Alberta Wildlife Federation demands consultation on proposed Red Deer River dam

The Alberta Wildlife Federation (AWF) is demanding public consultation and a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regarding a proposed dam and reservoir on the Red Deer River. The project, located near the Ardley area, is currently undergoing a $4.5 million scoping and feasibility study initiated by the Alberta government in October 2024.

The proposed reservoir could potentially be four times larger than the Gleniffer Reservoir and Dickson Dam, with estimated costs ranging between $2 billion and $4 billion. The study aims to evaluate the project's effectiveness in managing floods, droughts, and water supplies, while also assessing impacts on infrastructure, communities, and the environment.

AWF habitat chair Tyler Riewe stated that Albertans require a clear understanding of the project's necessity, examined alternatives, and potential environmental consequences before decisions are finalized. The federation emphasized that an EIA is essential to address effects on fish, wildlife, habitat, and water resources.