1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how Buckshot Foundation Solutions ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website www.buckshotfs.com. This policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy.
By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy, unless you have adjusted your browser settings to refuse cookies.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, smartphone) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, provide basic functionality, and give website owners information about how visitors interact with their site.
Cookies can be:
- Session cookies – Temporary cookies that are deleted when you close your browser.
- Persistent cookies – Remain on your device for a set period of time or until you manually delete them.
- First-party cookies – Set by the website you are visiting.
- Third-party cookies – Set by a different domain, typically used for advertising or analytics.
3. Cookies We Use
3.1 Necessary (Essential) Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled without affecting the site's functionality. They are usually only set in response to actions you take, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in, or filling out forms.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| buckshot_cookie_consent | Stores your cookie consent preferences (GDPR compliance) | 365 days | First-party |
| buckshot_gtm_loaded | Prevents GTM from loading multiple times | Session | First-party |
3.2 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously. This data is used to improve our site and user experience.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics — Distinguishes users and calculates visitor/session data | 2 years | First-party |
| _gid | Google Analytics — Registers a unique ID for a returning user | 24 hours | First-party |
| _gat | Google Analytics — Used to throttle request rate | 1 minute | First-party |
3.3 Marketing/Advertising Cookies
These cookies are used to track visitors across websites to display relevant advertisements. They are set by Google Tag Manager and Google Ads.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| NID | Google — Stores preferences and information for Google services | 6 months | Third-party |
| IDE | Google advertising — Used for advertising targeting | 1 year | Third-party |
| __gads | Google advertising — Tracks ad clicks | 2 years | First-party |
| __gac_ | Google advertising — Stores ad campaign information | 90 days | First-party |
4. How We Use Google Tag Manager and Google Analytics
We use Google Tag Manager (GTM) to manage and deploy tracking codes and marketing tags on our website. GTM does not set cookies itself but is used to load tags that may set cookies, including:
- Google Analytics — Collects anonymized data about website usage (pages visited, time on site, device information, geographic location at country/city level) to understand user behavior and improve content.
- Google Ads Conversion Tracking — Tracks ad clicks and conversions (if advertising campaigns are active).
All analytics and advertising cookies are disabled by default. We only load these cookies if you explicitly consent by clicking "Accept All" or enabling specific categories in the cookie settings. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the "Cookie Settings" button in the footer or using your browser settings.
5. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You have full control over cookies. You can:
5.1 Using Our Cookie Settings
Click the "Cookie Settings" button (floating in the bottom-right corner after you've made a choice, or via the banner/modal) to access the cookie preference panel. There you can:
- Enable or disable analytics cookies
- Enable or disable marketing cookies
- Reject all non-essential cookies
- Accept all cookies
Your preferences are stored locally in your browser and will be remembered for 365 days. If you clear your browser storage or use a different device/browser, you will be prompted again.
5.2 Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to view, manage, and block cookies. However, blocking necessary cookies may cause the website to malfunction. Here are links to cookie management instructions for popular browsers:
5.3 Opt-Out of Google Analytics
You can install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on to prevent analytics data from being collected and used by Google Analytics in any website, regardless of your cookie consent on this site.
6. Data Retention
Google Analytics retains user data for 26 months by default, after which it is automatically deleted. You can request deletion of your data earlier by contacting Google. For advertising cookies, data retention periods vary (typically up to 2 years). See Google's data retention policies for details.
7. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to external websites (e.g., our social media profiles, service pages). We are not responsible for the privacy practices or cookie policies of these third-party sites. We encourage you to review their policies before providing any personal information.
8. Updates to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulations, or our practices. The "Last updated" date will be modified accordingly. Continued use of our website after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about our cookie practices or this policy, please contact us:
Buckshot Foundation Solutions
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Email: info@buckshotfs.com
Phone: (403) 703-7054