WHEREAS geophysical exploration activities (seismic) may affect aquifers and water wells (drinking quality water) of rural residents and communities;AND WHEREAS landowners, where seismic activity is occurring, have the opportunity to request the testing of their water wells prior to, and following, seismic/exploration activities;AND WHEREAS at present, no certification is required of the industry responsible for the testing of water wells in relation to seismic activities;AND WHEREAS at present, guidelines and procedures exist through Alberta Environment for the testing of flow rates of water wells in relation to water well drilling, but Alberta Sustainable Resource Development does not have its own guidelines for seismic activities;AND WHEREAS the industry responsible for water well testing needs to be certified and a standardized procedure needs to be developed so that water well testing is consistent, and equipment used for testing is disinfected and cleaned prior to entering water wells;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties urge the Government of Alberta to regulate the industry and certify companies that would perform water well testing in relation to seismic activity and energy exploitation;AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the Government of Alberta introduce a regulated procedure for performing water well testing.

The Leduc County Water Management Committee, at their June 14, 2004 regular meeting, approved this resolution with respect to certification of water well testing and procedures relating to seismic activities. This resolution has been endorsed at the Pembina River District meeting and is presented for consideration and support to the fall convention of the AAMDC.

The AAMDC has no resolutions currently in effect with respect to this issue.However, Resolution 14-03F, endorsed at the fall 2003 convention, urges the provincial government to require anyone drilling through aquirfers to use treated, potable water to prevent contamination.

The provincial government has advised that guidelines and standards for water well testing have been discussed with stakeholders in the past, but to date, have not proceeded to development. The AAMDC will continue to push for timely development of guidelines and standards for the industry.