Introduction

The Cypress Hills span the border between southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan.

"The Cypress Hills is a special place," says the Cypress Hills Fringe Area Structure Plan (2003). "It stands as an oasis 300 meters above the surrounding grasslands. For thousands of years it has contained a rich history and shelter for humans and wildlife."

The slopes and green coulees surrounding Cypress Hills Provincial Park have also been home to families, ranchers and farmers for generations. Impressive views of relatively undisturbed landscape spread from the highest points looking to the north. To the south, the gentle slopes give way to the Sweetgrass Hills in the distance.

Status:

The highest part of the Cypress plateau has been protected as the Cypress Hills Inter-provincial Park.

A 278 km² buffer area around the park in Alberta has been designated as the Fringe and Cypress County prepared an Area Structure Plan for it in 2003. The goal of the ASP is: "To provide an opportunity for development in the Cypress Fringe plan area in a manner that respects the values that created Cypress Hills Park and respects the heritage and ecological landscape of the area."

View to East and slightly North towards Saskatchewan - Cypress Hills - Photo Credit: Kevin Mihalcheon