Meeting Alberta's rising demand for water

Bill 7, the Water Amendment Act, would help farmers, ranchers, communities and businesses by streamlining regulatory requirements, increasing transparency and making it easier for Albertans to use and share water.

The proposed changes keep the strong foundation of Alberta’s water management system in place while introducing common-sense updates that protect the environment while supporting a growing province and economy.

“Water is one of Alberta’s most precious resources. Alberta is growing, and so is the demand for water. By listening to Albertans and updating the Water Act, we’re helping communities, businesses, and our economy grow and access the water they need to thrive.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas
 
“By making these crucial changes, we’re taking an important step toward strengthening and growing our agriculture industry. These changes will help increase access to water, support the expansion of our irrigation districts and ensure farmers and ranchers have the resources they need to keep Alberta’s ag sector strong.”

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
 
“Alberta has a growing population and thriving economy. After 25 years without change, Bill 7 will modernize the Water Act so farmers, businesses and communities can better use and share water and keep Alberta’s momentum going.”

Grant Hunter, Associate Minister of Water
 
“These changes come directly from farmers, ranchers, municipalities, Indigenous communities and others who rely on water every day. As Chair of the Water Advisory Committee, I’ve heard firsthand how critical these updates are. Bill 7 will make our system stronger and more efficient and make more water available for where it’s needed most.”