The Henderson Spray Park. The City of Lethbridge is taking steps to reduce water consumption. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

City of Lethbridge sets goal to reduce water use by 20% by 2030

May 9, 2024 | 11:20 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The City of Lethbridge has announced an ambitious new plan to lessen how much water it uses.

The municipality has unveiled its Water Conservation Plan and Strategy. In response to potential droughts this year, officials look to reduce overall water use by 20 per cent by 2030.

At the city-level, they plan to reduce water consumption by 10 per cent. Several departmental measures are being taken, including:

• Cutting back on how often the outsides of City fleet and transit vehicles are washed.
• Adjusting street sweeping practices to reduce water use, where possible.
• Flushing hydrants only as needed for Health and Safety/operational requirements.
• Reducing water usage when washing bridges, signs and concrete medians.
• Turning off decorative fountains while voluntary measures and water restrictions are in place. (Public drinking water stations will remain available.)

Other departments, including Parks & Cemetaries and Recreation & Culture, will participate in water reduction initiatives as well. Some actions include managing irrigation and the maintenance of green spaces.

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Manager of Engineering and Environment Mark Svenson says, “The community may notice a bit more dirt on City buses, or that some public spaces may not be as green as past years. We are striking a balance between conserving water and meeting operational needs.”

City departments will track water conservation and reduction efforts over the coming months. City Council will receive updates and make any further needed decisions.

Director of Infrastructure Services Joel Sanchez is asking the public to do their part to reduce water consumption.

“We’re asking the community to voluntarily reduce water use, so the City must also ‘walk the walk’,” says Sanchez. “We are adjusting operational practices, where practical, to conserve water.”

Additional proposed steps will be considered at the May 14 council meeting.

The full Water Conservation Plan and Strategy can be read on the City of Lethbridge website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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