What is the difference between EALT and other organizations?

EALT is a registered charity, meaning that it operates solely for public benefit and can issue tax receipts. In addition, EALT is registered with Environment Canada’s Ecological Gifts program, which enables additional tax benefits to donors.

EALT is the only conservation organization operating with the primary focus of securing and stewarding natural areas in the Edmonton region. We are also a non-advocacy organization.

We support many conservation and stewardship activities offered by other organizations, what distinguishes EALT is our focus on long-term commitments to conservation (called “securement”). This means that conserved lands remain conserved and will not potentially be at risk when a good steward transfers the property to a new owner.

How does EALT decide which lands to protect?

Our Regional Conservation Plan identifies the important types of natural areas and features to protect, as well as other criteria to decide whether a project is worthwhile. This information is based on input from local people, research and experience.

For land that landowners themselves bring forward, we gather information to determine whether the site is important, whether we are the right partner, and what approach makes sense to everyone involved.

What will EALT do with the lands it secures?

For lands where EALT becomes the owner, we develop a Conservation Management Plan to guide our future use. Our main interest is to conserve the important features and values of the property while also allowing compatible uses. Most of the lands we own are open to the public for low-impact activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and nature photography.

For conservation easements, the landowner still owns and decides what to do with the property, within the terms of the agreement, and EALT arranges to monitor the land by prior consent of the landowner.

Read more information about the process of securement in our Planning Your Conservation Legacy Guide.

How do I determine if my property is ecologically significant?

To qualify for an Ecological Gifts Program donation, an Environment Canada staff member must visit the property to make a final determination. EALT can also assist you in determining whether your site has important natural heritage features.