Annual Taber pheasant festival draws hundreds

The Taber Pheasant Festival is quickly turning into one of the biggest annual event in the town, drawing in hundreds of hunters from across Canada.

It’s the fourth year Taber has hosted the unique event, and for newcomer Laurie Kennedy, the week-long excursion is the perfect way for her to say ‘Namaste’.

“This would be like my yoga” she said with a chuckle.

Kennedy is one of 600 hunters taking part in this year’s event, and while it might seem ironic, the main goal of the festival is to increase awareness of habitat conservation issues. President of the Alberta Conservation Association Todd Zimmerling, hopes to correct any misinformed views about the event.

“People right away say well you’re killing birds, how is that conservation?  Well, what we’re trying to do is impress upon people what hunting used to be like in this area and the benefits of having hunting around. They start thinking ‘Well, I want to have pheasants around on my property, how do I do that?  Well, I have to improve my habitat and if we’re doing that we’re getting better conservation across the landscape.’”

The event has grown in popularity since it began in 2010, hitting its peak this year with all spots having been booked in just nine minutes.  The economic impact is huge, as the town expects an influx of $300,000.  Mayor Henk Devilieger is already seeing that impact.

“I know all the hotels are booked full, we have hunting stores in town, I’m sure they are all stocked up and selling lots of stuff. There is a lot of activity taking place and that brings a lot of money into town.”

For Kennedy and her hunting dog Becky, they’re also enjoying the chance to take in different parts of the province.

“Realizing the beauty of the prairies is absolutely beautiful.”

The festival wraps up on October 25^th.