WHEREAS the Surface Rights Act, enacted in 1972, has not had a major content review since 1983 and does not reflect the changes in oil and gas development or the changes to agricultural operations;AND WHEREAS the growth of oil and gas activity within municipalities has increased, significantly impacting agricultural production, the environment and quality of life;AND WHEREAS there is a need for a more timely document to address the issues of financial compensation, rights and responsibilities of both landowners and industry, long-term protection of our environment and improvement to our quality of life;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties urge the Government of Alberta to initiate a review of the Alberta Surface Rights Act, using a multi-stakeholder group.

In 1970 the Province of Alberta approved the Alberta Surface Rights Act, which has not had a major review of content since 1983. The last 20 years have seen a tremendous growth in the oil and gas industry within Alberta and major changes in the agricultural industry. There is a need for a provincial review by a multi-stakeholder group to address these changes and the resulting long-ranging effects.

The AAMDC has no resolutions currently in effect with respect to this issue.