Temporary livestock water assistance announced for Alberta producers

Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (EPA) is offering temporary livestock water assistance for producers facing water shortages due to drought conditions.

This program is available to any livestock and poultry producers in urgent need of water. If you require help to find an alternative water source, contact your EPA district office or call the Water Pumping Program at 780-422-5000.  

To apply for temporary livestock water assistance, follow these steps from the Province:

Step 1: Producers in need of support should email their EPA district office and include these details:

• ‘Livestock Water Assistance’ in the subject line of the email.
• The legal land location(s) of your livestock.
• Number of animals.
• If you currently have a Water Licence under the Water Act, and the licence number(s).
• Suggested options for water source (if known).
• Phone number or alternative contact information.

Step 2: Within three business days, an EPA staff member will contact the producer directly to discuss their specific situation.

Step 3: EPA staff and producer will work together to identify and assess alternative water sources, and potential impacts to the aquatic environment and other water users.

Step 4: Where required, EPA will work with the producer through a streamlined authorization process under the Water Act to authorize temporary use of the new water source.

Step 5: Once the producer has received their authorization, such as a Temporary Diversion Licence, they can begin using the new water source.

Alberta Beef Producers would like to acknowledge Minister Rebecca Schulz, Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, for taking quick action on this issue.

Find full program details