with sidewalks, greenery and an entrance arch installed.

Largely unchanged until 2000, the Legion Mural was added. A dream of local Veteran, Comrade Betty McGee, became a reality and has become one of Drayton Valley's most treasured murals. Local Veterans were brought to life on the South entrance facing the cenotaph. These local heroes stand proudly at the Legion entrance and honour all aspects of the Canadian Forces.

The Legion’s Wall of Honor was the dream of Veteran, Comrade Frank Newberry. Each year, as Veterans pass, their names are placed on this prestigious wall and unveiled during the Spring VE Day (Victory in Europe) ceremony.

Since 2000 the Legion and it’s volunteers have restored the cenotaph, installed 6 flag poles, repoured sidewalks, added lighting and security, installed 2 Armored Personnel Carriers, a Replica P-51 Mustang and the Anchor from the HMCS Fraser.

In 2012 the Communities in Bloom in conjunction with the Cadet squadron planted tulip bulbs received directly from the Holland Embassy as well as poppies grown locally and donated in the first of three phases planned to honour local veterans and continues the collaboration to this day.

In 2014 Our Committee has dedicated a large portion of its budget along with some grant application and community sponsorship to restore the Legion Mural. We are looking forward to this as our lead project for the upcoming year.

Photos taken courtesy of Heather Rennison Pa ge 62 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Heritage Conservation

Multicultural Association

Drayton Valley Multicultural Association Several years ago a group of ladies got together to share their ethnic dress, national costumes, different foods and music. As the town grew and more and more people from different countries arrived, it was decided to form the Drayton Valley Multicultural Association in 2010 and welcome people from all backgrounds.

The Association has grown from its humble beginnings to include a large number of families from all continents. DVMA decided to focus its energies on the theme of “bridging countries and enhancing communities” and have been involved in many civic and community service activities. DVMA joined the Ride for Cancer, held a BBQ, and organized fundraisers for victims of the Haiti earthquake and the Philippine typhoon. It also contributed toward the renovation of the Eleanor Pickup Theatre, and, in 2010, hosted a Halloween Party for the whole community, at the request of the Town of Drayton Valley.

In 2012 DVMA hosted a lunch for the judges and town councilors on the occasion of the Communities in Bloom Provincial Competition and in 2013 hosted a Multicultural Fair at a local elementary school. The Association also holds a bi-annual Newcomers Welcoming Dinner, annual Christmas parties, and participates each year in various activities of the heritage component of Canada Day festivities, such as a henna booth, exhibitions, and dance performances. In 2011 DVMA entered a float in the Canada Day Parade and won second place, as well as the Spirit Award at the Mayor’s Gala Event.

The business community, the Town of Drayton Valley and Brazzeau County have all been very supportive of the Association, helping to sponsor its many events. Association memberships are available and new members are always welcome. Email: [email protected] and Facebook: www.facebook.com/dvmca. An executive meets monthly to plan events. The Drayton Valley Multicultural Association is a group proud to be Canadian, yet keeping close ties to culture and traditions, creating bonds of friendship between diverse groups of people. Pa ge 63 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Pa ge 64 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Presents

Drayton Valley Presents was organized in 1977 with a full executive and presented 5 concerts in the first year. Their mandate is to bring a variety of touring performers to rural Alberta. They work to assist other local organizations in providing entertainment for their fundraising efforts. In 2005, DV Presents Concerts and the Max Centre (theatre) became partners. Some of the entertainment includes Gilbert & Sullivan Operettas, Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, Bobby Curtola and Fiddler on the Roof.

Masonic Hall

The Masonic Hall was built in the late 1950s as the Amoco Safety Hall. It was situated on the lot across from the present RCMP Station. When Amoco expanded and no longer had use for it, it was sold to the Masons for $1.00 if they would move it and it was relocated to the present site.

Genealogical Society

Since 1994 the Drayton Valley Branch of Alberta Genealogical Society has been helping people find their ancestors and family in different parts of the world. Pa ge 65 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Historical Society

The Drayton Valley Historical Society was formed in 1979 with a goal to preserve , maintain, exhibit and expand the Drayton Valley and district historical resources. The site presently houses: Anglican Church, Rocky Rapids Store, Eldorado School, and the Herndon House, with plans underway to establish an oilfield display.

