HIGH RIVER, AB: Effective immediately the Town of High River is returning to Water Conservation Level 2. This means that lawns can be watered twice a week and swimming pools and other recreational facilities can once again be filled.
“The water treatment plant is again fully operational and the reservoir is now at capacity. Moving back to Water Conservation Level 2 is normal for this time of year,” said Albert Flootman, Director of Engineering, Planning & Operational Services for the Town. “Limiting the amount of water we use is always a good idea as it limits demands on Town infrastructure, it’s environmentally friendly and it saves residents money.”
During Water Conservation Level 2, watering of lawns is only permitted between 5-10 a.m. and 7-11 p.m. on specific days for each area of town:
· Southwest – Monday and Thursday
· Southeast – Tuesday and Friday
· Northeast / Northwest – Wednesday and Saturday
All residents must comply with the Town’s water conservation bylaw, unless they have been granted a special exception by the Town. Permits to allow watering of new lawns can be downloaded and printed at http://www.highriver.ca under the “Residents” then “Water Conservation” tab. Completed permits can be dropped off at the operations Town Shop (640 7 Street N.W.) or Town Office (309B Macleod Tr. S.W.) for processing.
The Town determines water conservation levels based on several factors including the condition of aquifers and wells, ensuring that there are sufficient water reserves available in case of fires, environmental sustainability and resource protection, water quality standards, and infrastructure limitations.
Other tips for conserving water include:
· Limit lawn watering to 1 inch (2.5 cm) a week and ensure that sprinklers are aimed properly to avoid watering your driveway or sidewalk.
· Install a rain barrel to collect water from downspouts to be reused to water lawns, gardens and flowerbeds.
· Install low-flow toilets and use a front-load clothes washer
For more information visit www.highriver.ca or call operations at 403-652-4657.