The Springbank Off-stream reservoir represents the Government of Alberta’s solution to mitigate severe flooding along the Elbow River, similar to what took place in June of 2013. Current plans call for a dry reservoir with a capacity of 70.2 million cubic metres, with an outlet structure to safely release the water back to the river when safe to do so. The reservoir will be located approximately 15 kilometres west of the City of Calgary.
The Government of Alberta, under Premier Jason Kenney, hired lawyer Martin Ignesiak in May to explore ways to expedite the project. However, in July, the Tsuut’ina Nation Council voted to formally oppose the project, citing environmental impact concerns including the potential for groundwater pollution. This opposition is likely to delay the project’s original anticipated completion date.
Construction will require three years, with the reservoir being functionally operational at a reduced level after two years.