The Society also created “History in a Box”. This product is loaned out throughout the school year to local schools to teach children about frontier heritage. The box includes artifacts, photos and stories about our vibrant past. We also partner with the Genealogical Society in doing monthly columns which highlight past events and people in our community.

We will celebrate a year of new adventures with Communities in Bloom and will be hosting our second annual “Bloomin’ good time “ at the Museum. We will be highlighting our young heritage with a 50’s Theme sock hop and BBQ to bring further awareness of our unique history and encourage more locals to take in and support the Museum. We also created, researched and designed our first of several sites on our self guided tour previously described in Profile Book. We are very excited about this project and can’t wait to bring technology and history together.

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Pa ge 67 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Drayton Valley Fine Arts Society

Since 1992 the Drayton Valley Fine Arts Society’s mandate has been to promote art in the community. The society’s home-base is in the Valley Gallery where they hold monthly meetings and hang paintings. Other locations where paintings are on display are the Pembina Education Consortium, Drayton Valley Health Centre, MacKenzie Conference Centre and some local businesses. The D.V.F.A.S. “Art in the Park” was amalgamated with the Town’s Canada Day Celebration. The society holds its Christmas Show in November, workshops throughout the year, a small groupof members gather each Thursday and there is an outdoor camping trip every year in August for anyone who would like to attend. Pa ge 68 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

The Communities in Bloom committee wishes to dedicate this year to our lost committee member, Vi Koehmsteadt who passed away suddenly in November 2013. Vi sat as the liaison for the Historical Society and Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre. We could not have done all the work it took to make the self guided historical tour reality without her insight , guidance, passion and research. She was a wonderful lady and she is sorely missed in our hearts and Community. We will be planting a tree and small memorial honoring this remarkable volunteer.

Vi received the Community Sustainability Award in October 2013 for enormous dedication and volunteerism. Pa ge 69 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre

The Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre is a venue that encourages participation in the performing arts while preserving the history and heritage of a local landmark. The Eleanor Pickup Centre Performing Arts, Centre was formerly a movie theatre and the second major building for Drayton Valley after the old Hotel. This was originally built by the same person so the hotel’s clients had something to do in the evenings. Plans are currently underway for extensive renovations.

Pa ge 70 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Creating a Home for the Arts in Drayton Valley

Phases 1 and 2 of construction Pa ge 71 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Before and After Shots of the Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre. Phase 1 Completed Spring 2014. Pa ge 72 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Donor Recognition

Upon completion of the renovations,

a Wall of Honor will permanently recognize contributions.

All significant donations will be permanently memorialized upon completion of the theatre renovations.

Home to the Kin Performing Arts Festival

Approx. 2 weeks + a final concert

393 performances Over 1000 participants

Adjudications, workshops with students and opportunities for local talent to go on to Provincial competitions Pa ge 73 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Film Productions

Two local film productions have occurred in the past year.  Jason Thompson (I’m with Hobo)  Mike Rye (One Hill Productions)

There is local interest to have a movie industry established in the community and have joined forces with our local EPAC . The film school will be held in theatre.

Rotary Children’s Library

The Rotary Children’s Library interior mural represents all 4 seasons (art display). A local artist has extended his artistic reach into the community by completing a mural inside the Rotary

Children’s Library. The mural is a whimsical interpretation of fairies and woodland creatures enjoying the four seasons of our year. The mural promotes children enjoying nature.

“Words On Wheels” as part of the Rotary Children’s Library, purchased a van. This program reaches the areas of Cynthia, Lodgepole, Violet Grove & Rocky Rapids, as library services are provided through mobile services. This gives these smaller communities the chance to have the Library experience come to them.

