What is the Alberta Township System? Alberta Township System is a land survey system used in Alberta to divide land into one square mile sections. It is based on the Dominion Land Survey (DLS) system that was implemented elsewhere in western Canada in 1872. Before, it was used to define land for agriculture purposes, but the 1910 Alberta Surveyors Act was put into place to make sure the direction of the surveys were handled provincially. As a result, Alberta’s unique system has a completely different method for marking out the land compared to systems used in other areas of western Canada (for example, British Columbia). In western Canada, the government regulates oil and gas naming by assigning unique well identifiers (UWID) to each drill hole. However, the nomenclature is based on the Alberta Township System for wells in Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the peaceful country in north-western British Columbia. Now,the system is used for land leases, sales, and hydrocarbon exploration rights,since it references oil and gas wells. Most areas of the Alberta Township grid were added in the third survey (conducted in 1881). It was later changed in 1963, when the province decided to increase the width of road allowances, and continues to change as approximately two new townships are added each year. Understanding the Alberta Township System The first Meridian is defined at 97° west; the second Meridian overlays the 102° west longitude, the third Meridian at 106° degree west, the fourth at 100° west, the fifth Meridian at 114° west, the sixth Meridian at 118° degree west. All the locations are specified as west of Meridian. Under the Alberta Township System, the land is designated as west of the 4th, 5th, and 6th Meridian, 110°, 114°, and 118° west longitude. Ranges: Ranges are the six-mile columns between meridians. They’re numbered consecutively from east to west, starting at Range 1 west of each Meridian. Townships: The townships are six-mile rows that intersect ranges. They are numbered consecutively from township 1 at the Montana border to Township 126 at the Northwest Territories border. The word township describes the six by six-mile square formed by the intersection of ranges and townships. Township lines: Township lines are east-west lines parallel to latitude lines. Numbering starts from the first baseline, which is located at latitude 49º north. Section: A Section is a subdivision of Townships. Townships are divided into 36 sections. Each section is measuring one by one mile. A section can as well divide into quarters or 16 legal division. However, from north to south, each section measures one mile. A section can measure less or more than one mile from east to west, depending on its vastness. A selection is precisely six miles wide along a baseline. It is less than six miles north of the baseline and south of a correction line, more than six miles wide south of a baseline and north of a correction line. However, sections are less than six miles wide if they’re directly east of Meridian. Legal Sub-divisions (LSD’s) are defined within a section. A section is divided into 16 LSD’s. LSD’s are approximately ¼ by ¼ miles in area (about 400 by 400 meters, or 40 acres). _____________________________ 1 https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-township-survey-system.aspx 2 http://sppi.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Understanding-Western-Canadas-Dominion-Land-Survey-System.pdf
Eminent Domain Expropriation legislation (the term used in Canada) is eminent domain. Eminent domain is where the government can seize property if it determines that the land is needful for expanding a roadway or whatever else it needs at any given time. For this reason, expropriation legislation or eminent domain has become an increasingly alarming concept especially to those who have experienced the taking of their property to satisfy a government need. The Right to Own Property Eminent domain is where the government can acquire your private-owned land if it deems it necessary to fulfill road construction or upkeep or any other circumstance applicable by law. By definition, any individual or entity that owns land, doesn’t really own the land per se. For example, private land proprietors in Canada who have purchased land, by definition, does not own the land; the Crown does. Not only is it owned by the Crown, but the administration is also responsible for the upkeep. Private land proprietors are not proprietors by any stretch of the imagination; they are unpretentious inhabitants. Indeed, even in nations where private land proprietorship seems standard, this is a misconception since governments despite everything, have the option to seize land. Property ownership should be an option for all people to possess property, including land. They should also have the complete authorization to make use of it in the way they determine as long as they do not do damage to other people’s property. This idea of possession makes the best impetus for people to obtain and utilize the property to develop their own success, and as such, consistently builds the success of others. Based on research studies, Studies indicate that free business sectors yield greater expectations for everyday living; however, it should be noted that free enterprise is supported by property rights. Conclusion Although eminent domain (i.e. expropriation legislation) has been practiced in Canada for many years, Canada has also been known to fully compensate those who have had their property seized. Proprietors are eligible for reimbursement for all forfeitures within reason. The recompense includes an estimation of the property confiscated, as well as any business losses. The overall design is to ensure that a proprietor is given enough compensation that positions them in or as near as possible to their beginning state. In other words, they will not be in a more dire position.
