The Government of Alberta is looking at groundwater to help meet growing demand for water in southern Alberta.
A three-year, $3.8-million Southern Alberta Groundwater Evaluation was announced by the Province on Jan. 28.
The study will map the quality, quantity and location of groundwater in the South Saskatchewan River and Milk River basins in southern Alberta, an area prone to drought and water shortages where demand for water is increasing, the Province said.
“With groundwater a critical source of water in the region, there is a need to fill in gaps and better understand how much is available to support communities and businesses in the years ahead,” the Province said.
The South Saskatchewan River basin includes the Bow River sub-basin, with the Sheep and Highwood rivers, plus the Oldman, South Saskatchewan and Red Deer River sub-basins.
The study will help effectively manage groundwater and will improve drought resilience for communities and the economy, said Rebecca Schulz, Alberta’s minister of environment and protected areas.
“With growing communities and a thriving economy driving increased demand for water in Alberta, it’s more important than ever that we ensure we have a good understanding of all our sources of water,” Schulz said.
The study will aid in regulatory decisions and improve clarity for those applying to use groundwater, and will also look at the effects of higher groundwater use on surface water availability and connected ecosystems, the Province said.
Vicki Lightbown, an executive director at Alberta Innovates, said groundwater has potential to help meet growing water demands.
“With a changing climate, growing population and economy, water availability is a critical issue,” Lightbown said.
Interactive data and groundwater maps will be published once the study is complete in 2027.
