Alberta studying three reservoir options on Red Deer River
Province seeking public input on dam near Ardley to meet growing water demand; survey open until July 30.
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Alberta's government is asking residents to weigh in on a proposed dam and reservoir about 40 kilometres east of Red Deer that could help address the province's growing water needs.
The project would be located on the Red Deer River near the hamlet of Ardley. An online survey is open until July 30, and the province is hosting in-person and virtual engagement sessions next month.
According to the province, the reservoir would increase water storage to help meet demand as Alberta's population and economy grow. Additional storage could help reduce drought impacts, lower flood risk, support agriculture and irrigation, and provide water for communities and industry.
The study area stretches along the Red Deer River east of Red Deer and the Highway 21 Content Bridge crossing, including public and privately owned land in Lacombe County, Red Deer County, and the County of Stettler No. 6.
The province is evaluating three options: a low reservoir offering the smallest footprint, a high reservoir with greater storage capacity, and an extended reservoir offering the most storage but also the greatest complexity. Each option carries different environmental, technical, economic, cultural, and community considerations.
The Ardley Reservoir Scoping and Feasibility Study began in October 2024 and is expected to continue through fall 2026. Residents can submit feedback through the online survey until July 30 or attend public engagement sessions on July 14 or July 16, 2026.
