a dense and growing population the effects of climate change an existing arid climate in much of the basin and growing demand among competing users coupled with the need to ensure sufficient water to protect aquatic and ecosystem health all place significant pressure on the basin further compounding the challenge is the requirement that of the annual natural flow must pass to saskatchewan a neighbouring province in addition the province evolved its water allocation policies and the associated legislation culminating in the proclamation of a new water act in pursuant to the water act the right to divert and use water is granted by a licence or registration under the water act