The Government of Alberta is currently seeking feedback on two upstream reservoir proposals on the Bow River, sparking opposition from various groups. The Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation has expressed concerns about one of the options, specifically the Glenbow East Dam, which could potentially impact park space and the newly opened Haskayne Legacy Park. Former Calgary city councillor Jeromy Farkas, who is now the CEO of the foundation, believes that the relocation of the existing Ghost Dam would have the least impact on the area and wildlife. The cost estimates for the different proposals range from $917 million to $992 million, with the Glenbow East option being the most expensive. The third option, involving a dam near Morley on the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, is still under study and not ready for public engagement.
Public engagement on the reservoir proposals has been ongoing for three years, with various methods such as virtual live sessions, in-person meetings, webinars, and stakeholder group discussions. The current round of engagement has been extended by a week, allowing more time for feedback until May 13. Minister Rebecca Schulz of Environment and Parks has directed officials to ensure thorough engagement with the public and stakeholders. The decision on the reservoir proposal is expected next year, with operational timelines pointing to 2034 as the earliest possible timeframe. Various groups have different perspectives on the necessity of an upstream reservoir, with some, like Jean Woeller of the Bowness Responsible Flood Mitigation Society, emphasizing the benefits for flood and drought protection.
The Glenbow East Dam proposal faces opposition due to concerns about its potential impacts on park space and surrounding areas. Farkas argues for the relocation of the Ghost Dam as a less disruptive option that would still provide the necessary water capacity. The cost estimates for the different reservoir options vary, with the Glenbow East option being the most expensive. The ongoing public engagement process, which has spanned three years, aims to gather feedback and ensure that all stakeholders are involved in the decision-making process. Minister Schulz has extended the current round of engagement to allow for further input from the public.
The proposal for a new upstream reservoir on the Bow River has sparked debates among various groups, each with their own perspective on the necessity of such a project. The decision on the reservoir proposal is expected next year, with operational timelines indicating that the reservoir may not be operational until 2034. Different options, including the Glenbow East Dam and the relocation of the Ghost Dam, are being considered, each with their own advantages and drawbacks. The cost estimates for the different proposals range from $917 million to $992 million, with the Glenbow East option being the most expensive.
The ongoing public engagement process aims to ensure that all voices are heard and that the concerns of different groups are taken into consideration. Minister Schulz has directed officials to extend the current round of engagement to allow for additional feedback from the public. Various stakeholders, including the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation and the Bowness Responsible Flood Mitigation Society, have expressed their views on the reservoir proposals, with some advocating for flood and drought protection, while others raise concerns about potential impacts on park space and wildlife. The decision on the reservoir proposal will ultimately hinge on a balance between the need for water capacity and the preservation of natural habitats.
