Development of a memorandum of understanding between Alberta Environment (AENV) and the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB, now ERCB) to enhance collaboration for the protection and management of groundwater by William A. Tilleman, Q.C., J.S.D., Chairman, Alberta EUB and C. Peter Watson, P. Eng. Deputy Minister Alberta Environment, December 20, 2007
The Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) and Alberta Environment (AENV) have a history of working together to ensure that groundwater is protected from oil and gas development. Collaborative efforts cover a wide range of activities involving policy, operational, and information and communication activities. As there is a growing public perception that energy activities are impacting groundwater, AENV and the EUB support development of a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU) to guide future operations and partnership opportunities.
1) Continue to develop and support an improved cross-ministry approach to respond to water well complaints, including
- further work on a documented investigation process and field guideline,
- a mechanism to clearly report results to the landowner and the public …
5) Invest in seamless digital data management and accessibility tools….
8) Proactively develop approaches to protect and manage groundwater related to development of unconventional gas resources:
- Integrate shallow gas, CBM, and groundwater management approaches.
- Continue with the enhanced EUB identification, tracking, and management of produced water from wells with perforations above the BGWP with links to the AENV water diversion application process. …
The EUB and AENV commit to working together to provide accessible and timely information to the public on groundwater issues and to address public education needs regarding the impacts of groundwater arising from the oil and gas industry. [Emphasis added]