Concerns over Alberta water-sharing deal Global News Network

The Alberta government has announced the largest water-sharing deal in the province’s history, but some say it’s not enough.

This means that during severe droughts, municipalities will use less water.

Cities, irrigation districts and industry players signed a memorandum of understanding covering four sub-basins including the Red Deer River, Bow River, Oldman River mainstem and upper Oldman tributaries.

The deals have been called the largest of their kind in Alberta history, dwarfing those signed during the 2001 drought.

Provincial Environment Minister Rebecca Schultz said at a news conference Friday that the agreements didn’t happen overnight. They represent countless hours of negotiation, compromise and a shared belief that Albertans would be better off working together during a period of potential water scarcity.

Schultz said municipalities have agreed to cut water use by 5% to 10% if needed to meet the goal of not affecting indoor water use. She added that some people are already taking it upon themselves to do so.

Geophysicist Jenny Yeremiy said the agreement doesn’t go far enough and the province needs to look further ahead.

“It’s like a parent standing at the top of the stairs and saying, ‘You kids fix this problem, or I’m going to come down and help you deal with it,'” Jeremiah said.

“It’s really important that we address this over the next few years and not take as many precautions as possible, which to me is to stop using water in every way.”

Industries have agreed to use the minimum amounts necessary to operate safely and responsibly. The irrigation district has agreed to allow other users to obtain permits first and then reserve the remainder for permitted use.

Schultz said it won’t be clear whether those protocols are needed until snowpack data is released later this month. Starting in May, water volumes are updated every two weeks.

Jeremi is concerned that the oil industry is passing the deal so it doesn’t have to conserve as much water.

on her radio show your province your governor Calgary Premier Danielle Smith said at 630 CHED and 770 QR Calgary that industrial water only accounts for a small portion of the province’s water use, but changes will occur if necessary.

“If we put water restrictions in place, I would have to declare a state of emergency and we have discussed this in cabinet and the priority will be habitat for people, livestock and fish,” Smith said.

“If we can get out in the fields and get the seeds in the ground by May 1, we’re going to have a good harvest, and anything early is a bonus,” said Joe Bendo, a farmer in central Alberta. Joe Bendoritis said. “We need moisture in May, June, July and August.

“Conditions are looking dry overall, but that’s normal for this time of year.”

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