Alberta’s government has initiated a comprehensive review of more than 100 potential sites for dams, reservoirs, and other water infrastructure to address the province's growing water demands and prepare for future challenges like droughts and floods.With Alberta’s population and economy expanding, the demand for water continues to rise. The province’s variable climate and geography make water storage critical to securing a reliable supply. The review aims to identify locations that could support long-term water storage projects to sustain communities, agriculture, and industry.“We are making sure that Alberta has the water it needs to support our growing communities and a thriving economy for generations to come,” said Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “This study will take a hard look at sites across the province to help us identify the most effective places to build future water storage projects.”The Water Storage Opportunities Study, expected to be completed in 2025, will evaluate sites based on hydrology, design considerations, environmental and social impacts, and potential costs and benefits. The findings will guide future decisions about water infrastructure projects, with some top-ranked sites potentially moving on to detailed feasibility studies.RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, emphasized the importance of water for Alberta’s agriculture industry. “Water is a precious resource and one that is essential for agriculture. Identifying potential opportunities for new reservoirs will help continue to grow our province and ensure our agriculture industry has the water it needs," he said.This review is part of broader efforts by the province to modernize Alberta’s water management system, including feasibility studies for the Ardley reservoir and Eyremore Dam, and the $125 million Drought and Flood Protection Program.The results of the study will help Alberta balance the need for water security with environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility as the province prepares for a sustainable future.
