Brooks Region Tourism hired Craig Lester from Rural Roots Canada to do an Agritourism research project. Lester collected strategies and examples of sustainable Agritourism initiatives. The key insights for the Brooks Region are:

Local Focus: 82% of Alberta's tourism comes from Albertans, particularly from big cities. These visitors are keen on experiencing rural life, such as petting animals and farm visits, which are novel and exciting for them.

Target Audience: The main groups include RV travellers heading to Alaska, young families seeking affordable activities, and individuals/couples wanting immersive experiences.

Challenges: Farmers face barriers like time constraints, lack of promotional knowledge, and the need for a collaborative agritourism network to manage and promote their offerings effectively.

Brooks Region Tourism received a $40,000 grant for an Agritourism development project. The goal is to create a 3 to 5-year agritourism strategic plan. The plan will draw on the experience of businesses that participate in Open Farm days, workshops, and round table sessions.

City's 2024 Street Improvement Project locations:

• Centre St., complete South end at 2nd Ave.

• Fairview Reservoir, surface improvements.

• 2nd Ave., complete full rebuild from 3rd St. E. to A to Zed.

• Veiner Rd., rebuild from Young Rd. to the new section.

• 6th St. E., complete North end at Sutherland Dr.

• Sutherland Dr., walking trail from Cassils to the new dog park.

• Water Main Replacement, replace the steel water main from 2nd St. W. to Alberta St.

One tender was received by Brooks Asphalt and Aggregate Ltd. for just over $2,500,000.

Off-leash area at the old Rodeo Grounds will be closed and bleachers removed with the completion of the new dog park located north of Harwood Ford.

Salt Flats Solar Farm - PACE Canada asked City Council to consider sending a letter of support to the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). Council decided to send a letter to PACE Canada to advise them that they are pleased with the steps taken to enhance the proposed development/neighbourhood. A letter of support to the AUC will be considered once a new application is submitted by PACE. The AUC withdrew PACE’s application.

Brooks Music Festival AGM - June 18, 7:30PM at the Alliance Church Outback Building, Everyone is welcome !

A Travel Alberta Discovery Report found Albertans are most likely to enjoy these Activities in the Canadian Badlands.

• 31% - Dinosaur Tourism

• 26% - Hiking

• 24% - Camping

• 24% - Cabins

• 17% - Museum & Heritage sites

• 15% - Farmers’ Market

• 13% - Breweries & Distilleries

• 13% - Canyon Adventure

• 11% - Water Recreation Activities

• 11% - Cultural Festivals

Memory Care Walking Group for those with dementia & their care partners. Every Wednesday 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Evergreen Park. A fun way to get some steps in and meet new people! Walk laps for 30 mins, then finish with a visit - refreshments provided. 6-Week Program, $20/person, care partners free. To register call 780-220-2877

Good Grief: Nature Walking A 4-week series of safe, gentle group walks in Dinosaur Provincial Park for 2 hours on Friday evenings. Walk with others walking through grief and loss. Registration fee: $15 cash paid at the first session. Proceeds to support the program and Prairie Rose Hospice. Spring Session starts June 7. For more info and to register email dinosaurpp@gov.ab.ca.

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