The Environment Minister's Viewpoint on River Management

Based on a speech given by Brian Evans
Minister of Alberta Environmental Protection
October 14, 1995

A mountain river becomes many things to many people

I've lived alongside the Bow River for 20 years - fished, run my dog and canoed - and it is a truly magnificent contribution to our quality of life in southern Alberta. To say that the Bow River is unique is an understatement and unquestioned. This river has an impact regionally, provincially, and personally.

Many Things to Many People

The Bow River is an excellent tourist destination and world-class trout fishery. It provides drinking water to millions, irrigation and raw power turned into electricity. The Bow River is a central feature of Banff Park (the flagship of the Canadian Parks system). All of this is not lost on government - neither is the important contribution that the Bow River makes to industry and municipal quality of life.

River Basin Partnerships

River management must be done together all along the watershed. Toxic waste round-ups, river clean-ups and storm drain marking all help. A partnership approach to river basin management should bring together government and user groups regionally, provincially and federally. This government is committed to consult and listen to Albertans.

New Water Resources Management Act

We now have the opportunity to write new legislation during a review of the Water Resources Management Act. The current legislation is 60 years old and does not focus on protecting and conserving ecosystems. I encourage members of the public to become involved through public meetings, toll free lines and written submissions. The legislation will affect Albertans far, wide and into the 21st century.

Our Life Line

I commend all of you for your involvement. I, too, share your vision to protect "Our Life Line, the Bow River". We must balance a range of user needs but a healthy river and ecosystem are a priority concern. The river is here to use and enjoy, not destroy. We have an important responsibility to regulate the use of the river, its quality and its quantity. I wish you all continued success in your efforts to protect the Bow River.