Water restrictions

July 15 update:

• As The City of Calgary turns on an additional pump at the Bearspaw Reservoir today, you may notice some increased turbidity (cloudy water when you turn on your taps). Rest assured, your drinking water remains safe and exceeds safety standards. We are closely monitoring the situation and have a plan in place to manage it.
• Under level three water restrictions in Airdrie's waterworks bylaw, municipal and school fields may be watered one day a week.

July 11, water restriction update:

Under our Level 3 Water Restrictions, the City of Airdrie allows for the filling of recreational water bodies, including hot tubs swimming and wading pools with the issuance of a Water Use Exception Permit. Given the prevailing weather conditions and to align our requirements with those of the City of Calgary and regional partners, we have decided to waive this requirement until further notice.

July 6, noon water restriction update:
As part of the gradual return to service plan for the recently repaired City of Calgary water feeder main, the City of Airdrie has moved from Level 4 to Level 3 watering restrictions. This means that while some outdoor water restrictions will remain in effect, the following outdoor water activities are now permitted:

• The watering of plants, gardens, trees and shrubs using a handheld container, though the use of outdoor sprinklers remains restricted.
• The watering of new grass planting (sod or seed) and bulk water sales for the purposes of construction, including grading, compaction and dust control is allowed, subject to the issuance of a Water Use Exception Permit by the City.

Chinook Winds Spray Park set to open July 7

• With the drop to Level 3 water restrictions, the City will be reopening the Chinook Winds spray park. The spray park is only available during the summer, the overall water usage is minimal due to its recirculation system and it provides a reprieve for residents on warm days, allowing them to play and cool off, especially since outdoor sprinklers are still restricted.
  Although potable water is required to compensate for water loss due to evaporation, spillage onto landscaping and to backwash the filtration system, the spray park's recirculation system filters water to minimize the amount of potable water needed. The facility uses approximately 450 cubic meters of water annually. Parks staff will closely monitor water usage at the facility to ensure minimal impacts on our water distribution systems.

July 2, 12 p.m. water restriction update:

• The Genesis Place pool and aquatics facilities are set to reopen July 3.
• As The City of Calgary continues to stabilize the water distribution system, we are easing indoor water conservation measures effective today. However, we still need to be cautious as we return to normal water use. Please space out your laundry, showers, and dishwasher runs over the week to avoid overwhelming the system with large spikes in use. Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions remain in effect. We greatly appreciate your continued efforts in conserving water outdoors.

July 1, 1 p.m. water restriction update:

• The Genesis Place pool and aquatics facilities remain closed July 2. We will share an update July 2.

June 27, 1 p.m. water restriction update:

• The outdoor water ban is still in place, but the City of Airdrie has moved from a fire ban to a fire advisory. This change is due to reduced fire risk, because of greener grass/trees and rain in the near forecast. A fire advisory means no permits for burning will be approved.
• The Airdrie Fire Department will postpone hydrant training and other training that requires water usage until the water system returns to its normal state in accordance with Level 4 restrictions.
• Please keep fires small and only in designated fire rings or boxes. Never leave your fire unattended. Completely extinguish fires. If you have collected rainwater—soak it, stir it and soak it again until it is cool to the touch before leaving it. Learn more about fire pit regulations at www.airdrie.ca/firepits

June 25, 3 p.m. water restriction update:

• Yesterday, our water consumption was the highest it has been since June 17. This is a reminder we need everyone to continue their efforts to reduce water use, to allow us to meet our 25 per cent water consumption reduction target.
• When Municipal Enforcement receives a complaint, they investigate and educate residents about the outdoor water ban. So far, this approach has resulted in no repeat complaints or fines. However, repeat occurrences will likely result in fines. Please report any violations to 403.948.8888.

June 24, 3 p.m. water restriction update:

• Water consumption was 26 per cent less than before outdoor water restrictions were implemented on June 23.
• The City has set up non-potable water tanks for watering plants, flowers and gardens at the Airdrie Recycle Depot (21 East Lake Hill). Water is accessible during and outside of Recycle Depot hours via a connected hose placed outside the fence. Residents may bring their own buckets (up to 5 gallons) and fill them using the hose attached to the tanks. It is important to note the water is not safe for drinking/household use.

June 22, 11 a.m. water restriction update:

• This past week, water consumption averaged 27 per cent less than before outdoor water restrictions were implemented. Congratulations Airdrie, your efforts are paying off!
• The City has set up non-potable water tanks for watering plants, flowers and gardens at the Airdrie Recycle Depot (21 East Lake Hill). Water is accessible during and outside of Recycle Depot hours via a connected hose placed outside the fence. Residents may bring their own buckets (up to 5 gallons) and fill them using the hose attached to the tanks. It important to note the water is not safe for drinking/household use.

