Summer Village of Silver Sands
Mailing Address:
Box 8, Alberta Beach, Alberta T0E 0A0
New Office/Courier Location:
2317 Township Road 545, Division No. 13
Lac Ste. Anne County, Alberta T0E 1V0
p: 587-873-5765 f: 780-967-0431
Aquatic Vegetation Removal - What You Need to Know
Unauthorized Aquatic Vegetation Removal Is Illegal
Removing aquatic vegetation requires prior approval by the Government of Alberta, Department of Environment and Parks. Unauthorized removal could be subject to fines and penalties. Here’s what the law says:
Under the Public Lands Act, it is prohibited to disturb the bed and shore of a water body without prior authorization.
Under the Water Act, an approval is required for an activity which affects a water body such as aquatic vegetation removal.
Aquatic vegetation removal may be permitted for individual use, public use or commercial purposes. Restrictions apply to ensure impact to the aquatic environment including fisheries and wildlife habitat are minimized. Application forms and guidelines can be found at Alberta Environment & Parks (search ‘Water Act Forms’).
Lake Stewardship and Aquatic Vegetation
Maintaining the health of Alberta’s lakes is everyone’s responsibility. Actions of individual lakeshore residents, decision makers and land users around the lake add up to make a huge difference! Here’s how you can do your part:
As much as possible, leave the lake in its natural condition; let aquatic vegetation grow and enjoy the many benefits they provide
Consider sharing docks, piers and boat lanes within your community to minimize shoreline disturbance, as well as save time and money.
Remember that general beach clean-up involving picking up plant debris that has washed up on shore is ok, but be sure to apply for an approval for any other activities involving aquatic vegetation removal.
Get involved with your local lake stewardship group to help promote beneficial management practices.
If you have any information regarding unauthorized removal of aquatic vegetation, please contact the Alberta Environment Hotline at 1-800-222-6514.
For more information, see the brochure link below:
Respect Our Lakes - Aquatic Vegetation and Lake Health
Related Documents:
The Law & the Lake
NEW - User Guide for Dock Permits - Government of Alberta 2019