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Voluntary water conservation encouraged this summer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 9, 2025

Airdrie, AB - Residents and businesses are being asked to take extra steps to reduce outdoor water use. Even though recent rain and snowmelt have temporarily boosted river flows and reservoir levels, demand is rising as summer temperatures climb. The long-range forecast remains hot and dry and with the Bow and Elbow Rivers supplying drinking water to more than 10 municipalities—including Airdrie—it’s essential we manage our shared supply carefully. Airdrie’s year-round watering schedule remains in effect. 

“Conserving water today helps protect our future supply,” said Mayor Peter Brown. “We’re asking Airdrie residents to do their part, like we are at the City. Every small action adds up when it comes to securing our region’s water.”

What you can do

  • Follow your designated watering days and times
  • Use rain barrels or watering cans instead of sprinklers
  • Sweep patios, sidewalks and driveways instead of spraying them
  • Water early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation
  • Let your lawn go golden—it’s drought-tolerant and will recover with rain
  • Consider lawn alternatives like micro-clover or xeriscaping

Why it matters
Airdrie is one of over 10 municipalities that rely on the Bow and Elbow rivers for drinking water. These rivers also support ecosystems, agriculture, recreation, tourism and industry. With so much depending on them, it’s essential that we manage our water use responsibly to ensure long-term sustainability. As demand increases, especially during hot, dry months, we must all do our part to stretch the supply into next spring.

How the City is doing its part
As part of our regular maintenance, we’re upgrading flush valves and faucets in multiple facilities with higher-efficiency models. We’ve also updated the Waterworks Bylaw to support conservation and follow the same watering schedule as residents, including limiting irrigation of City-maintained sports fields to three times per week.

Since 2019, the City has offered a popular rain barrel program that provides barrels to residents at a lower cost than retail. The program continues to see strong demand and is already sold out for 2025.

Any mandatory water restrictions will be shared on the City’s social media channels and at airdrie.ca/waterconservation.

 

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Media contact:
Communications, Engagement & Marketing
City of Airdrie
corporate.communications@airdrie.ca