ECDC –Early Childhood Development Centre

The Drayton Valley Early Childhood Development centre has been following the vision of Earth Spirited children since our doors opened in 2008. Children have explored the local forest and put it to sleep for the winter through an interpretive walk with the Eagle Points Blue Rapids Park staff. In the summer we bring in caterpillars and watch them transform to butterflies and release them along with 250 lady bugs into our Eco Park to “naturally” govern other garden pests. The children are becoming true stewards to the environment and have begun educating their parents in vermicomposting and recycling. Parents and Vermilion Energy have worked beside us digging and planting flowers and shrubs in our Eco Park in the continuous efforts to create a natural playspace for our children. It is our hope for our children that they will have the tools to become self -sufficient as adults growing and nurturing this wonderful earth that we all share. Pa ge 74 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Pa ge 75 Communities in Bloom V ol. 3,

Providing opportunities for adult audiences can be found in our Citizen Science and Park Watch Programs. These volunteer based programs, mostly self directed, run throughout the year and provide opportunities through social media to report wildlife encounters, natural features, trail conditions, illegal activities or suggestions for improved land use. Each of the Parks Council’s operating partner members actively participate in these programs, while also being responsible for facility enhancements, connectivity and providing relevant recreational programming in our community.

In the past, the Parks Council has hosted a number of major events. Parks Day is a free celebration of our community’s accomplishments in the establishment and ongoing management of the Park System. We also host the Adaptive Parkland Challenge in our community, where we, along with the Push To Open Nature Society and Alberta Parks, encourage everyone to participate in outdoor activities, regardless of mobility, language or financial limitations. The Parks Council is also a major partner of Our Places, Green Spaces – the newly implemented Earth Week celebrations in Drayton Valley and Brazeau County. We attend many local fairs, trade shows and tourism conferences that showcase our community as one that is inclusive, active, inspired and a place to play responsibly. Pa ge 76 Communities in Bloom Vol.Vol.2, 3, IssueIssue1 1

Brazeau County Community Halls and Associations

Brazeau County is proud of its rural community and the many organizations that host events and activities for people of all ages. There are 12 Community Associations and Halls within Brazeau County. They are: Berrymoor Centre, Buck Creek Community Association, Carnwood Country Hall Society, Cynthia Recreation Association, Easyford Community Centre Society, Funnel Community Hall Association, Lindale Community Hall, Lodegpole Recreation Society, New Moose Hill Community Club, Rocky Rapids Community League, Violet Grove Community Club and Whitby Community League. Each of the Community Associations host many events throughout the year such as, ball tournaments, Christmas pageants, jamborees, skating parties, Yuk Yuk's Comedy night, rodeos, fishing derbies, music festivals, and curling bonspiels. Many of these facilities can be booked for weddings and family reunions as well.

Several of the Community Associations are over 50 years old and they include: the Berrymoor Centre, which was originally the Berrymoor School that opened in 1919, Buck Creek Community Association in 1961; Carnwood Country Hall Society, which used to be the Liberton School,Easyford Hall which opened in 1942, Funnell Community Hall Association in 1958, Lindale Community Hall which was opened in 1927, New Moose Hill Community Club, which was originally the New Moose Hill School that opened in 1929, Rocky Rapids Community League in 1949, Violet Grove Community Club, which was originally the Violet Grove School that opened in 1935.

The Violet Grove Community Hall is located in the Hamlet of Violet Grove which is approximately 7.2 km southwest of Drayton Valley. It is the current location of the Violet Grove School which was built back in 1935 and closed in 1960. The hall seats approximately 80 people and have annual events such as a children’s Christmas Concert and a Fall Pig Roast. Pa ge 77 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Brazeau County Historical School Sign Project

2013 marked the 25th anniversary of Brazeau County becoming its own municipality and with the rich heritage that makes up this area, residents, council, and administration saw the importance of completing a project that fell to the back burner.

“In 2008 this project actually started,” explains Wanda Compton, manager of economic development and communications. “We looked into identifying the historical schools which existed in Brazeau County and to have metal signs produced and installed to commemorate the schools, but at that time [we] only did five schools.” After those first five were completed, nothing more came of the initiative until divisional meetings throughout the county saw residents reaffirm the importance of what had been started.

Following those discussions for the 2013 budget, council passed a motion to have the project completed and in June 2013 work began to get the remaining 17 signs created and erected.

“We want to create a sense of community pride, pride of place, and to honour part of Brazeau County’s important heritage,” shares Compton.

