Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, has announced that it will limit the outdoor water use of its residents and businesses to two hours per week, due to the ongoing drought conditions. This is the first time that the city has imposed such restrictions because of dry weather, as the water flows in the Bow and Elbow rivers are at their lowest levels in over a century.

According to Nicole Newton, the city’s manager of natural environment and adaptation, the water flows in the Bow River are the lowest since 1911 and the Elbow River since 2000. “There are some historical lows that are taking place … so we’re taking proactive measures,” she said.

The restrictions, which are under Stage 1 of the city’s water shortage response plan, will not affect the indoor consumption of water, but will only apply to watering lawns, trees or shrubs with sprinklers or hoses. Residents and businesses are instructed to water their outdoor plants only one day per week and only for two hours during that day. The designated days for watering are based on the address number, with even numbers on Wednesday and Saturday and odd numbers on Thursday and Sunday. The hours for watering are also limited to times of less evaporation, from 4 to 7 a.m., 9 to 11 a.m., or 7 to 10 p.m.

The restrictions do not prohibit watering flower gardens, trees and shrubs with a hand-held container or shut-off hose, or using sprinklers for recreational purposes. However, washing down sidewalks, windows and vehicles in driveways, as well as filling fountains is forbidden under Stage 1.

The city of Calgary said that it began reducing its own water consumption in July, by turning off fountains and irrigation systems in public spaces. The city also said that the restrictions are not only meant to address the current dry conditions, but also to prepare for the possibility of lower precipitation and mild conditions in the coming winter.

The city of Calgary’s website provides more information on the water restrictions and tips on how to conserve water. The city also encourages residents and businesses to report any violations of the restrictions by calling 311 or using the online service request.

: https://www.calgary.ca/uep/water/water-conservation/water-shortage-response-plan.html : https://www.calgary.ca/cfod/csc/311.html