Calgary is on the brink of lifting its month-long water restrictions following the successful refilling of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. This crucial infrastructure, which typically supplies around 60 per cent of the city’s water, had been offline since early March due to critical repairs on nine sections of the pipe. City officials are optimistic that normal water service could resume within days, pending successful water quality tests.
Infrastructure Repairs Underway
The City of Calgary has reported significant progress in repairing the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. After commencing repairs on March 9, city crews have worked diligently to address the issues identified in the pipe. Michael Thompson, the general manager of infrastructure services, stated, “We are now sampling and testing water to ensure it meets or exceeds regulatory requirements. These tests are ongoing and will continue throughout today.”
Thompson indicated that if testing results are favourable, the city could begin normal water distribution as early as Thursday, April 2. Once the water is confirmed safe for consumption, teams will synchronise the opening of valves along the main line and start up the pumps at the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant.
Temporary Water Quality Issues Expected
Upon resuming operations, residents may experience cloudy water as the system stabilises. “This is temporary and will typically clear within 24 hours,” Thompson reassured citizens, emphasising that the water remains safe to drink throughout this period.
As the pumps are activated, the city is aware of the potential for further pipe breaks due to the increased pressure. In anticipation of such occurrences, temporary barriers have been erected in the Bowness and Montgomery communities to safeguard homes and businesses, directing any excess water towards the Bow River.
City’s Water Supply Management
During the closure of the Bearspaw main, Calgary has relied heavily on the smaller Glenmore Reservoir, which has been sufficient to meet the city’s needs. On Sunday, water usage in Calgary tallied 500 million litres, with 12 million litres allocated to refilling the feeder main. This usage level has been deemed sustainable by the city.
Looking ahead, starting April 9, city officials plan to utilise a specialised device known as a pipe diver for internal inspections of the feeder main. This will require a brief cessation of water flow to facilitate safe inspection and testing of the system.
Why it Matters
The repairs and subsequent return to normal operations of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main are critical for Calgary’s water supply stability. Lifting the restrictions not only restores essential services to residents but also underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining robust infrastructure and ensuring environmental safety. As Calgary continues to grow, the management of its water resources will be pivotal in sustaining both its population and the surrounding ecosystem.