When water has been trenched from one wetland to another or directly toward a road, the additional water increases the natural water flow, and the existing infrastructure isn’t adequate or capable of preventing water from overflowing.
Culverts will not be increased in diameter to address additional flow caused by drainage on adjacent lands.
If you are experiencing or notice any landowners trenching from one wetland to another or directly toward a road, we encourage you to call the Alberta Government Environment Hotline at 1-800-222-6514 (24-hour emergency/complaint line). And if you wish, you can remain anonymous.
Landowners are NOT permitted to drain any wetland/slough or body of water unless they have obtained a permit or permission from Alberta Environment.