The Town of High River has moved to Water Conservation Level 2 for the summer months.

The Town's Manager of Operational Services, Eugene Lund, says it's simply a move to make sure the Town maintains it's sustained supply of treated water.

"Normally after the May long weekend we see an increase in water usage, and usually it's on account of people doing more activities, that type of thing that require a little bit more intensive water use. And we need to balance the water use we have with what we're able to produce through our treatment facility."

The restrictions apply mainly to lawn watering which is permitted only on certain days and times depending on where you live in Town.

It doesn't apply to filling things like swimming pools or hand watering gardens or trees and shrubs.

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

At Level 2, residents can still fill swimming pools and other recreational facilities. Hand watering of trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens is permitted at any time.

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 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.) 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.