A temporary diversion license for an oil and gas company drawing water from Cutbank Lake has been suspended. Tracie Moore with Public Affairs at the Alberta Energy Regulator says the 25 million litre license was issued to Canadian Natural Resources Limited on June 15th.
However, the AER later heard concerns that there may be Trumpeter swans nesting in the area. The agency investigated and couldn’t confirm the claims, but suspended the license to give CNRL time to contact Alberta Environment about any requirements.
“CNRL did voluntarily stop pumping before we even suspended the TDL,” adds Moore.
If they’re able to satisfy the requirements, the TDL could be reinstated. It was originally set to expire on September 30th. CNRL Public Affairs Advisor Julie Woo says they’re working with both parties in the next steps.
