REPAIRED: Critical Water Main Break | Updated Sept 22
Important Links
(Updated: September 22, 2024)
As of September 22, 2024, The City of Calgary has rescinded Stage 4 water restrictions, effective immediately.
The feeder main has been filled, water quality tested and we have successfully reconnected the main to the rest of the water distribution system.
We understand how difficult and disruptive these past four months have been, and we couldn’t have made all the necessary repairs without all of your sacrifice, patience, and support.
To the residents of Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, Tsuut’ina Nation, and Strathmore, THANK YOU!
(Updated: September 18, 2024)
The final stages of construction continue to proceed well.
16th Avenue has re-opened to vehicle traffic; however, there are some localized lane closures near 43 Street N.W. to accommodate bringing the feeder main back into service and completion of curb work.
We anticipate reopening 33 Avenue N.W. east of 83 Street this afternoon and west of 83 Street later this week.
We started filling the feeder main on Tuesday morning. This will take about three days to complete. Once the feeder main is filled, we will perform water quality testing. When we’ve confirmed the water is safe, we will move to stabilizing the system, including reconnecting the feeder main to the rest of the water distribution network.
It is anticipated that water restrictions will be lifted sometime this weekend. These timelines could change due to weather or if extra time is needed to ensure our water quality meets or exceeds all quality standards.
We're almost at the finish line, but until the feeder main is reconnected, it's important that we keep reducing our water use. Thank you to all Calgary residents, businesses, and those in surrounding communities who continue to save water.
(Updated: September 4, 2024)
Over the past several days, The City has been testing a new configuration of existing pumps to redirect water flow. Our team is now confident that this new configuration solution, which enables us to move an additional 35 million litres of water through the system each day, is sustainable for the remainder of the repair work, This moves our water consumption target up to 485 million litres per day.
Outdoor water restrictions and indoor water saving measures are still required to meet the new target and keep water use under 485 million liters per day.
The graph below shows the sustainable water use zone. The yellow zone occurs at a rate of 485 million litres to 500 million litres of water. In this zone we have difficulty replenishing our underground storage reservoirs to ensure we have enough water for essential services like firefighting and hospitals. We also can’t take the pumps offline for maintenance as we are pushing the system to its maximum capacity. The red zone occurs at a rate of 500 million litres and above, which is unsustainable and puts us at the greatest risk of running out of water before the feeder main is brought back into service.
Please continue to adhere to Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions, and focus on reducing indoor water use by:
Reduce toilet flushing
Keep showers to three minutes or less
Only run the dishwasher + laundry with full loads
(Updated: August 26, 2024)
A reminder that the return to Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions and limiting indoor water use begins on Monday, August 26 and is expected to run through most of September.
To facilitate urgent water main repairs, we will need to shut down the Bearspaw South Feeder Main and temporarily stop the flow of water through it from August 26 to the end of September.
During this time, we will be returning to Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions and asking Calgarians and businesses to limit their non-essential indoor water use to reduce the strain on our water supply.
Calgarians are being asked to limit their indoor water use by taking the following three actions:
Reduce toilet flushing
Keep showers to three minutes or less
Only run the dishwasher + laundry with full loads
Additionally, under Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions, the following is prohibited:
Watering lawns, gardens, flowers, trees, or shrubs with City water
Using outdoor sprinkler systems
Filling outdoor pools, hot tubs, fountains or water features
Washing outdoor surfaces, including windows, building exteriors, sidewalks, or driveways
Washing your car using City water
Using City water for construction purposes such as grading, compaction, or dust control
We sincerely thank you for your ongoing effort, understanding, and support throughout this process.
For more information, including answers to FAQ’s and ongoing updates, visit: calgary.ca/16AveWaterMain
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will Indoor Pools, Arenas, or Recreation Centres be closing?
No. City of Calgary and non City of Calgary recreation centres, indoor pools, and arenas are allowed to remain open during the upcoming Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions. The City has asked all facilities to take measures to reduce their indoor water use by 25 per cent.
Outdoor pools typically begin closures the first week of September and can continue to operate provided they can access a non-City water supply to support pool top ups. Outdoor water facilities like spray parks will be ending their season a few days earlier than normal, closing August 25th.
Will there be a fire ban?
At present, the fire department is not anticipating issuing a fire ban for the duration of the repair; however, if the situation changes due to weather or unanticipated supply limitations, a need for one may emerge.
