Nanton (Rural Roots Canada) – In the foothills of Alberta’s cowboy country, a conservation story is once again taking shape, one rooted in partnership, stewardship, and a deep respect for the land.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and the Waldron Grazing Co-operative are teaming up to conserve Bob Creek Ranch, a historic property nestled just off the iconic Cowboy Trail. Spanning more than 1,000 hectares (over 2,400 acres), the ranch is more than a scenic stretch of native grassland — it’s a keystone piece in one of Alberta’s most significant conservation efforts.

In a statement, Larry Simpson, Director of Strategic Philanthropy with NCC, says the significance of Bob Creek Ranch goes beyond its size; it fills one of the last remaining gaps in a vast network of conserved working lands across this iconic and mostly intact landscape.

“This is a chance for people to make a difference by helping to conserve an incredible part of Canada that inspires anyone who experiences it,” says Simpson.

This isn’t the first time these two partners have come together. The relationship between NCC and the Waldron Grazing Co-operative stretches back more than a decade, beginning with the landmark conservation of the 13,000-hectare Waldron Ranch in 2013 and expanding in 2015 with the neighbouring King Ranch. Now, with Bob Creek Ranch, they’re working to complete a vision that links over 43,000 hectares (100,000 acres) of protected land in the headwaters of the South Saskatchewan River watershed.

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It’s a vision that supports more than wildlife. According to the NCC, native grasslands are among the most endangered ecosystems on the planet and some of the most important. They filter water, guard against floods and drought, and quietly store billions of tonnes of carbon. Conserving this land helps secure critical habitat for elk, deer, and grizzly bears, while continuing to support the ranching families who live and work on it.

The Waldron Grazing Co-operative, comprising nearly 80 ranching families, manages the land as part of a sustainable grazing operation.  Together with NCC, they are showing that protecting Alberta’s working landscapes doesn’t mean shutting them down; it means keeping them healthy, productive, and resilient for generations to come.

“This conservation project marks the next chapter in a made-in-Alberta success story one built on collaboration between ranchers and conservationists,” says Simpson. “It’s a powerful example of what people can achieve together with a shared vision.”

For more on this project and how to get involved, visit natureconservancy.ca.