Real Estate Council of Alberta Fundamentals Practice Exam

What is required by the Water Act to divert water?

1. A water usage permit

2. A water license

3. A land use agreement

4. A pollution control certificate

The correct answer is: A water license

To divert water under the Water Act, obtaining a water license is mandatory. This license serves as legal authorization for individuals or entities to divert water from a natural source, ensuring that water resources are managed sustainably and responsibly. It allows the governing body to regulate the use of water and track allocations effectively. The necessity for a water license is rooted in the principle of water management, where the government needs to ensure equitable distribution of water resources amongst various users, while also protecting the environment. By requiring a license, the Water Act helps to maintain balance among competing interests for water use, prioritizing long-term sustainability. The other options do not fulfill the specific requirements set by the Water Act for diverting water. A water usage permit is not an official term recognized within the context of the Water Act, while a land use agreement pertains to land management rather than water diversion. Similarly, a pollution control certificate focuses on managing pollution rather than the legal authorization necessary for diverting water. Therefore, the correct answer, a water license, is essential for ensuring compliance with the regulations outlined in the Water Act.