Recognizing how important residents are to helping this project come to completion, Compton says those who assisted were an amazing wealth of knowledge and were an important key to what was done.

“We wanted to thank the residents, they were a fantastic resource for us and actually some of them physically drove the county with us to help us land the spot where the sign should be,” she explained. “We greatly appreciate the support we had from the community and the residents, we hope they take the opportunity to go around and look at the sign and know that it’s their heritage. We also need to recognize the fine work by Big West Machine, a local company that produced our signage.” Pa ge 78 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Brazeau County Historical Schoolhouses

 Antross District – District # 4614, NW-23-47-4 W5M – opened in 1933 and closed in 1948;  Berrymoor School District – District # 3860, NE-36-49-6 W5M – opened in 1919 and closed in 1956. It is now the current site of the Berrymoor Community Hall;  Buck Creek – District 4603, SW-18-48-6 W5M – opened in 1958, unknown when it was closed. Used to be called Meadowdale School;  Dunington School – District 4674, SE-20-48-8 W5M – opened in 1935 and closed in 1960;  Elk Head School – District 4747, SW-1-50-9 W5M – opened in 1936 and closed in 1940;  Funnell School District – District 2638 – NE-15-48-4 W5M – opened in 1912 and closed in 1954;  Laurel School – District 4664, SE-1-50-8 W5M – opened in 1935 and closed in 1950;  Liberton School District – District 3973, SW-35-48-5 W5M – opened in 1920, unknown when it was closed; is now the Carnwood Country Hall Society;  Meadowdale School District – District 4603, SW-18-48-6 W5M – opened in 1932, building sold to Buck Creek in 1961;  Modeste Creek School District (Lindale) – District 3268, NE-21-49-5 W5M – opened in 1915 and unknown when it closed; name change to Lindale in 1949;  Moon Valley District – District 4719, 47-7 W5M – unknown actual location; can’t find records;  New Moose Hill School District – District 4453, SW13-48-5 W5M – opened in 1929, unknown when it was closed;  Northend School District – District 4818, 10-50-5 W5M – opened in 1938, closed in 1950;  Onion Creek School District – District 4637, NE-6-49-5 W5M – opened in 1934 and destroyed by fire in 1942;  Perryville/Easyford School – District 4622, SW-5-50-8 W5M – opened in 1933, unknown when it was closed;  Ramona School – District 4527, SW-36-50-7 W5M – opened in 1930, unknown when it was closed;  Rocky Rapids School – District 4125, SE-3-50-7 W5M – opened in 1922, closed in 1957;  Saskatoon Valley School – District 4693, 10-49-4 W5M – opened in 1935, closed in 1957;  Spring Glade School – District 4748, SW-29-50-7 W5M – opened in 1936, unknown when it was closed;  Timberlane/Clover Trail School – District 4829, SE-16-49-8 W5M – opened in 1938, closed in 1948;  Violet Grove School – District 4665, SW-30-48-7 W5M – opened in 1935 and closed in 1963;  Whitby School – District 2391, SW-27-50-6 W5M – opened in 1911 and destroyed by fire in 1947.

Pa ge 79 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Urban Forestry

For many years Drayton Valley has been adding to the urban forest that exists throughout our Town. Aided by Community Groups such as Communities in Bloom, developers, residents, industry, and natural regeneration our forest grows every year.

The benefits are myriad in scope; increased bio-diversity, more habitats for furred and feathered wildlife, shade in summer, wind-screens in winter, a better filter for rain or snow run-off; aesthetic continuity from rural to urban landscapes, beautification of streets and yards, and nicer walks with your friends. From carbon capture to improved aesthetics our forest benefits our community. We have also benefitted by the presence of the Weyerhaeuser Company which has donated thousands of trees, through the national grant program; Tree Plan Canada. Included in our Drayton Valley Community Sustainability Plan there are recommendations for increasing our urban forest through innovative and progressive legislation.

The Landscape Management Plan (LMP) is a guiding document with specific recommendations on Native Trees. Drayton Valley will use materials, products, services and landscaping practices that use native and or naturalized plants, drought-resistant turf grasses, slow-release or no fertilizers to reduce nutrient run-off, environmentally-sensible mulches, landscape lighting that conserves energy, supply systems which conserve water, andeco-friendly pest management.

