MD of Taber moves forward with irrigation expansion plans

Posted on May 7, 2026 by Vauxhall Advance

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Municipal District of Taber (MDT) is taking significant steps to secure irrigation water rights as part of the Bow River Irrigation District’s (BRID) ongoing expansion project. During the April 28 council meeting, MD administration discussed a formal application for 91 acres of BRID irrigation water rights and to identify the most suitable MDT-owned lands for irrigation.

Background on the BRID
Expansion

The BRID Board of Directors approved a 25,000-acre irrigation expansion in December 2025, following a successful plebiscite of water users in February 2025. This expansion aims to enhance agricultural productivity in the region. The initial offering of 15,000 acres of water rights opened for preliminary applications earlier this year, with MDT submitting applications for eight quarter sections of land.

On April 16, MDT received confirmation from BRID that it had been allocated 91 acres of water rights. At a cost of $5,000 per acre, the total investment would amount to $455,000, with a $9,100 deposit required by May 25 to secure the allocation. It has been confirmed through correspondence with the BRID that the MDT can designate water acres that were not identified on the initial pre-application.

Council Recommendations and Next Steps

To meet the May 25 deadline, MDT administration has recommended that Council authorize the selection of the most effective MDT lands for irrigation. This decision will consider factors such as soil suitability, pipeline easements, and collaboration with local landowners.

Additionally, MDT has received informal inquiries from ratepayers interested in purchasing the 91-acre allocation.

Financial and Strategic
Implications

The acquisition of irrigation water rights represents a significant investment for MDT, with potential funding options including reserves or debenture financing. The expansion could lead to increased rental revenue from irrigated lands, contributing to the economic sustainability of the municipality.

The BRID’s structured pricing model allows irrigators to pay for water rights in installments, with the first $2,000 per acre due upfront. Soil testing will be required within one year of application approval to ensure irrigation suitability.

Broader Opportunities

The BRID’s expansion plan includes an additional 10,000 acres of water rights to be released upon completion of the Deadhorse Reservoir project.

An Ongoing Initiative

As the May 25 deadline approaches, MDT is poised to make strategic decisions that will shape the future of irrigation and land management in the district.