How can residents and businesses be kept up to date about construction activities in the repair area?
Teams have been in the area going door-to-door to connect with businesses and residents. Anyone wishing to sign up to receive construction updates via email can do so by visiting calgary.ca/watermainbreak
Can I water my vegetable garden?
Yes, but only using non-potable water. Collected rainwater, household grey water, or river water are all non-potable water sources approved for use during Stage 4 restrictions.
You may consider collecting and using non-potable water by:
Collecting rainwater in containers or barrels.
Collecting grey water from showers, baths, dishwashing or cooking. Put a bucket in your shower to collect clean, cold water while you’re waiting for it to heat up.
Collecting river water from one of The City’s water pick-up locations. (More info on this below.)
There may be some risks associated with using non-potable water on food crops. See YardSmart for more information on risks and precautions.
Will residents have access to non-potable water pick-up stations?
Yes, residents and businesses will have daily access to non-potable water, which can be used for watering trees, garden plants, and flowers. Hours of operation will be 4pm to 7pm daily for residential use and 5am to 7pm daily for commercial use.
Non-potable water will be available for collection from three sites beginning August 26th:
Bankside - Fish Creek Park (This will be the preferred location for City crews and contractors)
Why can’t these repairs wait until the fall when most people are done gardening?
The ongoing deterioration of the pipe requires immediate repairs to help ensure and maintain water service until a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is implemented.
Timing was also influenced by the need to reduce reliance on the Glenmore Treatment Plant before winter water storage becomes critical in September. These repairs are planned, preventive measures to maintain the pipe’s integrity while we finalize a long-term rehabilitation plan.
You can read the full list of FAQ’s on the City's webpage here.
Thank you for your ongoing efforts, understanding, and support throughout this process.
(Updated: August 9, 2024)
As part of our plan in repairing the original site of the feeder main break, we employed a device called a PipeDiver in early July to learn more about the pipe’s condition. The PipeDiver inspected 10.4 kilometers of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main and allowed us to reach areas of the pipe we hadn’t previously been able to access.
It was announced last week that the results of our PipeDiver inspection, combined with previous testing and ongoing acoustic monitoring, revealed approximately 16 sections of pipe that require urgent repair to prevent the risk of another break, including some new hot spots. These repairs are critical to ensuring that Calgary's water supply is maintained through the winter.
To facilitate these urgent repairs, we will need to shut down the Bearspaw South Feeder Main and temporarily stop the flow of water through it from August 26 to the end of September.
During this time, we will be returning to Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions and asking Calgarians and businesses to limit their non-essential indoor water use to reduce the strain on our water supply.
Until repairs start on August 26, Calgary will remain under Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions.
(Updated: July 24, 2024)
As of July 23, we’ve moved to Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions.
Effective immediately, the following activities are allowed:
Using a sprinkler, soaker hose or in-ground sprinkling system (including testing) for a maximum of two hours per week on set days.
Even-numbered addresses may water on Wednesday or Saturday.
Odd-numbered addresses may water on Thursday or Sunday.
Calgarians are asked to water in the morning or in the evening to avoid the hottest period of the day and minimize evaporation.
Watering gardens, plants and shrubs by a hose attached to a trigger spray nozzle/watering wand or drip irrigation with an automatic shut-off is allowed on any day/time.
As always, people are encouraged to water each plant slowly and at its base, and check soil moisture both before and after watering to determine if water is needed.
The following activities remain prohibited under Stage 1 water restrictions:
Washing driveways and sidewalks.
Washing windows or exterior building surfaces, unless it is done by a business licensed to perform this service.
Filling fountains and decorative water features, except for bird baths, which are allowed.
Washing your car or other vehicles with water in the driveway or street.
Learn what is allowed under Stage 1 at calgary.ca/restrictions.
(Updated: July 22, 2024)
Since we began reintroducing the feeder main into service, we've been carefully monitoring its performance and moving cautiously to make sure our water supply can meet demand at each step of the way.
This cautious approach proved beneficial as last night, we began experiencing some issues at both the Glenmore and Bearspaw Water Treatment Plants, including pumps at water intakes.
We believe these issues are related to the current heat, and while they are not major, they will require investigation and maintenance. While the maintenance is completed it may impact the amount of water we are able to supply. In addition, with hotter than anticipated temperatures this week, we expect water demand to remain high.
While we had hoped to be able to move to Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions today, we have decided to remain at Stage 2 for now.
