Water
Also known as the water cycle, this refers to the continuous movement of water within Earth’s atmosphere.
Alberta's water resources include rivers, lakes, creeks, groundwater, glaciers and wetlands. All water resources -whether surface waters or groundwater - interact as part of the hydrologic cycle.
To effectively manage our water resources, we must know how much water is available to us year-round and the quality of that water.
Our water resources must be available for a variety of uses, including residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural and environmental purposes. Water supplies in southern Alberta are already under pressure. Albertans have a responsibility to manage water resources wisely. In November 2003, Alberta adopted the Water for Life Strategy, which was renewed in November 2008. Three outcomes are central to this strategy:
- Safe, secure drinking water supply
- Healthy aquatic ecosystems
- Reliable, quality water supplies for a sustainable economy
These outcomes will be achieved through knowledge and research, partnerships, and water conservation.
Environmental indicators allow Albertans to track water quality and quantity throughout the province, as well as track progress towards meeting the above outcomes.
