New and expanded Water Act exemptions will increase water availability, improve conservation, support agricultural production and help protect communities from future emergencies.
Currently, many dugouts are sized too small to capture available water because of a 2,500 cubic metre exemption limit. Effective immediately, farmers and ranchers can fill their dugouts up to 7,500 cubic metres – triple the previous limit – provided the water is used for agricultural purposes. This change helps protect them from future droughts and supports strong agricultural operations.
“Albertans asked for practical improvements to make more water available, and we’re delivering. These changes make it easier for farmers, businesses and communities to access and store water. It’s good for communities, the environment and the economy.”
Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas
“Reliable access to water is essential for Alberta’s farmers and ranchers, especially as they manage drought risk and plan for the future. These practical changes respond directly to what producers and rural communities have been asking for – making it easier to store and use water responsibly so agricultural operations can remain strong, resilient and productive."
R.J. Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
Alberta’s government is also making it easier for communities and businesses to use less fresh water by using stormwater instead. Under the new exemptions, a newly constructed wetland will also be able to capture and fill with up to 7,500 cubic metres of local surface runoff per year. That’s a 1,250 cubic metre increase from the previous limit, supporting more wetlands across the province.
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