Our modeling indicates that we can still meet Stage 2 demand but may not be able to meet the increased demand if we move to Stage 1, which allows for two hours of sprinkler use each week instead of one.
We understand the eagerness to ease Outdoor Water Restrictions, but it is important that we continue to move cautiously to make sure we have enough supply. We will reassess whether we are ready to lower Outdoor Water Restrictions by mid-week once we have more information.
(Updated: July 18, 2024)
Some sprinkler use and hose watering now permitted as City moves to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions
Today, we achieved another major milestone in the recovery from the Bearspaw South Feeder Main break, by moving from Stage 3 to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions. This change allows for more outdoor water use, including watering with a hose and spray nozzle, and some sprinkler use according to set days and times.
On Monday, we began increasing water flow through the feeder main to 70% of its maximum. This was done cautiously to minimize pressure spikes that could cause additional stress on the pipe walls. So far, the pipe is performing well and this has given us confidence that the system is ready to manage higher water demand.
Effective immediately, the following activities are allowed under Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions:
Some sprinkler use on certain days and times:
Water with a sprinkler for up to one hour per week on a set schedule
Sprinkler schedule is based on address
House numbers ending with an even number can use a sprinkler Wednesday or Saturday
House numbers ending with an odd number can use a sprinkler Thursday or Sunday
Sprinkler use is allowed in the morning or later in the evening to avoid evaporation during the hottest part of the day.
The following is allowed at any time:
Watering with a hose that has a trigger spray nozzle or drip irrigation
Hand watering using a watering can or other container
Watering new grass with a sprinkler or irrigation system
Water use for pesticide or fertilizer application
The following is not allowed at any time:
Outdoor washing of cars, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways or walkways, Note: manual window washing by certified companies is allowed, other window washing is not.
Filling fountains or other decorative features, except for bird baths
These restrictions continue to apply to all customers who use City water. This includes all Calgary residences, businesses and City operations.
Next steps
We will continue to monitor the pipe and water demand on Friday and through the weekend. If things remain stable, we could move to Stage 1 Outdoor Watering Restrictions as early as Monday, July 22.
For more information and a resource of frequently asked questions visit calgary.ca/restrictions.
(Update: July 15, 2024)
Since we started bringing the pipe back into service, we have been closely monitoring for any signs of further issues. We know there are other areas of structural weakness in the pipe, and our recent monitoring has provided valuable insights into its condition.
We understand the eagerness to lift Outdoor Water Restrictions. The key to being able to do this is increasing the flow of water through the feeder main. The pipe is full of water right now, but it is not moving as quickly as it usually does. Currently, the flow is at 55% of its maximum, and at this rate, we need Stage 3 Outdoor Water Restrictions in place to ensure our water demand doesn’t exceed supply.
By using pumps to increase the speed of water flow, we can increase the amount of water we can supply to Calgarians each day. Our plan involves gradually increasing the flow while monitoring the pipe stability. Once we achieve a 70% flow rate, we will be able to move into Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions.
Starting today, we will turn on an additional pump at the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant, which will increase the flow through the pipe. If all goes well, we expect to move to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions on Thursday, July 18 and potentially to Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions on Monday, July 22.
Moving from Stage 3 to Stage 2 Outdoor Water Restrictions will allow activities such as using a sprinkler for up to 1 hour per week and using hoses with spray nozzles. Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions permit sprinkler use for up to 2 hours a week, among other things.
(Updated: July 11, 2024)
Stage 3 Outdoor Water Restrictions remain in place.
To help people seeking relief from the heat all outdoor pools, including backyard and kiddie pools are now allowed.
For spray park and wading pool status and locations visit calgary.ca/sprayparks.
For information on community outdoor pool locations and operating hours, visit calgaryoutdoorpools.ca.
Visit Calgary.ca/heat for locations, tips and resources for keeping cool and staying safe in the heat.
Water demand continues to gradually increase, which is normal in hot weather. July 10 demand was 567 million litres.
We are currently able to supply enough water to meet this demand with Stage 3 Outdoor Water Restrictions in place.
(Updated: July 6, 2024)
The City took another big step in its recovery from the Bearspaw South Feeder Main break today moving Calgarians from Stage 4 water restrictions to Stage 3 and lifting the fire ban.
Under the Stage 3 restrictions, hand watering of plants with a watering can or container is allowed. Outdoor watering with a sprinkler or hose is not allowed.
