Drought

Water Efficiency and Drought

Together, we can make every drop count

Updated Oct. 25, 2024

As we head into winter, Calgary has a stable water supply and drought conditions remain ‘Normal’ on Calgary’s drought dial.

What we’re seeing

  • Bow watershed reservoir storage upstream of Calgary is normal for this time of year.  Glenmore Reservoir storage is normal.
  • Bow River and Elbow River flows in Calgary remain within the normal range for this time of year.

Water supply in the Bow and Elbow Rivers – a year in review

After experiencing a very dry summer in 2023, the Calgary region started the year with a higher-than-average risk of drought persisting. After a slow start, snowpack improved throughout late winter and spring, and significant spring rains improved our watershed conditions back to normal.

Although July brought extended periods of extreme heat and very little rain, August brought some relief with wet weather and lower temperatures across our region.

We are currently seeing good water supply conditions heading into late fall and winter. We will continue to monitor conditions in the Bow and Elbow River Basins over the winter, keeping a close eye on mountain snowpack as it develops. Our next update will be provided in February 2025.

Current drought status

How you can help conserve water

Save water in your yard and garden

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.

Outdoor water saving tips Learn about drought-tolerant native plants

Save water in your 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

Save water 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

More information

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