Following a winter marked by heavy snowfall, the MD of Smoky River is reminding residents of protocols pertaining to spring melt.
Flooding on private agricultural land during spring runoff is a natural occurrence, and the responsibility of landowners.
With above-average snowpack beginning to melt, officials say water pooling in low-lying fields is expected this time of year and is not something municipalities are required to manage. The MD notes its role is to maintain public infrastructure such as road ditches, culverts, and bridges, and does not extend to draining private farmland.
However, if municipal infrastructure, such as a blocked culvert, is contributing to water backup, residents are encouraged to report it to the municipality’s public works department.
Landowners planning drainage work are also reminded to follow the Alberta Water Act, as altering natural water flow without proper approval can lead to legal issues. For support or dispute resolution, residents can contact Alberta Environment or the Farmers’ Advocate Office.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
