As demand for water in central Alberta continues to grow, Alberta’s government is focused on ensuring reliable water capacity and reducing the impact of drought and floods. That’s why Albertans are being invited to provide input on a potential Red Deer River reservoir near Ardley.

Albertans will have multiple opportunities to participate, including an in-person engagement session, a webinar and an online survey. This engagement builds on work already underway through the Ardley Reservoir scoping and feasibility study, the initial findings of which are available for public review. Feedback gathered through these engagements will help inform whether the project proceeds to the next stage of development.

“We are committed to ensuring Alberta’s water capacity remains strong and reliable in the face of rapid population and economic growth. That’s why we are exploring additional water capacity options and engaging Albertans throughout the decision-making process.”

Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

“Exploring new storage options like a potential Red Deer River reservoir is about planning ahead so families and communities have the reliable supply they need. Engaging residents on a potential reservoir near Ardley is the responsible step to ensure we’re prepared for the future.”

Devin Dreeshen, MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake

“The Red Deer River Municipal Users Group believes one of the most important conversations involving the Red Deer River in the next decade will involve water storage and water management. We look forward to working with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas regarding the ongoing Ardley Dam conversation.”

Dan Povaschuk, mayor, Town of Hanna, and urban chair, Red Deer River Municipal Users Group

The potential Ardley Reservoir builds on ongoing water capacity work across the province, including the Eyremore Dam feasibility study, the Belly River Dam and Waterton–St. Mary Headworks System Optimization feasibility study and the Ghost Reservoir Infrastructure Project on the Bow River. Through these initiatives, Alberta’s government is strengthening long-term water capacity to support communities and economic growth.

Quick facts

  • In-person engagement session:
    • Tuesday, July 14
    • 6 – 8 p.m.
    • Holiday Inn & Suites Red Deer South
    • 33 Petrolia Drive, Gasoline Alley East, Red Deer County
  • Webinar:
    • Thursday, July 16
    • 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
  • The Ardley Reservoir public engagement is open until July 30.
  • In addition to the public engagement, Environment and Protected Areas will also engage Indigenous organizations, municipalities and other potentially impacted groups.
  • The potential Ardley Reservoir would be located on the Red Deer River, near the Hamlet of Ardley, with a dam site about 40 to 60 kilometres east of the City of Red Deer.

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