June 17, 3:30 p.m. water restriction update:

• Great work, Airdrie! Our community's efforts to reduce water usage are paying off. Yesterday, June 17, we saw a 25 per cent drop in water usage compared to normal levels before the outdoor water restrictions.
• The fire ban remains in effect due to the ongoing water crisis. This helps limit the need for fire suppression, conserving our water supply.
• The Genesis Place pool and aquatics facilities will remain closed up to and inclusive of July 1.
• Ice-arena activities resumed over the weekend. The water used to maintain the City’s ice arenas is being supplied from sources outside the Calgary water main break impacted region via a water truck.

June 16, 11 a.m. water restriction update:

• We understand how challenging this situation is with unknown timelines and changes to routines, but we’re proud of our community's efforts in reducing water usage by an average of 22 per cent. Let's keep up the good work and continue to support each other.
• The City will be doing main flushing along 8 St. for regulatory compliance. Flushing water lines is required to maintain a minimum chlorine residual of 0.1 mg/L, as per provincial regulations. The City explored options to collect the flushed water, but due to road infrastructure (medians), it is not possible.
• Even with rain in the forecast, the fire ban remains in effect due to the ongoing water crisis. This helps limit the need for fire suppression, conserving our water supply.
• Consider going to a car wash in another community, but remember it's against the bylaw to wash your car in your driveway. Let’s all do our part to limit water to essential use.

June 13, 4:30 p.m. water restriction update:

• Yesterday showed an increase in water use – creeping up to a 17 per cent reduction from our pre-water restriction usage. We need everyone to continue their efforts to reduce water use.
• Genesis Place will be closed throughout the weekend to help conserve water.
• We’ve had a few Municipal Enforcement complaints about residents taking water from stormwater ponds. Please don’t do this, as it could be a safety risk and is not allowed under Drainage Bylaw No. B-03/2014.

June 12, 11 a.m. water restriction update:

• Water consumption is down an average of 23 per cent since June 5, before the water main break and the outdoor water restrictions were announced.
• Calls to Municipal Enforcement about water usage have been minimal. M.E. used each opportunity to educate about the outdoor water ban, resulting in no repeat complaints or fines.
• We understand that the recreation closures are impacting athletes and that everyone is eager to get back into our facility. Airdrie's water is supplied by the City of Calgary, so we must mirror their water-related restrictions, including municipal recreation facility closures. Private facilities and those operated by third-party organizations are not bound by this agreement and therefore have more flexibility during this water shortage. Communication about the pool and arena closures, and their impacts, will be sent directly to user groups and posted here on Thursday morning, including decisions for the weekend.

June 9, 11 a.m. water restriction update:

• Water use has decreased since restrictions were put in place on June 6, but there remains a risk demand could outstrip supply if water use increases.
• Businesses and residents are strongly encouraged to continue to voluntarily reduce indoor water usage and to only utilize water for essential needs.
• Airdrie’s top 100 water users have been contacted and asked for a voluntary reduction in usage
• Please report any violations to 403.948.8888.
• Development activities may continue if using non-potable water. Contractors have been notified that they can bring water from unaffected areas (e.g. Cochrane, Okotoks) with proper documentation.
• City pools and arenas continue to remain closed until further notice.
• The City of Calgary has reported they have uncovered the pipe in need of repair.
• Airdrie remains under level four water restrictions and a fire ban.

June 7, 7 p.m. water restriction update:

• Airdrie Water Services staff continue to monitor the situation closely. The flow rates and water quality remain unchanged.

June 7, 10:30 a.m. water restriction update:

• The City of Calgary reported that yesterday there was a significant reduction in water use up until the afternoon and then it, unfortunately, increased in the evening to the point of depleting the reserves.
• If the current rates of consumption continue, there will not be enough water to meet basic needs.
• Water quality remains safe and Airdrie Water Services staff continue to monitor it very closely.
• The pool and arenas in Airdrie will remain closed over the weekend.

June 6, 3 p.m. water restriction update:

• All City-operated aquatic facilities will close at 4 p.m. Genesis Place fitness centre and non-water-based programs will remain available.
• All impacted water-based programs, classes, and lessons will be automatically cancelled and a credit applied to accounts. These closures are taking place in line with the City of Calgary, who are closing these facilities as a fire suppression contingency plan.
• All arenas will close at 4 p.m., except for those with dry pads (non-ice). Some ice bookings will be impacted, and groups will be notified.
• Municipal Enforcement is out in the community educating residents and businesses on level four water restrictions as a primary approach
• Businesses using large volumes of non-essential water are restricted. This includes water use for construction, exterior window washing, pesticide application and washing outdoor surfaces (except where required for health and safety regulations).
• Airdrie Fire Department has put training on hold to reduce water usage.

The average Airdrie resident uses 250 litres of water per day. That’s the equivalent of two full bathtubs of water per person - every day!

Save money and reduce water use on water bills using these water conservation tips.

The City of Airdrie is one of over 10 municipalities that rely on the Bow and Elbow rivers for their water supply. These rivers supply drinking water, provide habitats for plant and aquatic life and are also vital for agriculture, recreation, tourism and industry. With so much depending on these rivers, it is important that we manage our water consumption to ensure long-term sustainability for all water users. 

