Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (EPA) has officially launched the Regulatory Dialogue Portal, a new online tool designed to improve communication and responsiveness around regulatory approvals under the Water Act and the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA).
This initiative responds in part to Resolution 6-23, passed by Alberta’s Agricultural Service Boards (ASBs), which called for stronger enforcement and more accessible communication regarding water management issues.
Access the Portal Here: Regulatory Dialogue Portal
Resolution 6-23: Enforcement of Water Management
Resolution 6-23, sponsored by the County of Two Hills, highlighted serious concerns about contraventions to the Alberta Water Act, including:
- Unauthorized water diversions, creek crossings, and obstructions
- Impacts on adjacent landowners and municipal infrastructure
- Lack of investigation or follow-up due to staffing and funding shortages
The resolution urged Alberta Environment and Protected Areas to provide adequate resources to support enforcement of the Water Act and ensure that these contraventions are addressed.
What the Regulatory Dialogue Portal Offers
The new portal is a streamlined digital platform that allows Albertans—including municipalities, landowners, and agricultural producers—to submit questions or concerns related to regulatory approvals. Key features include:
- Direct access to subject matter experts within EPA
- Timely responses—typically within three business days
- Support for approvals under the Water Act and EPEA
- Improved transparency and accountability
The portal is designed to complement existing systems like the Digital Regulatory Assurance System (DRAS), but focuses specifically on dialogue and feedback.
Why This Matters to ASBs and Rural Communities
The launch of the Regulatory Dialogue Portal is a step forward for rural Alberta. It may address long-standing frustrations around regulatory enforcement and communication, and aligns with the Water Act’s purpose to:
- Promote conservation and wise use of water
- Support Alberta’s economic growth and environmental sustainability
- Ensure responsive and comprehensive regulatory action
For ASBs, this portal provides a formal mechanism to raise concerns, seek clarification, and advocate for better enforcement—especially in cases where water management issues affect agricultural operations and local infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
The creation of the Regulatory Dialogue Portal shows that ASB advocacy works. Resolution 6-23 brought attention to a critical gap in enforcement and communication, and the province responded with a tangible solution.
We encourage all ASBs, municipalities, and stakeholders to use the portal actively, share feedback, and continue working together to ensure Alberta’s water resources are managed responsibly and transparently.
***Please note, questions related to the Digital Regulatory Assurance System (DRAS) should continue to be routed to the DRAS support email (regulatoryassurance.support@gov.ab.ca) or by contacting (780) 427-6311 or toll free at 310-000 between 8:15 am and 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday (closed statutory holidays).
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