Update July 17: Critical water main break affecting city-wide water usage

On Monday, we activated an additional pump at the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant and increased water flow through the feeder main to 70% of its maximum. This was a critical step toward increasing our water supply to a point where we can lower Outdoor Water Restrictions.

As of this afternoon, things are still progressing well, and we have not detected any new snaps in the steel wires that coil around each segment of pipe in the feeder main. We will continue to monitor the pipe overnight and make a final decision on moving to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions early tomorrow morning.

If we can move to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions, it will allow activities such as using a hose and nozzle or a sprinkler for up to one hour a week on a set schedule.

Water use

Yesterday’s water use was 557 million litres, similar to Monday, and still within manageable limits. We expect water use to increase as temperatures rise.

Water use July 17

Although our goal is to reduce Outdoor Water Restrictions, for now we remain in Stage 3. This means watering by hand with a can or other container is required, except in specific circumstances like watering new grass or sod. If you know someone who needs help watering by hand, please consider becoming a Water Angel by offering your help.

The best times to water are early morning or late at night to minimize evaporation and reap the biggest benefits for your plants.

Next steps and timing

If we are able to move to Stage 2 on Thursday, we will watch how our system performs on Friday and over the weekend. If conditions remain stable, we could move to Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions as early as Monday, July 22.

While we are optimistic based on how the pipe has been performing, there remains a risk of new wire snaps or other unforeseen issues that could delay our progress. We are proceeding cautiously, with around-the-clock monitoring and crews and equipment on standby.

We will continue to keep you updated on our progress and any potential setbacks as we work to ease restrictions and restore full water service to Calgarians.