About this program
Environmental flows (also known as instream flows, or instream flow needs) describes the quantity, timing and quality of water flow required to sustain freshwater ecosystems, including fish populations as well as the human livelihoods that depend on these freshwater ecosystems.
When we withdraw water from a river or lake to meet our own needs, we must also consider how much water must remain to meet the aquatic ecosystem’s needs. This difficult and complex question is addressed through the Environmental Flows Program.
The Environmental Flows Program works to ensure vital water flow and lake levels are maintained for healthy aquatic ecosystems in Alberta’s rivers and lakes through science, policy and partnerships.
What environmental flows are and why they play an important role in river ecology.
Find information on our partners as well as provincial and international resources.