For businesses, water for construction purposes (including dust control, grading, and compaction) is also allowed.
More information on water restrictions can be found by visiting Calgary.ca/restrictions.
The impacted pipe is now operating at 55% capacity as pressure has gradually continued to increase, testing on the line continues. With the progress made to this point, The City will deactivate the Municipal Emergency Plan and ramp down the involvement of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency in this incident and the Emergency Operations Centre will close.
Closing River Water Pick-Up Locations
Now that Calgarians can hand-water from their own sources, The City is announcing that we will be closing its residential water pick-up locations later today and reducing commercial pickup locations. The Ogden location for river water collection for the construction industry through Stage 3 Outdoor Watering restrictions.
Fire Ban lifted
In response to the move to Stage 3 Outdoor Watering restrictions, The City has also announced the lifting of the fire ban that was implemented for safety reasons. We continue to urge Calgarians to use fire safe practices when handling outdoor open flames, including barbeques and backyard fire pits and when disposing of smoking materials. Calgarians can also inform themselves on rules and fire pit safe practices by visiting Calgary.ca/firepits.
Public Pools + Splash Parks to Open
Public outdoor pools and City of Calgary spray parks will receive an exemption from Stage 3 restrictions and will be able to re-open beginning today, more information including reopening timelines will be made available on Calgary.ca. Some splash parks, including Rotary Park, Canmore, Variety, Somerset and Valleyview are expected to be open to the public on the afternoon of Sunday, July 7.
Recreation Program Updates
We have resumed most City services that use water indoors such as pools, ice rinks and recreation centres. Most additional aquatic amenities such as indoor play structures, hot tubs, steam rooms, waterslides and kiddie pools are back in.
Street Sweeping Update
Community street sweeping will resume Monday, July 8 and is expected to be completed later in July. Sweeping helps reduce water pollution by preventing the run-off of sanding materials and debris into our storm water system.
Schedule look-up and notification signups are available at Calgary.ca/sweep.
Branching Out Tree Pickup Dates
New pickup dates have been confirmed and emails have been sent with information on rescheduled pick up dates to everyone with a confirmed tree registration (please ensure you check the email address you used to register for your tree and check your junk/spam folders as well). Please only come to pickup your tree on the date and time outlined in your email. Visit the Branching Out Website for more information.
Keeping Calgarians Informed
Our daily live media updates are now completed. We will continue sharing developing news and important updates with Calgarians regularly. Please visit Calgary.ca and our social channels to stay informed. You can also sign up to receive City of Calgary Newsroom updates at newsroom.calgary.ca.
(Update: July 2, 2024)
Indoor water-saving measures have eased for residents and businesses. Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions remain in place. Fire ban remains in place.
We have now started to gradually flow water from the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant through the feeder main and into the rest of the water network, and we are slowly stabilizing our system.
As of Tuesday, July 2, indoor water-saving measures have eased for residents and businesses. This means:
Residents can resume normal indoor water use.
To help our system adapt, please be mindful of your use for the first few days. If you have been waiting to catch up on laundry or other activities that consume a lot of water, consider spacing it out through the week.
Businesses can resume normal indoor water use. This includes indoor pools and car washes, which had previously been asked to close.
Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions remain in place for residents and businesses.
While we can currently supply enough water for indoor use, we are keeping Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions in place right now as we continue to stabilize our system.
We will carefully monitor supply and demand and make changes to the Outdoor Water Restrictions when we are confident that the system is ready.
The State of Local Emergency remains in place.
(Updated: June 28, 2024)
URGENT CALL TO REDUCE OUR WATER USAGE
Our water usage has been trending upwards, and reached a concerning high yesterday. We’re close to being on the other side of this crisis, but please, we all need to recommit to lowering our water use until the system is fully restored.
Yesterday, June 27, our water consumption was at 500 Megalitres (one Megalitre = one million litres). It is imperative that we remain under our threshold so demand does not outstrip supply.
(Updated: June 26, 2024)
Today it’s expected that crews will begin paving over the recently completed repairs at hotspots along 16 Avenue N.W. as Calgary braces for the next critical phase of return to service.
As work is completed above ground, the City is preparing to fill the 16 Avenue feeder main pipe,
Later today, crews will begin the process of filling the newly repaired section of pipe. Filling the feeder main line is a delicate process that requires care and attention. Crews slowly pressurize the pipe and fill with water. As the pipe fills, we’re checking for additional breaks and monitoring pressure levels.