Squatter’s Rights in Alberta In 1999, Robert Woodard of Southern Alberta bought ranch land in the Cardston region. Like any responsible landowner, he paid his taxes and didn’t imagine that 15 years later, he’d lose possession of 10 acres of his own land after a neighbor laid claim to it under Alberta’s highly unpopular adverse possession law. This law has often been referred to as squatter’s rights. Woodard is one of many examples of the legal struggles landowners have with so-called “squatter’s rights” legislation, which is part of Alberta’s Common Law. According to the law, anyone who has occupied a strip of another person’s land (known as the occupier) for at least 10 years can potentially claim ownership of that land from the registered landowner. Most of the time, adverse possession can be something as simple as a fence being built in the wrong place and the registered landowner not discovering it until after the 10-year deadline passed. Other times, it could be something like the continuous use of a private road or growing food on another landowner’s unused land. In all cases, the occupier must have been conspicuously and continuously using that parcel of land. As of 2019… Alberta’s current United Conservative Party government is seeking to end the days of adverse possession and squatter’s rights at the recommendation of the Alberta Law Reform Institute. The institute’s preliminary report suggests that a better alternative to the problematic law could be Section 69 of the Law of Property Act, which would offer a more fair and balanced approach to settling adverse possession disputes. It would also ensure that “property pirates” don’t get away with intentionally taking land that isn’t theirs to claim. With Section 69 used as legislation and adverse possession being revoked, the trespasser would have to prove that he or she made lasting improvements to the property, thinking it to be their land. This has to be more than a fence—it needs to be a building or house. Essentially, such legislation would put an end to squatter’s rights in Alberta. It would also ensure that the registered landowner could reclaim possession of the land at any time, even beyond the 10-year limitation that is currently in effect with adverse possession rules. It is important to note that such changes would prevent new claims from being brought in the future under adverse possession, but would not affect claims that had already been processed before the new legislation passed. The property that has been lost under adverse possession legislation will not be returned to its former owner but will be chalked up as a lesson learned. At Hansen Land Brokers… Land is our passion, and we think it’s important to keep our clients posted on any legislative change that could affect their land ownership situation. We have worked with many farm and ranch families in Alberta and in the Eastern Rocky Mountains, and have earned their respect as being a resource for finding the best deals on Alberta land-based assets. Whether you are buying land, selling land, or researching your rights as a landowner, reach out to us.
Easter is nearly upon us, and with that comes celebration and delicious food! It’s important to think of our local businesses and farms in Alberta when deciding on holiday meals and treats this year, and supporting local is something we at Hansen Land Co take pride in. We want to share with you a few tidbits on why we believe shopping local not only benefits Alberta as a whole, but says a whole lot about how we support each other within the agricultural community and farm lands. When shopping for that several dozen eggs you and the kids are planning to decorate this Easter, consider purchasing from an Alberta egg farmer rather than from the big corporate stores. It’s such an easy decision when you know that the product is homegrown and fresh from the farm. If you’re confused as to where to start looking for nearby egg farmers, well, it’s as easy as looking through this website for more information on farm lands. Though Alberta is world-renowned for our delicious beef, we also take pride in raising other animals with the same quality care on our farms. If pork is what’s on the menu this Easter, it’s not hard to find local pork producers you can trust on farm lands. When deciding how to prepare your pork, take a peek here to learn where you can find it locally produced. You can also search for incredible recipes to wow your family over the dinner table. However you decide to celebrate Easter with your loved ones this year, do consider supporting local farmers and ranchers in Alberta. Albertans know that the best way to take care of each other is to support one another. If our loyalty lies in our locals and farms, the benefits of buying back into our fellow Albertans only continue to multiply growth and prosperity within our farming community and our families. When shopping for your tasty recipes, visit local farmers’ markets, and do your research when it comes to where to buy local food from farms in Alberta. Easter is about bringing the family together, so let’s put families first in Alberta this Easter.
