A major reservoir could be coming to a central Alberta river
Alberta’s government is asking residents to weigh in on a proposed dam and reservoir about 40 kilometres east of Red Deer.
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 also hosting in-person and virtual engagement sessions next month.
According to the province, the reservoir would increase water storage to help meet growing demand as Alberta’s population and economy continue to grow. The government says additional storage could help reduce the impacts of drought, 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. It includes public and privately owned land in Lacombe County, Red Deer County, and the County of Stettler No. 6.
The province is evaluating three possible reservoir options:
Low reservoir: A smaller reservoir with the smallest footprint.
High reservoir: A larger reservoir with greater storage capacity.
Extended reservoir: The largest option, offering the most storage but also the greatest complexity.
The Government of Alberta
The Province says each option comes with different environmental, technical, economic, cultural, and community considerations.
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The Ardley Reservoir Scoping and Feasibility Study began in October 2024. The completed scoping phase examined potential dam and reservoir locations, reviewed existing environmental and technical information, and narrowed the project to the three options now under consideration.
The current feasibility phase includes field studies examining soil, water, wildlife, vegetation, and other factors to better understand the potential impacts of each option.
The study is expected to continue through Fall 2026. Once it’s complete, the Alberta government will review the findings, decide whether to proceed, and further evaluate a preferred option.
Residents can submit feedback through the online survey until July 30 or attend one of two public engagement sessions on July 14 or July 16, 2026.
More information can be found on the Alberta government’s website.