The Town of Drayton Valley is a member of the Agroforestry & Woodlot Extension Society of Alberta (AWES)

Individual park recommendations from the LMP, example: Recommendations for North View Park: The mature treed area within this Park must be cleaned out of both the dead and dying danger trees. Reduction of the heavily overgrown underbrush can be accomplished by using hand crews. The west portion of the park that is presently all lawn should be planted in 2 clumps with a variety of 10 dogwood, 5 choke cherry and 5 crabapple trees for aesthetics, habitat, and to reduce this unused lawn area. The northwest portion of the park along the residential fence should be filled in with 15 to 20 lilacs, preferably a taller example of the specie (Syringa vulgaris). The remaining planted juvenile trees need only future maintenance. Water runoff will be enhanced by deepening the profile of the existing ephemeral draw/ditch through the centre of this park.

There is a tree nursery established at the water treatment site beside the Coulee Road. In June, 2011, 450 lodgepole pine and 160 white spruce have been planted as future municipal stock. The stock is the appropriate provincial provenance and was planted as 415-B plugs by town summer staff.

Please reference the LMP Appendix “A”: Native Trees and Shrub Specie Recommended for Drayton Valley . Pa ge 80 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Pa ge 81 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Sustainable Development

In an effort to create sustainable development within Drayton Valley, the Planning and Development Department has been working closely with the Sustainability Committee to establish bylaws regarding landscaping requirements for both new and existing developments. As a result of this collaboration, proposals will be made to Town Council to implement policies for the protection of our urban forest, while increasing our inventory of trees and native vegetation, as well as providing standards for landscaping of commercial, institutional and residential properties which our entire community can be proud of.

Complete Streets Program

The Complete Streets Program is included in the Drayton Valley’s Community Sustainability Plan. Complete streets policies promote planning, engineering and transportation policies that provide a safer, more convenient and comfortable road network for every user, regardless of transportation mode, physical ability or age. Through working with citizens, engineers, and local businesses we will assess a specific street of its particular fitting to the definition of a complete street, take these ideas, implement them and then use these same ideas for further development of other town roads. This will ensure a more efficient road system for motorists and pedestrians for many years to come and increase the productivity of commerce in the downtown area and industrial zones.

Administration

It has often been mentioned by members of the community just how great the trail systems are within the Town of Drayton Valley. Not only the open areas near schools and recreation but also the trails systems that weave themselves through the beautifully treed parks such as Ivan To Park, near the Omniplex and Lions West Valley Park and at the other end of town near Aurora Elementary and Northview Gardens. Town Administration had hired a Landscape Manager who developed the Landscape Plan, which addresses the urban forest. The manager of Public Works employs both full time and part time summer staff to take care of our tree maintenance and succession planting. Town Administration enlists the help of a local Arborist to assist Public Works with the needs of our urban forests. Town Council is working to develop new policies to encourage and promote the preservation of heritage trees within Drayton Valley.

Tree of Peace

Also in North View Park is the annual planting of the Canadian Girls in Training Tree of Peace commemorative trees. Several Colorado blue spruce have been planted and there are plans to continue this well supported function. Pa ge 82 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Pa ge 83 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

The Peace Pole located in Northview Park was dedicated September 21, 2011 by the Canadian Girls in Training (CGIT) as an anniversary gift to the community of Drayton Valley. The event marked the 95th Anniversary of CGIT in Canada (1915-2010). The languages chosen for our Peace Pole represents the four languages spoken by members of our group at that time – English, French, German and Cree. Our dedication ceremony included the words “May Peace prevail on Earth” spoken in each of the languages on the pole and then shared again in unison at the end of the ceremony. During a moment of silent prayer, each person present sprinkled rose petals around the Peace Pole. Our Peace Dove flew high on the breeze (www.janegoodall.org) and the Tree of Peace was planted after everyone had an opportunity to write private messages on paper and then bury them in the hole prepared to receive the Tree of Peace.

