Tuesday, April 26th, 2022
L. Fitch photo.
Southern Alberta’s rivers are at risk with the present levels of water diversions for irrigation agriculture. The irrigation sector has proposed a “modernization” scheme, funded by nearly a billion dollars of provincial funds, a loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank and some of their own money. While irrigation efficiency has merits, it appears none of the saved water will remain in our rivers to improve declining aquatic health. Irrigation expansion, up to 230,000 acres is projected as one of the benefits of this modernization scheme. It is critical Albertans know what the implications and consequences are if this proceeds, especially without an environmental impact assessment with broad public participation. This presentation by Lorne Fitch, P. Biol. will provide some light on the initiative and the issues.
SPEAKER PROFILE
Lorne’s been a biologist for 50 years, and has worked on many issues related to use of land and water. Much of his work has revolved around native trout conservation and management. Lorne is a professional biologist, a retired provincial Fish and Wildlife biologist, the former Provincial Riparian Specialist with Alberta Cows and Fish and a former Adjunct Professor with the University of Calgary. Lethbridge is home, where he pens articles and essays on issues related to Alberta’s landscape and critters.
PLUS! Here’s an article Lorne wrote for the latest AWA’s Wildlands Advocate magazine: