Alberta and the Northwest Territories have signed an agreement to protect the integrity of water flowing downstream from Alberta to the Northwest Territories.

The Alberta-Northwest Territories bilateral water management agreement commits both governments to co-operatively manage water resources. The agreement focuses on aquatic ecosystems in the Mackenzie River Basin, the longest and largest river system in Canada.

“Water is a vital resource that knows no boundaries. We are committed to ensuring Albertans and our neighbours in the Northwest Territories have access to a healthy and sustainable water supply, now and in the future,” said Alberta Premier Jim Prentice.

The agreement will help ensure water management plans take an adaptive management approach that determines what actions should be taken and when based on scientific monitoring. It will also respect the jurisdiction of governments and ensure water is collaboratively managed for the benefit of the environment, people, and the economy.

“Sustaining and protecting the environment is a critical part of our government’s balanced approach to creating jobs and economic opportunities through responsible development. We welcome Alberta’s partnership and shared commitment to a healthy environment supporting healthy, prosperous people,” said Northwest Territories Premier Bob McLeod.

The Alberta-Northwest Territories Bilateral Water Agreement supports the Mackenzie River Basin Transboundary Waters Master Agreement, Alberta’s Water Conversation theme of managing industrial water use, and the Northwest Territories Water Strategy.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your name here
Please enter your comment!