When we seek advice about something we aren’t familiar with, we look to an expert. You wouldn’t hire someone under-qualified to repair your car or home so why would you hire someone without expertise and experience when it comes to buying or selling land? Working with an expert saves time and costly mistakes and when you’re in the business of purchasing or selling land, there’s little wiggle room for error! Expert land brokers know what to look for when it comes to development, agricultural or transitional land investments when buying land. Here at Hansen Land Co., we strive to educate ourselves on the current markets and practices for land for sale in Alberta and we have years of hands-on experience to help you buy or sell your land-based investments! Our goal is to make the buying and selling process as secure and rewarding as possible. As land brokers, we consider it our duty to provide you with as much information as we can about the land in Alberta which you intend to purchase or sell. This means we take research on land for sale very seriously. We investigate well and water issues, soil types, and any other potential history. If any toxic goods have been introduced to the land, this directly affects the value, and buyers need to be made aware of environmental considerations before buying land. On top of learning the land itself, we make it our business to know the urban landscape and the influences from the advancement of surrounding areas on the land for sale. As the buyer, you need to be well informed about land for sale in Alberta in order to make the best decision for your future and this includes knowing how to market and advertise your parcel if you choose to resell. When you work with experienced land brokers who put your needs first, you know that you’re in good hands when buying or selling land. Hansen Land Co promises to provide you with the support and guidance you’ll need when you decide to buy land and own a piece of Alberta’s rich landscape!
As experts land brokers, we pride ourselves on having our finger on the pulse on land for sale and farms for sale opportunities in Alberta. When we advise our clients on buying land, we do so fueled by years of expertise – something that our company President is a testament to. You may not know that our very own Shawn Hansen, Associate Broker and President of Hansen Land Brokers is also a Board Member of Canada Asia Synergy Group(CASG). CASG is a team of industry, government, and academic leaders with extensive knowledge and expertise in international business. They continually meet with overseas investors seeking out partnership opportunities. Shawn’s personal mission is to find those who would like to invest in land-based assets here in Alberta. CASG helps identify foreign investment opportunities and address’ investor challenges. With its significant blend of expertise and strong business relationships, CASG manages a broad range of transactions across many sectors. Shawn visited China this past fall with other board members from CASG. He has developed an informative presentation for foreign investors on how they can purchase real estate here in Canada and works tirelessly in finding appropriate projects that can produce a win-win between local sellers and foreign buyers. This expertise is evident in our expertise in advising clients on farms for sale opportunities and the benefits of buying farm land for sale in Alberta. Contact us today if you are ready to team up with a land broker that will assist you in navigating the farm land for sale landscape in Alberta – buying land might just be the opportunity you have been looking for!
Last month, Hansen land brokers had the pleasure of participating in the RLI’s National Land Conference with other innovative and passionate land brokers, such as Monte Van Kooten, owner of the Sterling Land Company in Illinois. The annual National Land Conference is a can’t miss conference for land professionals and land brokers such as Hansen, who are serious about growing their business, more confidently assisting clients buying land, and closing more deals. NLC is the premier industry event for land real estate agents, land brokers and professionals to share ideas on buying land, see the latest innovations, and gain expertise to head back to their businesses with new inspiration for buying land. The conference, held from March 11-14 in Nashville, was a huge success, with a record number of attendees and partners showing up! Hansen land brokers are already heavily anticipating attending next year for the amazing learning experiences and the warm camaraderie from like-minded professionals and land brokers.