Once the feeder main is filled, we then move onto flushing the pipe, water will be released through fire hydrants and dechlorinated before reaching the river. This water will be sampled by Alberta Health Services.
We are still days away from our earliest timeline in the best-case scenarios,
The City has developed contingency plans should we encounter additional issues, and we are prepared to respond rapidly.
CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS
Calgarians are encouraged to enjoy Canada Day festivities on the weekend. Celebrations around Calgary will be capped off with a fireworks finale, launching from Stampede Park.
Our partners at the Calgary Stampede have made sure that our show can go on by offering onsite safety oversight, collaboration with the Calgary Fire Department for all necessary safety measures, and access to non-potable water sources for their equipment,
For more on all The City’s planned Canada day celebrations, visit Calgary.ca/canadaday
(Updated: June 24. 2024)
Two commercial pick up sites for non-potable river water were opened for use on Friday, one at West Baker Park and the other in Ogden, for businesses doing work that requires dust control, compacting of dirt or gravel surfaces and establishing new landscaping projects.
The City has expanded this program to make non-potable river water available to all Calgarians. It can be picked up free of charge from 7am-7pm daily at the following locations:
This water can be used for garden vegetables, flowers, outdoor and indoor plants. Please wash your vegetables thoroughly before consuming. This water can also be used for handwashing, if it is boiled for one minute, and cleaning, but not for surfaces or dishes in contact with food.
You must bring your own container to hold the water so choose your container wisely. Water is heavy and our City staff are not permitted to load containers into your vehicle for safety reasons. To ensure there is a fair opportunity for all Calgarians, you can take up to 25 gallons or 100 litres of water.
The City is looking to expand this program to include additional locations. More details will come in the next couple of days. Please visit Calgary.ca for pick up locations, as they become available, and hours of operation.
We are reminding all Calgarians that the water pumped from the river is non-potable and not safe for drinking.
(Updated: June 21, 2024)
The City of Calgary has entered the first phase of supplying Calgary’s construction industry with non-potable water so they can get back to work during this building season.
We are working closely with local contractors to open two locations on the Bow River to provide non-potable water for construction work only. This water is not safe for drinking and not for the general public. It is intended temporarily for commercial construction and landscaping activities as a way to support this industry through our current Stage 4 water restrictions.
Those eligible for accessing this non-potable water includes contractors working on capital projects for The City of Calgary and regional customers; contractors with active development agreements or permits; commercial landscaping companies; bulk water station users; and those with hydrant connection unit agreements.
We are looking at options to expand availability to other users in the future.
(Updated: June 20, 2024)
With the arrival of two new lengths of pipe from San Diego early yesterday morning and excavation complete at the sites of five hot spots, work on repairing the water feeder main break is progressing faster than expected.
City of Calgary Infrastructure Services General Manager Michael Thompson shared that the construction timeline has been advanced to return to reducing water restrictions by July 5.
(Update: June 17, 2024)
Repairs have been completed on the original feeder main break near 16 Avenue N.W. and Home Road, and construction is now under way on the remaining five hotspots at two new construction area locations on 16 Ave.
Due to the hot spots, we sourced additional sections of pipe to support feedermain repairs. Three sections of the pipe are in Calgary being prepped for install and two more sections are enroute from San Diego by truck and set to arrive this week. On Friday we communicated that an additional 3-5 weeks were required to support the repair of the hotspots. This timeline remains, and we are committed to providing an updated construction schedule by the end of the week.
Meanwhile, we want to thank Calgarians once again for continued water conservation over the weekend. You held the line on water consumption, and we exceeded our water reduction target, seeing a decrease of 27 per cent.
Important festivals, conferences, and events will go ahead, including the Calgary Stampede. We are working with the Stampede and other event organizers to ensure they don’t impact our water use during this critical time. These events will look slightly different this summer, but they will proceed.
Regarding concerns about water conservation during Stampede, we've reviewed the five-year daily water demand trend during the festival, and there is no significant uptick in demand noted. This is due to two factors – during Stampede we know many Calgarians are travelling elsewhere for their summer vacation. We also know the water use is weather dependent and as we know from past years, early July can bring big storms reducing Calgarians need for outdoor watering.
(Update: June 15, 2024)
At 8 a.m, June 15, The City of Calgary declared a State of Local Emergency as we deal with a water feeder main break impacting our city’s water supply. This was done to ensure we are prepared for all eventualities in the drive to have this water feeder main restoration work done as quickly and safely as possible.
