Should farms and oilsands pay more for water?

While a shortage of water isn't imminent, overall demand by natural resources sectors is increasing. This is Muskrat Falls on the Churchill River in Labrador. (Greg Locke/Reuters)

Water consumption by some Canadian industries could swell by an surprising amount in the next 20 years, according to a new report.

Between 2005 and 2030, water intake by agriculture is forecast to increase by 54 per cent, while intake by oil and gas is expected to rise 96 per cent, led by oilsands use.

The report, entitled "Charting a Course -- Sustainable Water Use by Canada's Natural Resource Sectors," says governments also need to develop protocols for transparent access to water data.

It goes so far as to suggest additional charges for industrial water use, or the creation of tradable water permits.

"A water charge seems the most likely option of the two, at least in the shorter term, and can be viewed as a transitional policy option," the report says.

Should the agriculture and industrial sectors be charged for water use? What is the best way to balance the sustainable and economical use of water? Let us know in the comments section below.


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