A study will look into improvements on the Belly River. (Photo: Martin Kraft)

By David Opinko

Study to investigate water improvements in southern Alberta

Sep 18, 2025 | 11:55 AM

The Alberta Government has hired a firm to look into how water storage and flow in the region could be improved.

WSP Canada will study the potential for a new reservoir on the Belly River, approximately five kilometres northwest of Mountain View in Cardston County.

They will also determine if there are opportunities to improve the canal between the Waterton and St. Mary Reservoirs.

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, says he wants to ensure Albertans have the water they need for irrigation, as well as municipal, industrial, agricultural and recreational use.

“We are looking for ways to improve water security to guard against drought and flood and help our farmers and ranchers feed the world. We are taking a whole-government approach to managing and maintaining provincial water infrastructure systems to make sure Albertans continue to have a safe, reliable water supply,” says Sigurdson.

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Several irrigation districts depend on the Belly River as a water source, including the Magrath, Mountain View, Raymond, St. Mary River, Taber and United Irrigation Districts.

Fred Rice, District Manager with the United Irrigation District in Glenwood, says he appreciates the government looking into what improvements can be made.

“We are excited to see this feasibility study going forward, and we look forward to its results. Irrigation is the lifeblood of agriculture in southern Alberta,” says Rice.

The studies are expected to take several years to complete.