Alberta government commits funding to the Water Management Program

The Alberta government has announced an investment of $50 million over the next three years to the province’s Water Management Program.

The move aims to enhance Alberta’s water management infrastructure, which is vital for irrigation, municipal, industrial, agricultural, and recreational use, as well as for fish and wildlife habitat, flood mitigation, and erosion protection.

A significant portion of the funds will be directed towards the Dickson Dam Spillway Enhancements. The dam, constructed in 1983, plays a role in ensuring an adequate water supply for Red Deer and Drumheller, while also contributing to low winter flows along the Red Deer River. The enhancement project will increase the capacity of the dam’s spillways, allowing for a safer discharge of water from the Glennifer Reservoir during flood events.

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, says the government’s commitment to water management reflects a proactive approach to resource management, aiming to protect the environment, and prepare communities and the economy for potential drought, fire, and flood.

“Our government is committed to investing in and building a strong water management program to protect communities and infrastructure from floods and drought,” says Minister Sigurdson. “We are taking a whole-government approach to managing and maintaining provincial water systems to make sure Albertans have a safe, reliable water supply.”

This is part of the Government of Alberta’s Budget 2024 plan to build safe and supportive communities, manage resources wisely, and promote job creation.