St. Mary water basin includes studies to explore water storage: Budget 2024

Posted on March 14, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

Southern Alberta Newspapers

The St. Mary River water basin that runs from the St. Mary Reservoir as far southeast as Forest Peak Lake, Mont., will be included in a study to explore options for water storage as the province announced its 2024 budget on Feb. 29.

The budget will provide $10 million to conduct the studies in water basins that flow downstream beginning with Waterton east toward the Belly River, St. Mary and Ardley.

It’s part of $418-million in capital funding over the next three years for infrastructure and drought mitigation projects to increase the water supply in the province.

“We are making critical investments to protect, conserve and maximize water in Alberta,” says Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz. “These measures will help keep communities safe during emergencies while keeping families in their homes and businesses open during droughts and floods.”

The remaining capital funding will provide $262 million for irrigation projects to support agriculture producers and $147 million for water infrastructure projects necessary fir irrigation water supply over the next three years.

“As we face what may be another tough year for Alberta’s agriculture industry,” said Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson. “Budget 2024 is looking to the future to see where new water projects are possible while ensuring our existing infrastructure continues to be well-maintained to provide water security for Albertans.”

A total of $19 million be spent to create modern water conservation, data systems and projects.