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Introduction
The Farmers’ Advocate Office (FAO) is a resource for farmers and ranchers who are affected by energy and utility developments. Our office staff can assist landowners with managing their land assets, mitigating business risk and maximizing future economic opportunity in relation to surface rights. The FAO works with industry, regulators and government to ensure landowner concerns are addressed through dispute resolution support, Land and Property Rights Tribunal processes (formerly Surface Rights Board) and other avenues.
The FAO is also a strong leader in highlighting policy issues related to energy and utility developments and surface rights, and advocating for change on behalf of rural landowners. Contact our policy specialist for advice on legislation, policy, and landowner rights and responsibilities.
How it works
Find the information you need on the focus topics below or contact us directly with your questions or concerns. We can provide more information, facilitate interactions, directly intervene or advocate on your behalf. For all other inquiries, contact 310-FARM.
In focus
Information related to energy and utility developments, the lifecycle of their operations and their regulation.
Information related to compensation from energy companies, as well as bankruptcy and insolvency issues.
Information related to freehold mineral interests in Alberta.
Information related to renewable energy interactions on private and leased lands.
Rural utilities
Rural gas, electricity and water distribution infrastructure provides essential services throughout the province. The FAO can help producers understand their surface rights related to access (easements and utility rights-of-way), and to explore potential avenues for the resolution of disputes or conflicts.
Agricultural producers and rural residents often have questions about utilities on their property. The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) has developed helpful resources related to rural utilities, including:
- tips and information on farm demand charges
- understanding your utility bill
- Rural Electrification Associations (REA) and natural gas co-ops
In conjunction with the FAO, the UCA expanded its frequently asked questions page. These and other resources for agricultural producers can be found on their website.
Synergy groups
Synergy Alberta is a non-profit provincial umbrella organization established in 2006 to provide ongoing support for synergy groups and synergy initiatives in Alberta. Synergy groups are community-based, multi-stakeholder groups that meet regularly and work collaboratively to positively address resource development issues in their local regions.
The FAO collaborates with synergy groups and other surface rights groups to support their efforts. Their meetings provide a respectful venue for landowners and operators to meet to solve common issues. These forums also provide an opportunity for the FAO to gain information from landowners on issues as they arise and for amplifying FAO information and advocacy efforts in the province.
Contact
Connect with the FAO:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Toll free: 310-FARM (3276) (in Alberta)
Phone: 403-742-7901 (outside Alberta)
Email: [email protected] or Ask us a question online
View all FAO contact information
Mailing address:
J.G. O'Donoghue Building
7000 113 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
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Farmers’ Advocate Office