A Peace Pole is a monument that displays the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth” in the language of the country where it has been placed, and usually 3 to 5 additional translations. The message is referred to as a peace prayer. In 1955, the concept of the Peace Pole was created by Masahisa Goi (Japan). Today, the “Peace Pole Project” is furthered by The World Peace Prayer Society. The first Peace Poles outside Japan were constructed in 1983. Since then, more than 100,000 have been placed around the world in over 180 countries. The Tree of Peace is an important symbol in the Iroquois culture. An Eastern White Pine was the symbol of the Iroquois constitution known as theGayanashagowa or Great Law of Peace given by The Great Peacemaker to the Iroquois people hundreds of years before the European discovery of America.] Its characteristic bundles of five needles became the symbol of the Five Nations joined together as one. According to Iroquois tradition, the Great Law of Peace ended the ancient cycle of enmity and continuous conflict between the separate tribes and united them into the Iroquois Confederacy that made them into the most powerful force in North America until the rapid expansion of European colonization in the 18th century. Following a battle, the enemy tribes were invited to join together and dig a large hole, throw into the hole all weapons of war, hatred, greed and jealousy A Tree of Peace was planted on top, sending its roots in all four directions to symbolize:

East – Peace and Light West – Rain South – Warmth North – cold winds bring Strength and Endurance

In Drayton Valley, a Tree of Peace is planted on International Peace Day, (September 22) and a Peace Dove is flown. The tradition evolved after the Canadian Girls In Training (CGIT) hosted a weekend Peace Rally in 2006 at the Drayton Valley United Church. Peace colors (white and blue) have been incorporated in the plant materials added in the summer of 2012.

Thank-you for coming to learn about some of the symbols of peace from around the world. Dianne Nikiforuk CGIT Leader Pa ge 84 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Commercial and Industrial Sector

TD Green Streets Program

As part of the Community Sustainability Plan, the Town of Drayton Valley was chosen by TD Friends of the Environment Foundation and Tree Canada for the Green Streets Program. This project helps the municipality split the cost of implementing urban greening in a very industrialized area of community. We worked with the town and volunteers to develop the land, which includes benches and tables surrounded by various trees and flowers that require little maintenance and offer great enjoyment for all.

TD Friends of the Environment - Tree Days

The Town of Drayton Valley has participated in TD Tree Days since 2012. TD Tree Days provides TD employees, their families, and members of the community the opportunity to volunteer in the communities where they live and work and to demonstrate their commitment to forest stewardship.

Pih-to-kwe Campground

Pih-to-kwe Campground, located only moments from town, is a great example of a natural camping environment. Operated and maintained by the Metis Association, this campground showcases nature at its finest. Pa ge 85 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Commercial and Industrial Sector

Weyerhaeuser

Weyerhaeuser Company has donated thousands of trees to The Town of Drayton Valley through the national grant program, Tree Plan Canada.

Apex Commons

Ponds and flow reduction development by Ferry Group behind APEX/Monarch yard (beside the Aspen Waste Management Access road. Planted trees in 2011 on the pond berms at APEX Commons Pa ge 86 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Clean Energy and Technology Centre (CETC)

This Clean Energy and Technology Centre (CETC) will begin construction in the summer of 2014 and will be ready for the community to access services mid-2015. The CETC will be located in the heart of the Bio-Mile industrial cluster dedicated to innovative solutions from waste to energy. Existing industry includes Sawmill, Co-Generation Power Plant, and a Bio-composites Fibremat Plant. Future prospects are a bio-refinery and related industries involved in clean energy and production of consumer products. Drayton Valley is home to oil and gas, forestry, and agriculture. The Centre will offer services to industry including: education and training business development and incubation, research and development and applied research.

Our mandate is to enhance the needs of industry, by providing education and training for existing & new emerging industries and technologies. We have a partnership with NorQuest College to be the provider of accredited and non- accredited education and skills training. NorQuest College will be located their Drayton Valley Campus at the CETC.

Training and development is a precondition to the economic growth and sustainability of our community. By acting as a concierge for academia and industry, the Clean Energy and Technology Centre will be the catalyst in creating and delivering programming to meet the increasing demand for a highly-skilled and educated labour force.

