Blood Tribe Recreation & Parks staff are asking the community to stop illegal dumping at Red Crow Park in Standoff, Alberta, as they prepare for the upcoming Kainai Powwow & Celebration. In a public notice issued July 2, 2026, officials highlighted the need to keep the park safe and clean for the major annual event, which runs July 14-20 and draws hundreds of participants from across North America.
“We would like to remind the community we are preparing the park for Kainai Powwow & Celebration and want to keep our parks safe and clean all year round,” the department said in the notice. The problem is far from new: Blood Tribe Public Works reported a spike in illegal dumping in late 2024, warning that it contaminates groundwater and harms local birds and animals. Officials say illegal dumping violates Blood Tribe by-laws, as well as provincial and federal laws, and creates a financial burden for the Nation.
To avoid dumping, residents are reminded they can bring waste to the Standoff Waste Transfer Station, open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thanks to an agreement with Chief Mountain Waste Management, Blood Tribe members can also use transfer stations in Cardston, Spring Coulee, and Hill Spring/Glenwood.
The plea for clean parks comes after a successful community clean-up in May 2026, when more than 30 truck-and-trailer loads of spring waste were hauled away from Standoff. Still, the Blood Tribe Police Service has seen ongoing issues. In January 2026, they issued their own warning about increased dumping at the Standoff site and asked anyone who spots illegal activity to call (403) 737-3800.
The Kainai Powwow & Celebration begins July 14 at Red Crow Park. The event will feature dancers, singers, rodeo competitions, and family gatherings.