The State of Local Emergency allows for more coordination of action, and is an indicator of the aggressive approach The City is taking to restore full water service for all customers as quickly as possible.
(Update: June 14, 2024)
Following further investigation of our water feedermain, significant additional damage has been found and other sections of the pipe now also need to be repaired. This will result in a lengthier delay in returning Calgarians to normal water service than was anticipated, as with the extensive damage repairs are now estimated to take an additional three to five weeks to complete.
The City is looking at strategies to do these repairs simultaneously and are exploring everything we can possibly do to do this faster and we hope to revise this timeline. The repair is The City’s top priority and speed is of the essence, however we are balancing that with the availability of resources materials, and the safety of our teams.
To guarantee the integrity of the pipe and ensure secure water service for Calgarians, The City of Calgary has made the prudent decision to fix the locations of concern along the line while the pipe is bare and dry. Fixing the initially identified problem without addressing these other trouble spots carries a high risk of another major rupture and potential impacts to public safety.
This will result in asking Calgarians for water-saving measures for longer than expected to ensure our emergency reserves don’t run dry.
NEIGHBOUR DAY
Tomorrow is Neighbour Day, our city’s annual day to join with neighbours and show our community spirit. Now more than ever we recognize that events are an important way for Calgarians to connect with our community. Event organizers are generally approved to proceed as long as they adhere to water restrictions currently in place and limit and monitor discretionary water use.
Visit calgary.ca/neighbourday for more information on events taking place.
BYLAW AND ENFORCEMENT
We continue following up on calls to 311 for water misuse. Since the event began, we have received 1,536 calls.
Officers have issued more than 900 warnings (465 verbal warnings, 461 written warnings), and two tickets to contractors associated with construction work.
There have been 98 calls for fire pits, resulting in 41 verbal warnings, 13 written warnings and one ticket.
The Calgary Fire Department has comprehensive plans and alternative operating procedures to supplement water supply if necessary. There are multiple non-hydrant firefighting strategies (including plans, personnel, apparatuses, alternate water sources and equipment) in place to meet the challenges we are facing with this emergency.
ROADS AND MOBILITY
Detours are in place as 16 Avenue remains closed at home Road N.W.
The City of Calgary thanks affected residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation during this time.
For more information and a resource of frequently asked questions visit Calgary.ca/16avewatermain or contact 311.
(Update: June 13, 2024)
Some somber news this morning.
Overnight, there was a safety incident as replacement work was being done at the water main site. As a result, two workers were injured. Our thoughts are with all the crew members impacted by this incident. It has made an already challenging situation event more difficult. We’re deeply thankful to everyone working tirelessly to see this situation through.
Additionally, our water usage is creeping back up. We’ve reached a critical point where we do not have enough water to cover citywide demand. This is particularly concerning for our emergency services (fire and hospitals to name a few.)
Please- now is the time to double down on our conservation efforts and recommit to limiting our personal household water use.
(Update: June 10, 2024)
After extensive testing by Alberta Health Services, the boil water advisory for Bowness has been lifted. All other water restrictions remain in place until further notice.
Thank you to all the affected residents and businesses for their patience.
(Update: June 9, 2024)
Today, crews succeeded in cutting into the pipe so the damaged portion can be removed. The pipe will be prepped for repair, while completing many technical tests to understand what other work is needed. This is a very critical stage and will take some time to complete.
A section of pipe was removed near the break, and this is the first step to remove the compromised sections of the pipe which we aim to complete by the end of the day.
After the assessment is complete and we have all the parts we need to complete the repair, crews will start installing the new section and completing the welding. Some repair work can continue to proceed concurrently with the condition assessment.
The ability to get water to all communities at this time has been severely compromised due to this pipe break. Calgarians are making a difference by saving water, allowing our reservoirs to replenish during this critical time. Since the beginning of the event, we’ve seen a 27 per cent drop in water consumption. Thank you and please keep up the great work!
It is still too early to determine the a timeline or when water restrictions will be lifted, however, going forward, daily updates will be provided by Mayor Gondek at 8:30am, followed by media availability with Emergency Officials at 2:00pm.
Visit calgary.ca/16AveWaterMain for regular updates and the most current information.
(Update: June 8, 2024)
Significant progress is being made as The City of Calgary continues repairing a large water main break in the Bowness and Montgomery area.
