Press Release
July 10, 2024
EDMONTON, AB — A new report released today by Alberta’s Auditor General found that the government lacks effective processes to manage surface water allocation and use, and public reporting on surface water and the outcomes of surface water management is lacking.
“Water plays a key role in Alberta’s economy, supporting major sectors such as agriculture and energy. It is crucial for sustaining economic growth and maintaining a high standard of living for both present and future generations,” said Auditor General Doug Wylie.
The audit found that the Department of Environment and Protected Areas:
The Auditor General made three recommendations for the department to establish process to identify when to develop, assess, and update water conservation objectives; improve licensing and compliance-monitoring processes; and publicly report relevant and reliable information on managing surface water.
“Alberta could face more severe and frequent droughts,” said Wylie. “Water conservation helps the government manage water allocation and control usage, especially during droughts and shortages. Effective licensing and monitoring ensure proper water use and prevent abuse.”
Surface water is the water on the Earth’s surface, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands. It is primarily replenished through precipitation, with snowmelt the largest contributor, followed by rainfall. Alberta has seven major river basins. The north-flowing river basins contain most of the province’s water resources, but the majority of Alberta’s population lives in the south. The South Saskatchewan River Basin contains 13 per cent of Alberta’s surface water, hosts 37 per cent of Alberta’s population, and accounts for 68 per cent of the province’s water allocated to users.
The Surface Water Management Performance Audit report is available here.
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NOTE: Please see the following Summary of Report Findings for additional information.
Appointed under Alberta’s Auditor General Act, the Auditor General is the legislated auditor of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Province of Alberta and most provincial agencies, boards, commissions, and regulated funds. The work of the office improves performance and promotes accountability within government by making recommendations that can result in better outcomes, better services, and better programs for Albertans.
For more information, please contact:
Cheryl Schneider, Executive Director, Engagement and Communications
Mobile: 780.399.0554 | Email: cschneider@oag.ab.ca
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