🚫 What We’re Asking For

We, the undersigned residents of Okotoks, are calling on the Town to immediately stop all use of glyphosate and other toxic herbicides in our parks, green spaces, nature preserves, and public areas—not just for cosmetic purposes, but entirely.

⚠️ The Danger of Glyphosate

Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the World Health Organization. It does not simply disappear after 24 hours—it lingers in soil, contaminates water systems, and has been detected in rainwater, household dust, food, and human urine, raising serious concerns about long-term exposure and environmental impact.

🌍 Global Action Has Already Begun

Over 20 countries have already banned or heavily restricted glyphosate, recognizing its risks to public health, wildlife, and ecosystems. It’s time for Okotoks to join this global shift toward safer, more sustainable practices.

🐝 Our Bee City Commitment Is at Risk

As a designated Bee City, Okotoks has made a public commitment to protect pollinators. Yet glyphosate directly threatens bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinators by eliminating their food sources—such as dandelions—and contaminating their habitats. Continuing to spray this chemical undermines both environmental responsibility and public trust.

✅ Alternatives Exist—And They Work

We recognize the Town has legal obligations under Alberta’s Weed Control Act to manage certain noxious weeds. However, there are viable, non-toxic alternatives that are already being used successfully in other municipalities across Canada, including:

Vinegar-based herbicides

Boiling water and steam treatments

Manual removal and mulching

Flame or thermal weeders

Low-maintenance native landscaping

These methods can be implemented thoughtfully and strategically, allowing the Town to meet its obligations without relying on chemicals that pose unnecessary risks to our health and environment.

📣 Our Official Requests

We urge the Town of Okotoks to:

1. Immediately end all use of glyphosate and similarly toxic herbicides in public spaces, not just for cosmetic weed control

2. Implement and prioritize non-toxic, sustainable alternatives for all weed management practices

3. Honor its Bee City and sustainability commitments by protecting pollinator habitats, soil health, and water quality

4. Respect the voice of its residents by supporting this community-led petition for change

🌱 The Future We Deserve

We deserve public spaces that are genuinely safe—for our children, our pets, our pollinators, and the generations to come. Let’s lead the way and make Okotoks a model of sustainability, safety, and environmental integrity.