The Calgary Stampede strives to be green all year long, by instituting several environmental policies including a commitment to recycling and land and water conservation. However, while these measures are ongoing during the 355 days a year the actual Stampede is not taking place, the 10-day festivities also feature some earth-friendly measures.

As we mentioned last week, the Alberta SPCA and Calgary Humane Society are onsite during all rodeo events to ensure the animals are treated properly. The animals are also moved in the evenings so they are a safe distance from the nightly fireworks display, as the noise can be distressing to them. And as re-purposing material is a significant goal of Stampede organizers, the bedding waste from the livestock is turned into garden fertilizer by a local company.

Besides the rodeo and chuckwagon events, rides are another popular attraction at the Stampede. North American Midway Entertainment, the company that provides the rides, is currently working on making their own operations are earth-conscious as possible. Soy biofuels are used to power the Midway whenever possible. The lights on rides are also kept off from down until dusk to conserve erngy, and several of these lights have even been replaced with LEDs, an initiative that is expected to continue.

The improtance of recycling is not just emphasized to Stampede employees with their extensive on-site recycling program, but is also promoted and encouraged among visitors to the Stampede grounds. Recycling wagons and receptacles are set up sporadically through the grounds, allowing guests to avoid using the garbage can when possible. The Stampede is part of a new, pilot recycling program which allows for recyclable materials to be commingled. All materials must be put in clear plastic bags, but sorting is no longer required. Hired sweepers, as well as volunteers from local clubs collect these bags of recyclables and take them to local recycling centres for processing. In fact, the company that is handling the Stampede's recycling is the same one that is running the city of Calgary's new recyclingi program. Additionally, plush toy recycling centres are set up on the Midway to encourage patrons to find a new home for any unwanted toys they win while playing games. The response to this initiative was so overwhelming in 2008 that another one was established this year.

And for those skeptics who believe events such as this only serve as a cash-grab for the organizations that plan them may be surprised to learn the Calgary Stampede organization is just that: a non-profit organization that puts any money made from the event back into the community, such as agriculture and music programs.

To learn more about the Stampede, including how you can buy tickets or plan to attend in upcoming years, hit the jump to visit the official website!

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