Alberta’s government is exploring opportunities to make more water available by updating the Water Act - and wants to hear from you.
Demand for water is rising, and Alberta is looking at ways to make more water available for farmers, ranchers, businesses and growing communities.
The Water Act has not been updated in 25 years and with more families, agri-businesses, food processing plants and many others coming to Alberta, it is important that the system makes every drop count.
The government recently heard from over a 1000 Albertans who suggested improvements that could potentially help make the system stronger.
Alberta’s government is now seeking public feedback on some of the targeted changes put forward by Albertans to maximize the water supply and make more water available to those who need it.
“We need to ensure we have the water we need for people, our environment and our major industries for today, tomorrow and for generations to come,” said Rebecca Schulz, minister of environment and protected areas.
“Albertans have given us clear feedback on the Water Act, that it can and should be reviewed, and suggested specific updates for further discussion. We know there are many different views and perspectives, and we’re grateful for the participation and engagement to help us get this right.”
Having heard from Albertans directly, the government is seeking feedback on some of the most raised, or practical, changes that were proposed. The updates could:
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Streamline regulatory decisions on licence amendments and transfers.
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Enhance water use information to support licence and transfer decisions.
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Enable lower-risk inter-basin transfers where it is safe and appropriate to do so.
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Enable management of alternative water sources, such as rainwater, stormwater and wastewater reuse.
Albertans can provide feedback on the specific proposals until June 30.
There will also be targeted in-person sessions across the province with Indigenous communities and water using sectors in May.
No decisions have been made, and the government will review all the feedback before determining what changes, if any, move forward.
For more information and to take the survey you can visit the Alberta website.
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