Calgary’s water consumption has recently surged to 501 million litres, surpassing the city’s sustainable usage threshold of 500 million litres while essential repairs are ongoing on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. This spike in usage, categorised by city officials as entering the “risky red zone,” has prompted renewed calls for conservation efforts from residents.
Current Water Use and Restrictions
Officials indicated that exceeding the recommended water limit is particularly concerning given the current state of water supply infrastructure. The Bearspaw South Feeder Main, which typically provides approximately 60 per cent of Calgary’s water, has been offline since March 9 for urgent repairs following two significant failures in less than two years. During this downtime, the city has had to rely on the smaller Glenmore water treatment plant, which also serves surrounding areas such as Airdrie, Chestermere, and the Tsuut’ina Nation.
In light of the increased water consumption, Michael Thompson, general manager of infrastructure services, has reiterated the importance of conserving water. He highlighted that small changes in daily routines, such as reducing dishwasher or laundry cycles, can significantly contribute to water savings. “We aim to save 25 litres of water per person each day,” Thompson stated, emphasising that even a single less load of laundry or dishes could help achieve this goal.
Ongoing Repairs and Future Plans
The repairs currently underway involve reinforcing weakened sections of the feeder main with rebar, followed by concrete pours, which have already commenced. Thompson noted that valve replacements at the Shaganappi pump station are slated for completion this weekend, with initial refilling of one section of the feeder main beginning soon. This process is expected to utilise approximately 5 million litres of water.
Additionally, construction will soon commence on the final microtunneling shaft at 16th Avenue and 44th Street, with the work area established in a nearby parking lot. Traffic disruptions are anticipated during this period, which is expected to last until December.
The Bigger Picture
As the city grapples with these challenges, the ongoing replacement of the entire Bearspaw South Feeder Main with a new steel pipe remains a priority. This ambitious project is projected to be completed by the end of 2026. The combination of immediate repairs and long-term upgrades is crucial for ensuring a reliable water supply for Calgary’s growing population and surrounding communities.
Why it Matters
The current situation in Calgary serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between infrastructure reliability and sustainable resource management. As the city navigates repair challenges, the responsibility lies with both the local government and residents to conserve water and ensure that essential supplies remain available. With climate change placing additional strain on water resources, the emphasis on environmental stewardship and community action has never been more critical. The decisions made today will shape Calgary’s water security for generations to come.