Are you interested in Alberta farms for sale? The debate about which industry is more advantageous to Alberta’s economic growth is, to no one’s surprise, a nose-to-nose race between oil and agriculture. Both are such prominent and iconic industries of Alberta, and each provide such different benefits to our global and domestic markets. But which market is Alberta currently moving towards, and how viable is buying farm land for sale in the area? Plus, how will it affect buyers’ decisions in investing in farms in Alberta? First, let’s look at both industries’ contributions. When it comes to production of these two trades, agri-food and agriculture provides 6.7% of GPD while oil and gas contributes 2.9% of our GPD with all energy, electricity included, clocking in at 7.5%. Agriculture currently sits at a higher percentage than auto manufacturing, which is something to say in and of itself considering how important the auto industry has been for our nation in past years! Canada sits in 5th place as the biggest exporter of agricultural products in the global market and accounts for 3.5% of the overall profit in agri-food and agricultural exportation worldwide. As well, 4% of global petroleum comes from us and we hold 6% of the entire petroleum market. Not only are we prominent in both industries on a global scale, but within our own country we put 70% of homegrown product in our shopping carts from family-owned farms. Family is a truly Canadian value, and 98% of our farms are family-owned and operated, meaning what we are putting on the table is directly benefiting our local farmers and farm lands. Employment in these industries is what makes them so important to our economic growth, and the oil and gas industry employs more than 400,000 workers with 190,000 of those employees working right in the thick of the oil and gas business. Agriculture in comparison employs 2.2 million people when including all aspects of the trade, with 305,000 working directly in the field. We’ve all heard or experienced firsthand the layoffs happening in such succession in oil and gas. Agriculture on the other hand is expected to be in need of 74,000 more workers by the year 2022. One of the loudest arguments is greenhouse gas emissions, with oil and gas responsible for 26%, and we know just how important it is to reduce the amount of emissions in our production of both these industries. Agriculture currently contributes at least 10% of total emissions, and Canadians are working hard at trying to reduce this number in both sectors. Adjustments in farming practices, such as the use of a biodiesel, have dramatically lowered the production of greenhouse gases in farm lands. It’s no surprise that oil and gas and agriculture are the backbone of Canada’s market. We are lucky that both the gas, oil, and agricultural industries benefit our domestic markets and that globally we are viewed as a hotspot for safe food and reliable fuel. It’s hard to say which industry is more important for , but it’s not hard to agree that Alberta and its farm lands are growing fast and moving towards a brighter future. This bodes well for farm land for sale too, and as your trusted land broker, we would be happy to assist you with information on farms in Alberta. Contact us today and let’s discuss how investing in farm lands for sale can be a worthwhile opportunity.
Interested in land for sale in Alberta? If the past five years have shown us anything, it’s that there has never been a better time to be a farmer in Canada, especially compared to the American market. We found this handy article published by Tom Eisenhauer, ICD.D, President & CEO at Bonnefield Financial Inc. that explains how agriculture in the USA has faltered, whereas Canadian farmers have flourished. Be sure to read the contents if you are interested in investing in farm land for sale – it could definitely assist you in making decisions for buying land in the foreseeable future: It is a testament to the attractiveness of farmland as an investment asset, that US farmland values have not declined significantly since 2013, despite big declines in farm incomes. Farmers, after all, don’t react to short-term commodity price swings by selling land that is the cornerstone of their long-term business…In Canada, however, steadily increasing farm incomes have led to steadily increasing farmland values since 2014, in line with long-term historic averages of 6% to 8% per year. This news bodes well for property owners looking for land for sale opportunities and those who are in the position to buy land to expand their property portfolio. Canadians farmland has consistently proven its value throughout the years. This makes investing in farm land for sale in areas such as Alberta all the more rewarding. Feel free to reach out to the Hansen team if you’re looking into farmland for sale or if you are interested in buying land or any other kind of property – we’re always happy to help with questions regarding land for sale!
2013 might have been a wild year for the value of Alberta farms for sale and buying land, but a new article from Alberta Farm Express shows that those values for farmland for sale have doubled in the past five years: How expensive is it to buy Alberta farmland? Try double what it was just five years ago. “Over the last five years, we’ve seen cash farm receipts going up across the country and especially in Alberta,” said Joel Bokenfohr, manager of business structures and financial policy with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry regarding Alberta farms for sale. “We have a strong farm economy where a farm’s investment decisions are now going into purchasing assets — land being the obvious choice. “That’s really driven up farm values.” We recommend that you take a look at the rest of the article here on farmland for sale in Alberta. What we see here not only tells us that farms have been doing great financially when it comes to buying land, but that the investment in Alberta farmland is bound to pay off.