The centre will: Anticipate and facilitate new program development based on the needs of industry. Partner with academic institutions. Deliver labour force with skills and education that match industry demand.

The Town of Drayton Valley is actively seeking partners to join us to help realize the potential of the Clean Energy and Technology Centre and the entire Bio-Mile development. Countless discussions and many ideas have been distilled down into the design concept. Our framework for development is progressive, while remaining flexible and adaptable. Pa ge 87 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1 Floral Displays

It is said that flowers are the beautiful hieroglyphics of nature; that they seem to sing to our soul as they are rustled by gentle breezes. Residents of Drayton Valley can enjoy some of the most amazing floral displays. Huge floral baskets, dripping in color, adorn many of the town's light standards.

The in ground flower beds containing a combination of both perennial and annual flowers seem to simply sprout up from the sod, giving the illusion that they are merely an extension of the landscape. Many of these flower beds can be seen as one takes advantage of our walking paths.

Our downtown revitalization has included beautiful raised flower beds and benches, encouraging people to not only "shop local", but to sit, enjoy and to actually take time out of their busy days to "smell" the flowers! Ralph Waldo Emerson once said that the earth laughs in flowers and this could never be more evident than right here in Drayton Valley.

A note from the designers of the flowerbeds for Drayton Valley:

“We are Judy Schwaudt from Eco Scape Design and Lucia Bezirtzis of Passiflora Horticare. We have blended our ideas to grow, design and maintain the flower gardens that you now enjoy. We would like to pass along some of our ideas to grow a beautiful garden. It can be big or small, from a well put together pot to a large display. One important factor is texture. Start with a few well placed, interesting rocks of various sizes. Combine large leafed foliage with medium flowers and some smaller blooms. Next, consider your colour pallet. Choose what appeals to you. We like to combine bright colours such as hot pink, deep orange, purple, red and blue. Because the season in Alberta is so short, we plant flowers with larger root systems (bigger pots) to have an instant and lasting impact. We choose flowers (perennials or annuals) that will bloom all summer and can withstand a little frost. We hope these few hints will be helpful and offer you some insight into what we use for inspiration. Sincerely” Pa ge 88 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Businesses in Dodson Plaza have purchased and planted planters for their storefronts. Many businesses continue to increase support each year in beautifying our community. There has been great involvement in the Communities in Bloom program from businesses in our downtown core. Not only have they put up signs and done up flower pots but this has also spurred on friendly competition between business owners. The Town receives almost $20,000.00 in public sponsorships for our flowerbeds, pots and hanging baskets.

The Lions Club of Drayton Valley at one time took care of all the flower beds within the town. As Drayton Valley continued to grow, the work load ended up being too much for the volunteer group. However, the Lions Club not only sponsors a bed they also plant and weed it throughout the year. Residents and businesses of Drayton Valley have been very keen to show their participation in the Communities in Bloom program by placing participation signs in their yards and storefronts. Pa ge 89 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Flower Bed Sponsorships

7-11 Arc Resources Ltd Brandette Well Servicing Ltd. Bumper to Bumper Carlson Roberts Seely Chartered Accountants Carol Lapointe Professional Services Conoco Phillips Debbie Dusterhoft Drayton Valley Redi-Mix D.V. Rentals FIneline Signs Fountain Tire Leslie & Karen Schatz Loadstar Enterprises Marnie Matthies Century 21 NorQuest College Parkway Enterprises PennWest Exploration R & L Pumpjack Ltd. Scotty’s Gas Bar Signarama The Lions Club of Drayton Valley Valley Power Ltd. Partnership Pa ge 90 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Flower Pot and Hanging Basket Sponsorships

