red deer reservoir A new water project in the Red Deer River Basin could offer producers a solution when dealing with drought conditions in future. The project could also be relevant to farmers in other Prairie regions facing uncertain precipitation levels in years to come, according to a University of Calgary professor. The government of Alberta recently announced that it is studying the feasibility of a new reservoir between Calgary and Edmonton in response to the ongoing drought. The project aims to provide insight into water management infrastructure options for areas suffering from insufficient rainfall. In doing this, the aim is to explore potential benefits for farmers and communities living downstream. Potential benefits for farmers UCalgary’s Dr. Alain Pietroniro explains this project could offer significant benefits for farmers dealing with drought issues. “The reservoir offers many benefits to farmers, particularly in areas where water availability and rainfall are inconsistent. “One of the primary advantages is the ability to ensure access to water during droughts, reducing reliance on rainfall. This consistent supply of water allows farmers to control irrigation schedules more effectively, typically leading to higher yields.” Pietroniro points out one of the key issues farmers face is the risk of crop failure when drought conditions persist. With a constant water source, farmers would benefit by producing higher yields and having the option to expand on the types of crops they grow. “A reservoir provides a buffer against water shortages, particularly during periods of drought, which increases the risk of crop failure. Irrigation reduces the dependence on rain-fed agriculture, allowing farmers to utilize their land more efficiently and predictably.” Having a reservoir can also have many economic benefits for both producers and the economy, Pietroniro says. “Increased agricultural productivity can also boost local economies through the creation of jobs in farming, food processing and distribution. “We have seen this in and around the Lethbridge area as an example. ‘A RESERVOIR PROVIDES A BUFFER AGAINST WATER SHORTAGES DURING DROUGHT’ PROJECT COULD OFFER DROUGHT RELIEF FOR FARMERS BY MARY LOGGAN Tracy Miller photo 24 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | November/December 2024
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTc0MDI3