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By rdnewsNOW staff

PROVINCIAL

Alberta government removes holdbacks to make water more available

Apr 5, 2025 | 4:55 PM

The Government of Alberta made water more available for communities, businesses, and irrigators by removing unnecessary holdbacks.

On Friday, the province announced they’ve removed the 10 per cent holdback on most water licence transfers as the barrier often prevents available water to be used safely by those that need it.

The decision by the government was made with three new policy directions so water is only held back when necessary.

The new rules will make water transfers easier, free up more water in southern and central Alberta, and support economic growth.

“Alberta communities, irrigators, and industry have asked for a more flexible system. Removing unnecessary holdbacks will make it easier – and less costly – for water license users to get the water they need, when they need it most, without reducing their overall allocation,” said Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.

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In total, there are roughly 25,000 water licenses in Alberta and as of January 2025 there have been 407 completed water transfers, most of which occurred in the South Saskatchewan River Basin and some in the Battle River basin.

In the past, 10 per cent holdbacks were for most license transfers. After engaging with water users, the government found holdbacks reduce water sharing because of unnecessary costs.

For example, under the previous system, a southern Alberta irrigator transferring water to another farmer would have had to hold back 10 per cent of that amount.

Now, water will only be held back as needed to prevent negatively affecting other water users or the environment, in line with the requirements under the Water Act.

This change will also make the system more effective as water licence holders can now transfer unused water to others who need it.

The new guidance applies to all river basins where transfers are allowed, including the South Saskatchewan River, Battle River and Milk River.