As Calgary gets set to return to the strictest level of outdoor water restrictions, the city is urging residents to plan and take advantage of using potable water while they can.
Officials announced last week that the city will move back to Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions with repairs required along the Bearspaw South feeder main after more than a dozen trouble spots were detected by a pipe diver device.
The major pipe in northwest Calgary ruptured in early June and forced Calgarians to undertake a series of water conservation measures, from not watering lawns to taking shorter showers.
The new round of Stage 4 restrictions will take effect on Aug. 26, and are expected to last until Sep. 23, giving crews the chance to make the necessary repairs. It will mean a total ban on watering lawns and gardens during that time.
Up until the pipe is turned off, residents can continue to water with sprinklers, or a hose attached to a spray-nozzle during the allowed days and times.
Residents and businesses will also be asked to curb their indoor water usage during the time the feeder main is turned off.
Businesses are being asked to find ways to cut 25 per cent reduction of their regular daily water usage during the time the pipe is turned off. The city says no businesses will be asked to close, including car washes.
Non-potable water stations will once again be set up along the river for people to use when the tighter restrictions take effect, according to officials.
The mayor says in the spring the city could add a liner or a sleeve to the pipe to strengthen it or dig alongside it and built an entirely new one.
With files from The Canadian Press
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