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Headlines: July 1, 2026

· The Pulse
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  • Edmonton's new requirements for pigeon owners will take effect in January. Licensed owners must join a pigeon association and tag each pigeon with an identifying leg band, to distinguish domesticated birds from wild ones. Edmonton has 94 licensed pigeon keepers, with strict rules for lofts and pigeon flights, including limits on the number of birds allowed outside simultaneously. The new rules aim to streamline identification and handling of stray pigeons, aligning with practices in other major Canadian cities.
  • Due to increased water levels and a provincial High Streamflow Advisory, the City of Edmonton has closed several low-lying trails and river access points along the North Saskatchewan River. The closures affect the Highlands-Dawson, Capilano-Gold Bar, and Emily Murphy-Kinsmen trails, and the loop near Fort Edmonton Park. Mill Creek trails are also closed at Jackie Parker Park and the Minchau area. Residents are advised to avoid the water, keep pets away from the river, and refrain from using watercraft due to strong currents and debris.
  • Alberta's recent heavy rainfall has increased the region's mosquito population, prompting warnings about the heightened risk of West Nile virus. Edmonton recorded more than 200 millimetres of rain in June. Primary Care Alberta advises covering skin with long sleeves, light colours, and using Health Canada-approved repellents containing DEET or icaridin to mitigate risks.
  • The City of Edmonton removed a Facebook post promoting its civic youth fellowship due to racist comments. Mayor Andrew Knack condemned the remarks. "Those folks who said those vile things, this is not the city for them," he said. The City has provided mental health support to affected interns and will host a showcase in July recognizing the achievements of 20 youth in its workforce.
  • K-Days has unveiled a unique food lineup for 2026, featuring creative options such as donut poutines and Area 51 taco burgers. The festival runs from July 17 to 26 at the Edmonton EXPO Centre and Exhibition Grounds.
  • Hundreds of Alberta students may lose free access to schooling as their families' immigration status remains uncertain. Nearly 46,000 students with temporary status face study permit expirations, which end their enrolment eligibility. Edmonton Public Schools said 500 students are at risk, while the Edmonton Catholic School Division has 1,493 students with expired documentation. Alberta's upcoming referendums could limit temporary residents' school access, raising concerns about future funding and student disenfranchisement.
  • A proposed class-action lawsuit alleges that about 2.9 million Alberta voters had their personal information unlawfully accessed and distributed, constituting one of the province's largest privacy breaches. Filed in Edmonton's Court of King's Bench by retired lawyer Clint Docken, the lawsuit names Alberta's justice and solicitor general, chief electoral officer, Centurion Project Ltd., the Republican Party of Alberta, and other defendants. The breach reportedly exposed voter data meant for internal use, leading to risks of identity theft. The lawsuit is pending certification, while the RCMP and privacy commissioner investigate.