Dams

This interactive map shows the approximate location of dam structures in northeast B.C. built, operated and maintained by oil and gas permit holders, and regulated by the Commission. Oil and gas companies typically store fresh water in various water storage structures such as dugouts, water reservoirs, tanks, c-rings and other similar structures in preparation for using the water in their activities. Some of these qualify as dams under the Dam Safety Regulation (DSR) of the Water Sustainability Act (WSA), which took effect on Feb. 29, 2016. Except for minor dams (dams with live storage volumes of Since 2014, Commission staff have had authority to issue water licenses for oil and gas purposes and starting in 2016 staff were given authority to approve and inspect dams to ensure they are in compliance and will remain safe to the public and environment. The Regulator employs dam safety officers and engineers who ensure proper oversight of the structures, identifying any instances of non-compliance and issuing enforcement orders as required to correct deficiencies. Follow-up inspections are conducted by the safety officers to confirm compliance, and orders and contravention determinations are posted on the Enforcement & Compliance section of the website