Sand and Gravel Task Force Report
The Government of Alberta released the Sand and Gravel Task Force Final Report (2025), outlining 15 recommendations to modernize provincial regulation of sand and gravel operations on private land. The report focuses on streamlining approvals and clarifying provincial processes while maintaining environmental safeguards.
ABmunis has been involved in the task force since April of this year, represented by Mayor of Alberta BeachTara Elwood, ensuring municipal perspectives have been represented. While the report remains largely focused on provincial approvals, not all municipal input is reflected in the final recommendations.
Although the report primarily addresses approvals under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and the Water Act, several recommendations are relevant to our members. Notably, the report does not introduce immediate changes to municipal land use authority or require bylaw amendments. However, it signals the need for future efforts to better align provincial aggregate resource planning with municipal development decisions. Such coordination could influence long-term land use planning in areas identified as key aggregate reserves and may impact local autonomy.
The report also suggests the province could assume a primary role in approving pits considered high impact or of generational significance. While further guidance would be required, this approach could limit municipal input if not carefully implemented.
While streamlining and standardizing approvals may improve efficiency—particularly in application review—any changes must continue to account for local conditions such as environmental sensitivity, water risks, traffic impacts, and proximity to other development.
No immediate bylaw changes are proposed, but municipalities are encouraged to review the report and remain engaged as implementation moves forward. ABmunis will continue to be engaged in this work and will help amplify the voices of its members to ensure local autonomy is respected as these recommendations are implemented.
