Drought

Monitoring water supply and managing demand

Together, we can make every drop count

Current conditions - April 16, 2026

Water supply and demand conditions are currently normal and we're continuing to closely monitor our water distribution infrastructure. More information on the factors influencing these conditions is provided below.

With gardening season just around the corner, now is a great time to set yourself up to be water-wise outdoors. Taking steps now, like getting a rain barrel or choosing drought-tolerant plants, can help you save water when the growing season begins. We also encourage Calgarians to keep using water wisely indoors.

Our next update will be provided in May 2026.

Learn more about water restrictions

What we're monitoring

We monitor a range of factors to help ensure a reliable water supply for our growing city, and to guide decisions about whether water restrictions are needed and at what level.

Supply

Water supply is normal for this time of year.

  • Mountain snowpack is higher-than-average, so we expect to have a healthy supply this spring as mountain snowmelt begins.
  • On-stream reservoir storage in the Glenmore Reservoir is currently being drawn down to mitigate flood risk, but with a higher-than-average snowpack we have high confidence we’ll be able to refill the reservoir at the end of flood season.
  • River flows are within the normal range for this time of year.

What influences the amount of water available in on-stream reservoirs?

The volume of water available in the Bow basin’s reservoirs is actively managed to balance flood and drought risk using measurements and forecasts of snowpack, rainfall, and water use.

Demand

Water use is within the typical seasonal range.

Track Calgary’s daily water demand

What factors influence water demand?

The amount of water people typically use is driven by temperatures, rainfall and the current level of dryness.

Infrastructure

Water system is stable; Bearspaw South Feeder Main is being closely monitored.

Additional pipe reinforcement work was completed in spring 2026 to improve the reliability of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main; however, there is still a risk of failure until the new parallel pipe is in place.

There will also be another planned feeder main shutdown this fall as we bring the new replacement pipe online. Timelines for the planned shutdown have not yet been confirmed but will be shared with Calgarians as early as possible so people have time to prepare.

Top tips for saving water outdoors

Use a rain barrel

Rain barrels are a great way to capture and reuse rainwater in your yard.

Learn how to get a rain barrel

Reduce how often and how long you water outdoors

You can achieve this by cutting your watering time by 5-10 minutes less per session.

Skip a watering day

Healthy lawns only need about one inch of water per week to stay healthy. This includes rain too, so use a small container to track how much water your lawn is getting.

Water during cooler hours

Water your lawn and garden in the late evening or early morning to reduce evaporation.

Keep your grass three inches long

Longer grass keeps roots cool helping your lawn handle dry conditions.

More ways to save water

In your yard

During spring and summer, your water use can jump by 30 to 40 per cent because of outdoor watering activities. Prepare your yard for dry conditions and make it as water efficient as possible.

Learn about drought-tolerant native plants Get a rain barrel

At home

In Calgary, the average person uses about seven cubic metres (m3) or 7,000 litres of water per month. 

Find out the biggest water users inside your home and get tips and actions to take to achieve significant water savings in your bathroom, kitchen and laundry area.

Saving water in your home

At work

Practicing water efficiency makes good business sense. It helps lower operating costs, saves energy and demonstrates responsible water use. 

There are many ways businesses can conserve water. Learn how to lower your water use with sector specific tips, guides and resources. 

Water efficiency for businesses Learn how to become a water managed site

More information