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4mo ago

Lethbridge Draws Down Reservoirs as River Debris Forces Treatment Cutbacks

Reduced output from a mud‑clogged Oldman River intake has lowered potable supply, with the city expecting the river to crest Wednesday evening.

As river levels rise in Lethbridge, officials urge water conservation.
Herald photo by ALEJANDRA PULIDO-GUZMAN The Old Man River can be seen flowing at a higher level than usual Monday afternoon following heavy rain over the weekend.
Herald photo by ALEjandra pulido-guzman Due to high flow levels at the Old Man River, the city is asking residents to stay away from the river until levels go back to normal

Overview

  • City officials are asking residents and businesses to limit nonessential water use because the Lethbridge Water Treatment Plant is producing less water than current demand.
  • The city is meeting shortfalls by drawing down storage reservoirs while crews monitor treatment processes that are strained by mud and debris washed into the Oldman River.
  • Wastewater operations are running 24/7 and using high‑flow procedures to handle unusually large inflows caused by recent heavy rain and runoff.
  • Emergency responders warn the public to stay away from unstable riverbanks and to keep children and pets clear of the Oldman and St. Mary rivers as flows rise.
  • Officials say tap water remains safe to drink, they urge residents not to stockpile water, and they note that voluntary conservation in prior summers cut usage by about 10–15 percent, a model they hope the public will follow now.