Alberta announces water-sharing negotiations

For the first time since 2001, the Government of Alberta has authorized the Drought Command Team to begin negotiations with major water license holders in southern Alberta river basins. The hope is to complete at least one water-sharing agreement for each of the Red Deer River, Box River, and Oldman River basins. The water-sharing agreements will be entered voluntarily and are expected to be completed before March 32.

“This effort will be the largest water-sharing negotiation to have ever occurred in Alberta’s history,” said Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, Rebecca Schulz. “I want to thank licence holders for coming to the table – your generosity, ingenuity and parti­cipation in this effort reflects the very best of our province.”

On January 31, Minister Schulz sent an open letter to elected municipal leaders providing background on the action, and asking they monitor water supply, review the terms of their water licenses, alert municipal water managers to be prepared, and develop a water shortage plan.

For the beef industry, these conversations are crucial.

“This is a complex and critical conversation, and Alberta Beef Producers is prepared to collaborate with our neighbours and colleagues across the province as we explore a path forward,” says Brad Dubeau, General Manager of Alberta Beef Producers.

“Drought is something our farmers and ranchers have experienced before,” says Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson. “Based on that experience, our irrigators and agricultural producers have done an amazing job to manage their operations during tough times. I also want to be clear, that Alberta producers are leaders in water conservation, environmental stewardship, and I am proud of the work they do.”

All Albertans – including farmers, water license holders, and municipalities – can stay up to date on the latest developments by visiting the Government of Alberta’s Drought website.