Title
AAMDC Resolution - Water Quantity and Quality Management
Proposed Motion
That a resolution be submitted to the January 16, 2017 Pembina Zone meeting for the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties to advocate that the Government of Alberta complete water management planning, monitor and provide reports regarding water flow and quality, develop aquifer management plans, and support and fund municipal watershed partnerships and Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the motion.
Purpose
To urge the Government of Alberta to support and fund water quantity and quality management for all river basins, including major tributaries, in Alberta.
Summary
Land use change, population growth, climate impacts, surface water and groundwater use are all factors impacting water in Alberta. The effects seen include declining water levels in lakes, rivers and groundwater; water quality concerns; the introduction of invasive species; “flashy” flood events; droughts and impacts to overall ecosystem health. These impacts are very evident in lakes, wetlands and smaller tributaries feeding the major rivers in Alberta.
Water management planning must be tied closely with land use planning and local decision-making, which falls largely to municipalities. Therefore, a close working relationship between municipalities and the Government of Alberta is crucial to the protection of Alberta’s water resources.
By putting forth this resolution, we are asking the Government of Alberta to complete or enable water management planning in all river basins in the province, including tributaries. For this to be feasible, water quantity and quality monitoring must be completed on an annual basis on major rivers and tributaries to enable determination of water conservation objectives. This will protect the aquatic environment while still allowing for economic growth in the province.
Strategic Plan/Policy...
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