Bulletin 2015-26

This bulletin provides an update on the restrictions to temporary diversion licences (TDLs) for flowing watercourses (i.e., rivers, creeks) announced in Bulletin 2015-25. Due to recent rainfall events and cooler weather, some restrictions have been lifted.

The current status of the restrictions to TDLs announced in Bulletin 2015-25 are as follows:

• Battle River basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for all flowing watercourses. No change.
• South Saskatchewan River basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for specific flowing watercourses. The restriction on the Sheep River, however, has been lifted.
• Milk River basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for specific flowing watercourses. No change.
• Peace River basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for specific flowing watercourses. No change.
• Athabasca River Basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for all flowing watercourses upstream of the town of Athabasca except the Athabasca River, which is no longer restricted.
• North Saskatchewan River basin – no TDL applications are being accepted for specific flowing watercourses. No change.

In areas where restrictions are in effect, the AER will reject applications for TDLs. In all other areas of the province, the AER will review TDL applications on a case-by-case basis and may issue TDLs with conditions limiting the quantity of water or the rate of water diversion.

The AER will continue to work with Alberta Environment and Parks to analyze water flow information and will lift the current restrictions when flows return to acceptable levels or, if needed, impose additional restrictions in other basins.

A map of current water restrictions in Alberta is available on the Alberta Environment and Parks website.

<original signed by>

Kirk Bailey
Executive Vice President
Operations