Should Industrial Operations Follow New Decontamination Rules to Stop Whirling Disease?

Official title: Decontamination protocol engagement for industry and construction

Closed Regulations & Permits Environment & Climate Natural Resources
Alberta expanded its decontamination rules to cover industrial and construction work near water. Why? Whirling disease was spreading through the province's watersheds. The government asked industry whether the proposed cleaning instructions were practical while still protecting fish populations.

Why This Matters

Love fishing in Alberta? Whirling disease kills trout and can devastate fish populations. This consultation shaped rules that affect anyone working near rivers and lakes—from pipeline crews to road builders. Stronger protocols mean healthier fish for anglers.

What Could Change

The revised Decontamination Protocol became a license condition for all work in or near water. Companies now need Water Act, Public Lands, or Alberta Energy Regulator approval to work near waterways. They must follow specific cleaning instructions and keep decontamination records.

Key Issues

  • Are the proposed decontamination instructions feasible for industrial operations?
  • Will the protocols adequately protect against whirling disease and aquatic invasive species?

What Happened

An online survey was conducted with industry stakeholders in 2018 to gather input on the proposed decontamination instructions. The engagement has been archived and marked as completed.

Key Documents