The Government of Alberta has released a comprehensive five-stage drought response plan to address potential water shortages. This proactive plan ensures that Albertans receive the necessary support regardless of weather conditions or drought severity.
The plan encompasses various aspects, including conservation measures, water-sharing agreements, and prioritizing water for human health and safety. It also outlines the process for declaring an emergency under the Water Act, a measure that has not been employed in the province’s history.
Key objectives of the plan include safeguarding public health and safety from drought impacts, minimizing the economic and environmental consequences for communities, implementing proactive risk-based approaches to assess and respond to drought conditions, and encouraging Albertans to conserve water and collaborate during times of scarcity.
Currently, Alberta is in Stage 4 of its drought response plan. This stage involves collaboration with major water users to develop water storage response plans, expediting temporary diversion licenses to allow for water acquisition from new sources, and announcing water-sharing agreements.
The first three stages of the plan focused on monitoring water availability and predicting the likelihood of droughts. Despite recent precipitation and optimistic forecasts, the government emphasizes the importance of ongoing preparedness.
Stage 5 of the plan, declaring an emergency under the Water Act, would be a last resort. If implemented, it would temporarily prioritize water usage. Temporary measures could include suspending water approvals, registrations, or licenses, as well as designating specific purposes and volumes for water diversion or use.
An emergency declaration would be localized, ranging from small geographical areas within a sub-basin to the entire South Saskatchewan River basin or province, depending on the drought’s severity.
The province acknowledges the potential for flooding during May and June and maintains a 24-hour monitoring and emergency response system. Currently, 51 water shortage advisories are in place for water management areas across Alberta.
The government emphasizes that the drought response plan is a crucial foundation for addressing water shortages. It will enable the province to respond effectively to all levels of drought for years to come, ensuring the well-being of Albertans and the province’s economy and environment.