7-11 Oellan Computers Advantage Manufacturing Ltd. Parkway Enterprises Appara Shoes Powerhouse Financial Big West Dodge Remax Venture Realty Bob Dale Oilfield Services Salzl Family Brighter Futures Stitches & Dreams Crystal Glass Canada Ltd. Super 8 Motel Cupe Local #2515 T-Bones Specialty Foods Drayton Valley Eye Care TD Canada Trust DV Insurance Agency The Brick For-Tec Inc. The Carwashing Company Fountain Tire The Gold Poke Getzingers Auto Body Tri-Electric Global Pet Foods Two River 4H Beef Club Go West Wireless Valley House of Flowers Hayduck Picker Services West Country Inn Hydro Vacuum Oilfield Services Windy Ridge Septic Vacuum Services In Memory of Ernie Towne Your Choice In Memory of Ron Harden Your Health Naturally Inkpot Press Measurement Inc. Mandy and Tyler Layden Kelly’s Trucking Mulligan Registries Eye Spy Line Inspections Nelson Bro’s Lewcam Holdings Ltd. Northern Thunder Car Club

Pa ge 91 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Thank You

Photo Credit:

Laural MacDonald

Communities in Bloom Committee Members

Amanda Grue Photography

Digital Photograph-Fix

Leslie Allen, Western Review

Tanya Rumak Pa ge 92 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Appendix “A”

Native Trees and Shrub Specie Recommended for Drayton Valley

Trees

Alnus tenuifolia - River Alder Crataegus chrysocarpa - Hawthorne Larix laricina - Tamarack / Larch Picea glauca - White Spruce Pinus contorta - Lodgepole Pine Populus balsamifera - Balsam Poplar Populus tremuloides - Trembling Aspen Prunus pensylvanica – Pincherry Prunus virginiana: Choke Cherry Sorbus scopulina - Western Mt Ash

NOTES:

Although birches are commonly planted it is strongly recommended that no species of birch for 20 years due to endemic birch die-back. (Betula papyrifera – paper birch; betula occidentalis - River Birch). There is one exception and that is Betula glandulosa or Dwarf Birch due to its height and habitat.

Balsam poplar (populous balsamifera) is not recommended due to the large and very sticky catkins it produces every spring to drop on your car, and due to allergic reactions

Tall Shrub (over 8 foot)

Alnus crispa - Green Alder Amelanchier alnifolia - Saskatoon Elaeagnus commutate – Silverberry / Wolf Willow Shepherdia Canadensis - Russet Buffaloberry Salix bebbiana - Diamond Willow Salix discolor - Pussy Willow Salix interior - Sandbar Willow Salix lucida - Tawny Willow Salix petiolaris- Blackbud Willow Sambucus racemosa – Elderberry Shepherdia argentea - Silver / Thorny Buffaloberry Pa ge 93 Communities in Bloom Vol. 3, Issue1

Medium Shrub (4 to 8 foot) Cornus sericea - Red Osier Dogwood Ribes aureum - Gold Currant Salix lutea - Yellow Pussy Willow Betula glandulosa - Dwarf Birch

Low Shrub (less than 4 foot) Juniperus communis - Common Juniper Lonicera involucrate - Bracted Honeysuckle Rhamnus alnifolia - Alder Leaved Buckthorn Ribes oxyacanthoides – Gooseberry Rosa acicularis - Prickly Rose Rosa arkansana - Prairie Rose Rosa woodsii - Common Wild Rose Rubus idaeus – Raspberry Rubus parviflorus – Thimbleberry Rubus pedatus - Trailing Raspberry Salix barrattiana ‘Jasper’- Jasper Willow Salix candida - Hoary Willow Salix commutata ‘Powderface’ - Powderface Willow Salix glauca - Grey Leaf Willow Shepherdia Canadensis - Russet Buffaloberry Spiraea betulifolia - Birch Leaf Meadowsweet Symphoricarpos albus - Snowberry Symphoricarpos occidentalis - Western Snowberry Viburnum edule - Low Bush Cranberry

Vine Clematis occidentalis- Little Blue Clematis Clematis ligusticifolia- Western White Clematis Lonicera dioica - Twining Honeysuckle

Ground Cover Arctostaphylos uva-ursi - Kinnikinnick / Bearberry Cornus Canadensis - Bunchberry Juniperus horizontalis - Creeping Juniper

Qualified personnel Keith Ebbs prepared the Landscape Management Plan and is a Registered Forestry Practitioner and a member of the College of Forest Technologists. Tyson Mortensen is a registered tree arborist.