Calgary's urgent repairs on the Bearspaw south feeder main started at 12:01 a.m. on Monday morning, Aug. 26, kicking off level four outdoor water restrictions in the region.
Francois Bouchard, Calgary’s director of capital priorities and investment, urged Calgary water users, which includes Airdrie, to reduce their water use by 25 per cent. Calgary officials announced earlier this month that 21 areas of weakness along the Bearspaw south feeder main require attention and repairs due to a rupture two months ago.
Bouchard noted in an Aug. 26 update that the shutdown of the Bearspaw feeder main begins on Aug. 27 and will continue through to the end of September. Repairs will begin on Aug. 28.
"This means during the repair period, we will be relying on the Glenmore water treatment plant to supply most of the water to Calgary, Strathmore, Airdrie, Chestermere, and Tsuut'ina Nation," Bouchard said. "It remains critical that we balance demand with the available water supply to ensure that we have water available to meet essential needs, such as water for firefighting."
This need requires a temporary return to stage four water restrictions, not allowing any outdoor water use. Residents and businesses are also asked to limit their indoor water use.
"Our target for water use is 450 million litres each day, between now and the end of September," Bouchard said. "In the summer, water use is typically around 600 million litres per day."
With use sitting at 554 million litres on Saturday and 656 million litres on Sunday, Bouchard continued, levels may have been higher due to Calgarians preparing for water restrictions.
Bouchard noted that if the target is consistently exceeded, a boil water advisory may be put in place. Higher demand means the underground water storage reservoirs will run dry, leading to a drop in water pressure, which keeps water safe, Bouchard said. Without water pressure, contaminants can enter the system.
A boil water advisory could last several months until enough water is available in the spring to safely flush and clean the system.
The City of Airdrie asks residents to reduce water use by the same measures.
"While these measures are in place, we will not be requesting the closure of businesses or recreational facilities such as pools and arenas," their website states. "Our goal is to resume regular water flow while ensuring the long-term stability of Airdrie’s water supply. Your cooperation is crucial to making these necessary repairs successful."
The Airdrie Fire Department has paused training to help conserve water. The bulk water stations will be closed. The Chinook Winds spray park will be closed. As well, the parks department will be using non-potable water to water trees, shrubs and flowers.