Reasons to save water:

• Save money - using less water will reduce your water bill, thereby reducing your sanitary charge and the other bill to heat your water.
• In a growing community, if everyone uses less water, you can reduce the frequency for costly new or upgraded water and sewer facilities and/or infrastructure.
• Using less water and energy will generate a smaller carbon footprint

For more information, check out these links:

alberta.ca/drought

Nose Creek Partnership

In our continuous effort to conserve water and protect our environment, the City of Airdrie has implemented several initiatives across various facilities. Here's a look at how we're making a difference:

Water Services:

• Leak detection program where technicians use headphones and computers to clamp onto lines and detect leaks. If any suspicious sounds are heard, they close the curbstop or valves to investigate further.
• Educating residents about the watering schedule. This is crucial in managing water consumption for long-term sustainability.

Genesis Place:

• Shower efficiency: 60-second push-button showers to minimize water usage.
• Leak repairs: Promptly fixing leaks in pipes to prevent water wastage.
• Pool management: Optimizing pool filter backwash times to reduce water use.
• Flow restrictors: Installed in showers to limit water flow.
• Dual flush toilets
• Efficient cleaning: Using pressure washers and auto scrubbers over traditional hoses for cleaning, alongside hose nozzles with auto shutoff to reduce water flow.

Airdrie Fire Department:

• Training efficiency: Adapting training protocols to minimize water use, saving thousands of litres per minute.
• Draft commander trailer: Facilitates pump testing and training while recirculating water, conserving up to 600,000 litres for pump testing and an additional 10 million litres annually for ongoing training.

Ron Ebbesen and Genesis Place:

• Timed showers: Showers have automatic shut off, preventing unnecessary water use.
• Ice resurfacing: equipped with water regulators to ensure minimal water use while maintaining quality ice surfaces.
• Future plans: The upcoming renovation of Ron Ebbesen Arena will introduce an adiabatic cooling tower, significantly reducing water usage by operating primarily on air.

Parks and public facilities:

• Efficient fixtures: Installing low-flow toilets, urinals and faucets across Chinook Winds Splash Park, Nose Creek Bathrooms and city fire halls to significantly reduce water consumption.
• Gradually replacing toilets with 1.28 gallons per flush models and updating shower heads to 1.75 GPM models for water efficiency at City Hall.

Watering according to the City of Airdrie's watering schedule is a great start to conserving water usage in the yard. Here are a few more ways to efficiently use and reuse water outside. 

Watering

• Ensure your downspouts drain into an area where water can be absorbed (like a nearby lawn, tree or flower bed).
• Water only when you need to. An established lawn only requires 25mm (about 1 inch) of water per week.
• Tip: Place a Frisbee upside down on the lawn in the area you are watering, once it’s full, turn off the sprinkler.
• Don’t water after 9 a.m. or before 7 p.m. Watering during the hottest part of the day can cause up to 30 per cent evaporation.
• Water only when needed. Saturate root zones and let the soil dry. Watering too much and too frequently results in shallow roots, weed growth, disease and fungus.
• Avoid watering on windy days.
• Use a garden-hose nozzle with an automatic shut off to save water.
• Water plant roots directly with drip or soaker hoses buried in mulch. Using a soil moisture sensor can help you monitor water use and ensure you only use what you need.
• Water timers (available at any garden centre) can be set before you leave the house in the morning - you won’t forget to turn off the water and the water won’t evaporate in heat of the day.
• Set your sprinklers to water plants and shrubs, not your driveway, sidewalk, or buildings.

Lawn

• Leave grass 3 inches long to prevent scorching and water evaporation.
• Grass-cycle. Mulch the grass and leave your clippings on the lawn, this provides extra nutrients and helps to retain moisture.
• Aerate your lawn. A well aerated lawn can absorb rain but a compacted lawn acts as a “hard surface” allowing little absorption.
• Add compost to the lawn to help retain moisture.

Garden

• Practice xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is landscaping or gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for extra watering.
• Consider replacing your lawn with drought-tolerant and locally adapted plants, shrubs, and trees.
• Use a rain barrel (or multiple). An average roof in Airdrie collects approximately 24,000 litres of rain annually - this could fill a rain barrel 96 times!
• Test your soil type. Type of soil determines how quickly water is absorbed. Watering more than soil can absorb causes runoff and waste.

Reducing the amount of water your family uses is as easy as becoming aware of how you use water, changing your water use habits and ensuring leaks are repaired.

• Reduce: Become conscious of the amount of water you’re using and look for ways to use less.
• Retrofit: Replace water-guzzling toilets and appliances with more water efficient, low flow models or retrofit existing appliances with water saving devices.

Checking your whole house for leaks can be as simple as locating your water meter and turning off all fixtures and appliances (don't forget the fridge ice maker). If the dial, sometimes called a low flow indicator, is still moving you either have a leak or something is still turned on.

If you've determined it's a leak, you can:

• try the leaky toilet test (described below)
• check all fixtures and appliances
• if none of the above are leaking and the dial is still spinning, you can call Water Services 403.948.8871 to request someone to listen for leaks