Athabasca River water management framework
Alberta set strict limits on how much water oil sands companies can remove from the Athabasca River, setting a high level of protection that is balanced with the needs of the community and industry. The goal is to ensure low impact to the river ecosystem, coupled with water conservation and innovation by water users.
Alberta is taking a phased approach with a framework that is based on scientific research, stakeholder input and expertise within the provincial and federal governments. Monitoring and assessment of the protective and socio-economic goals in the region will continue throughout the life of oil sands projects.
Oil sands companies are complying with Phase One of the Framework via the implementation of the “Oil Sands Water Management Agreement for the 2008-2009 Winter Period”, dated December 2008. The agreement includes the four oil sands companies currently operating and withdrawing water from the river (Canadian Natural Resources Limited, Shell Albian Sands, Suncor Energy Inc., and Syncrude Canada Ltd.). The agreement restricts the withdrawal rate of each company in order to cumulatively meet the withdrawal rate defined by the Water Management Framework.
Further work underway on the Framework (Phase Two) includes development of an ecological base flow to ensure the aquatic ecosystem remains protected into the future. Phase Two will utilize further scientific and traditional knowledge of the Lower Athabasca River gathered over the years.For more information, contact team lead Pat Marriott at 780-427-7033.
