The Village of Empress

is nestled between the Red Deer River and the South Saskatchewan River, at the eastern edge of Alberta. There is a wild feel to this quaint village surrounded by expansive farms and ranches, pronghorns, coyotes and so many different species of birds. The recreation opportunities for adventurers and star-gazers are boundless. Come and see for yourself!

Announcements

Please Slow Down

Posted on August 9, 2023 under: Announcements

Please slow down in and around the Village and do not zip through street sections.  Slow down as you enter and drive around the Village and please always respect the traffic signage at ALL times.  Thank you.
 
 
 
 
 

Announcements

Dogs

Posted on August 9, 2023 under: Announcements

Please always have your dog(s) on a leash when they are off your property and in public spaces and do clean up after your pets, please.  Please keep your dogs quiet and address and limit excessive barking especially during quiet hours.  Thank you.
 
 
 
 
 

Announcements

Noxious & invasive weed: Common Baby’s Breathe

Posted on July 26, 2023 under: Announcements

Noxious & invasive weed: Common Baby’s Breathe (Gypsophila paniculata)

DO NOT HAY THIS PLANT!  IF YOU SEE THIS SPECIES IN DITCHES OR HAY FIELDS, GO AROUND!!!!

Most people are familiar with this ornamental plant, particularly in flower arrangements.  What most people don’t know is that in 2010 it was listed as a NOXIOUS Weed in the Weed Control Act.  This means it MUST BE CONTROLLED.

This perennial reproduces by seed only (1000’s per plant) but spreads easily through its tumbleweed nature. Commonly found in hay fields surrounding old homesteads and cemeteries, this noxious weed is a moisture thief with its enormous tap root often extending 4 metres.  It competes very well against hay crops and can rob crops of precious moisture, particularly in drought years.

The first step in battling Baby’s Breathe is to prevent seed set.  Mowing prior to seed set (BEFORE you see those white flowers), combined with a selective herbicide will be your best chance at controlling the population long term.  Also, physically damaging the root (by chopping), down to at least 3 inches is a good idea.  Pulling the entire root is near impossible because it can be up to 4 metres deep!  Because of this deep taproot, fall is an excellent time to apply herbicide to translocate deep into the root system.  You must be very diligent not to let the plant flower before then though!  This weed is common all over the Special Areas, so scout your hay fields often and carefully.

For more information on Baby’s Breathe, go to Alberta Invasive Species Council Fact Sheet on Baby’s Breath.
 

Announcements

Video of Special Meeting on 2022-May-26

Posted on May 29, 2022 under: Announcements

The Special Meeting that was held on Thursday, May 26, 2022 was done via Zoom and was recorded.  It was basically our Official Administrator Harold Johnsrude getting a few things done.  To see that 7 minute meeting, view it on YouTube.

 

Copyright © 2026. Village of Empress.
Hosted by Gaslamp Village Media Inc.
(Medicine Hat)