Crews reached the damaged section of the critical water main yesterday and overnight continued clearing water, dirt and debris to assess the site of the leak. This critical water transmission line has severely impacted the supply in Calgary’s reservoirs and the ability to move water across the city.
Today, crews are preparing the feeder main for inspection to determine the next steps and expect to begin cutting out the damaged section of pipe.
Despite the progress being made to start repairing the break, Calgarians are being asked to continue doing their part to reduce water use. All outdoor water use is banned under Stage 4 Water Restrictions. In addition, Calgarians are asked to restrict/aim to reduce water use by 25% - Delay using your dishwasher and washing machine. Limit shower times and keeping baths shallow. Turn off humidifiers and ice machines Turn off water tap when not in use.
BOIL ADVISORY AND WATER WAGONS
The Boil Water Advisory remains in place for all residents and businesses in Bowness. This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
For more information on Boil Water Advisories and using water safely when an advisory is in place, resources for homeowners and businesses is available here: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/eph/Page15235.aspx#boilwater
FIRE BAN AND FIRE SAFETY
The city-wide fire ban is in effect until further notice until water supply issues are no longer deemed a risk to health and safety. Fines for violating a fire ban range from $500 to $5,000.
Fire pits, open fires, gas or propane fire pits, tiki torches, patio heaters are prohibited. Barbecues are allowed. For more information on Calgary fire bans and fire safety advisories, visit calgary.ca/firebans or contact 311. Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.
CITY SERVICES IMPACTED AND FACILITY CLOSURES
For a full list of impacted City services, please visit Calgary.ca
Road restrictions remain in place while crews continue to work on the watermain break. We encourage Calgarians to avoid the impacted area around 16 Ave. and Home Rd. N.W.
BOWNESS COMMUNITY ASSOICATION IS IN NEED OF BOTTLED WATER DONATIONS
For our neighbours in Bowness, the Boil Water Advisory remains in effect. The Bowness Community association is currently accepting 24/7 donations of bottled water to the front door of the community hall - 7904 43 Ave NW. Please help if you are able. Learn more or get in touch: mybowness.com
(Updated June 6, 2024)
The City of Calgary is issuing a Boil Water Advisory for the community of Bowness, implementing Stage 4 outdoor watering restrictions for all of Calgary immediately and calling for Calgarians to limit non-essential indoor water use.
On the evening of Wednesday, June 5, The City discovered a large water main break in the Bowness and Montgomery area. The break is on a critical transmission line that enables us to move water across the city.
The City has enacted its Municipal Emergency Plan and currently, we do not have an estimate for how long the Boil Water Advisory or the water restrictions will be necessary. This issue is temporary, and our crews are working 24/7 to complete the necessary repair work.
The Boil Water Advisory requires all residents and businesses in Bowness to bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute prior to any consumption, including:
· drinking
· brushing teeth
· cleaning raw foods
· preparing infant formula or juices
· making ice, etc.
Alberta Health Services and The City of Calgary will continue to monitor the situation, including sampling and testing of the drinking water to ensure it is safe for consumption. This advisory is being issued out of an abundance of caution.
This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
For more information on Boil Water Advisories and using water safely when an advisory is in place, resources for homeowners and businesses is available here: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/eph/Page15235.aspx#boilwater
To share the water currently available, The City has also invoked a mandatory outdoor watering ban and we are asking Calgarians to limit their non-essential water use by taking these additional actions:
· Delay using dishwashers and washing machines
· Limiting shower times and keeping baths shallow.
· Turning off humidifiers and ice machines
· Turn off water taps when not in use.
Businesses using large volumes of non-essential water, such as laundromats and car washes, are being asked to reduce water use. Businesses using water to deliver a product or service that is life sustaining for people, animals and plants are exempt. Other exemptions include any businesses that must use water to meet health code standards, such as hospitals and restaurants.
The City of Calgary is also reducing its non-essential water use.
We are working with our partners in Alberta Health Services and Alberta Environment & Protected Areas to ensure drinking water continues to meet or exceed regulatory and water quality standards as we make the required repairs.
As Calgarians set out to begin their day, we would encourage them to avoid the impacted area around 16 Ave. and Home Rd. N.W. and to plan some extra time around their commute as there may be traffic impacts as a result of this incident.
We will provide updates when information is available via local media, social media, 311 and Calgary.ca/wateroutages, and will inform Calgarians when Stage 4 water restrictions are no longer needed.
We will update this page as more information becomes available.