Critical water main repair
Bearspaw South Feeder Main repair
In early August, we determined that several further urgent repairs along the Bearspaw South Feeder Main would be required.
These began on August 26 and are expected to run until the end of September. While the repairs are underway, our water supply is limited.
We are asking Calgarians to take steps to save water so that we have enough for essential uses.
What you need to know:
- Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions are in effect. No outdoor potable water use is allowed.
- We're asking Calgarians to reduce their indoor water use.
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Latest updates: August 31, 2024
- On Friday, August 30, water use was 492 million litres, up from 487 million litres on Thursday. We continue to exceed our daily water use target of 450 million litres.
- To enforce Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions, Bylaw is actively working to follow-up on calls for outdoor water misuse and will be issuing tickets in the next few days. The fine for outdoor watering under the Water Utilities Bylaw is $3,000. Checking and turning off your sprinkler system is a simple but crucial way to help.
- Please be aware no City crews are going door-to-door doing these checks. Bylaw officers will be in clearly marked uniforms and carry proper identification in the event an official inspection related to water is required. Contact Calgary Police Services if you receive an unexpected visit from someone claiming to be a City employee who is not in a clearly marked uniform with appropriate identification.
- Construction work continues through the weekend on multiple repair sites along the feeder main. On 33 Ave N.W. and at Shouldice Park, we have started construction activity on two more pipe segments, bringing the total to 11. Excavation is complete at two repair segments and this weekend we expect to start installation of rebar and form work for concrete pouring. We will also continue preparations for work on additional sites next week.
Top three ways to help save water
During the repairs, no outdoor water use is allowed. We're also asking Calgarians to focus on taking the following three actions that we know make the biggest difference to household water consumption.
Reduce toilet flushing. Flush only when needed.
Reduce toilet flushing. Only flush when needed.
Keep showers to 3 mins or less
Keep showers to three minutes or less.
Do laundry with full loads only
Only run the washing machine and dishwasher with full loads.
Daily water demand
The daily water demand numbers shown below include the water used by all Calgary residents and businesses along with our regional customers (the City of Airdrie, the City of Chestermere, Tsuut’ina Nation and the Town of Strathmore).
Traffic impacts
Throughout the repair period, some road closures will be necessary as we complete repairs to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main.
For more information on current road closures, visit calgary.ca/trafficinfo
33 Ave construction information
Below is the information being shared with residents and community members:
Additional information
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Learn about the outdoor water restrictions, indoor water restrictions and the restrictions on businesses.
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We'll have our next live update on Sunday, September 1 at 2 p.m.
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Read our frequently asked questions about the feeder main repair and water conservation for residents and businesses.
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See where we are conserving water in parks, golf courses, pools and other City services.
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Some City services are affected by the water main break.
Flushing mains after repairs is essential
As part of federally and provincially legislated water quality requirements, The City is required to maintain water quality after completing repairs.
- Flushing ensures high-quality drinking water and protects our water distribution system.
- Flushing must occur after a water main is repaired so that any sediment and contaminants that may have entered the pipes are removed.
For safety reasons residents should keep a respectful distance from workers and allow them to focus on their work.