The B.C. government moved Tuesday to replace its century-old water law with a new Water Sustainability Act.
Environment Minister Mary Polak introduced legislation that she said would regulate groundwater use and strengthen water management.
The government plans to do more consultations on water pricing before announcing a new fee and rental structure.
“Water is our most precious resource, and this legislation will help ensure that our supply of fresh, clean water is sustainable to meet our needs today and for generations to come,” Polak said.
NDP critic Spencer Chandra Herbert expressed concern that the law appears to be “watered down” and that it still leaves the province’s water at risk. He said the government needs to charge sufficient fees so that it can enforce the law and protect the resource.
