Since the city encouraged water conservation in August, it reports there has been a 20 per cent reduction in water consumption. (Photo: LNN)

By Joel Mendelson

City of Lethbridge provides update on water supply

Nov 1, 2023 | 5:10 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The City of Lethbridge is advising the public that although there is no current danger of running out of drinkable water in the city, the levels are much lower than they typically are.

Officials said the volume of the Oldman Reservoir is the lowest that it has been since the early 1990s.

Doug Kaupp, General Manager of Water and Wastewater Services said, “The City of Lethbridge is monitoring reservoir levels and works with the provincial government to assure our community water supply.”

He continued, “There is no current risk, but we continue to plan and prepare and certainly acknowledge the need for significant precipitation in the months ahead.”

Officials said that the City of Lethbridge is regularly in contact with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (AEPA) in regard to water levels. As of October 20, 2023, it is reported that the instream flows exceed the requirements for water at the City’s intake.

What's Happening in Lethbridge this weekend: May 17, 2024

17h ago

Week-in-review: A spring storm, Whoop-Up Days entertainment and housing for seniors

May 11, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this weekend: May 10, 2024

May 10, 2024

Since the City encouraged water conservation in August, it reported that there has been a 20 per cent reduction in water consumption.

READ MORE: City of Lethbridge encouraging water conservation

Kaupp said, “We want to thank our residents and businesses for their proactive efforts to help reduce our overall water usage.”

He continued, “It has made a big difference and will continue to help through the colder months.”

NEXT STEPS

City of Lethbridge staff are dredging the water treatment plant intake in order to remove sediments which could hinder the intake’s hydraulic capacity.

Officials said this makes it more difficult for the water to freeze during low flow conditions in the winter. Staff will also continue to prepare possible water conservation measures.

READ MORE: City of Lethbridge encouraging water conservation

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.