Drought

Monitoring water supply and managing demand

Together, we can make every drop count

Current conditions - August 10, 2026

Water supply remains strong, and while water usage has increased with the recent dry weather, demand remains normal for this time of year and is not posing any concerns for the water system.  More information on the factors influencing these conditions is provided below.

A new, year-round lawn and landscape watering schedule is in effect, helping to spread water use more evenly throughout the week. As summer continues, using water wisely outdoors can make a big difference. Simple steps, like collecting rainwater, and watering only when needed, can help reduce outdoor water use while keeping your yard and garden healthy.

Our next update will be provided in September 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 strong for this time of year.

  • On-stream reservoir storage in the Bow and Elbow River watersheds is at a normal level for this time of year, providing reliable water supply conditions for Calgary.
  • 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 capable of meeting current demand; The 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 October as we bring the new replacement pipe online. Stage 4 outdoor water restriction and indoor conservation will be required. Get updates at calgary.ca/savewater.

Water schedule

Lawn and landscape watering schedule

This schedule sets regular days and times for watering your lawn with a sprinkler or automatic irrigation. This will help protect our water system during peak summer demand and to make sure there’s enough water for the things that matter most.

Know your three watering days

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