🌊 Great news, Calgary! The city has moved to Stage 2 water restrictions, allowing limited outdoor watering. 🌿 Check out the new rules and keep your gardens thriving! 🌻🚿 #Calgary #WaterRestrictions #Stage2 #Alberta #Gardening #CalgaryNews
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Calgary Eases Water Restrictions to Stage 2: What You Need to Know
Calgary residents can breathe a sigh of relief as the city takes another step towards normalcy in its water usage policies. Mayor Jyoti Gondek announced on Thursday that Calgary is lowering its outdoor water restrictions from Stage 3 to Stage 2. This move comes as the city continues to recover from a major water main rupture, signaling progress in stabilizing the water supply.
What Stage 2 Means for Outdoor Water Use
Under Stage 2 restrictions, residents will now be permitted to use outdoor sprinklers, soaker hoses, and in-ground systems for up to one hour per week. The watering days will be determined based on residents' addresses, with even-numbered addresses allowed to water on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and odd-numbered addresses on Thursdays and Sundays.
Exceptions to the Schedule
Certain outdoor watering activities are exempt from the designated schedule, including watering with a hose equipped with a trigger spray nozzle, drip irrigation systems, and hand watering using cans or containers. Additionally, new grass seeding and watering for pesticide or fertilizer application are permitted under Stage 2 restrictions.
Activities Still Prohibited
Despite the easing of restrictions, some activities remain off-limits. These include outdoor washing of cars, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways, or walkways. Filling decorative fountains, except for bird baths, also remains prohibited, although professional window washers have been given the green light to resume their services.
Enforcement and Penalties
Officials emphasize that adherence to these guidelines is crucial, with fines starting at $600 for violations. It's important for residents to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations to avoid penalties.
Progress and Challenges Ahead
The decision to move to Stage 2 reflects positive developments in Calgary's efforts to stabilize its water infrastructure. Michael Thompson, the city's infrastructure services general manager, expressed optimism about the system's response to increased water flow, noting that no new issues have been detected since adjustments were made.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, officials are cautiously optimistic that Stage 1 restrictions could be implemented as early as July 22, pending continued progress and system stability. However, they emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring and caution as recovery efforts continue.
Addressing Infrastructure Challenges
Mayor Gondek acknowledged the broader implications of Calgary's infrastructure challenges, describing them as part of a larger, decades-long issue facing North American cities. She emphasized the city's commitment to conducting a thorough review of the water main rupture to prevent future incidents.
Commitment to Long-Term Solutions
"While we celebrate this step forward, we recognize that our work is far from over," Mayor Gondek stated. "We are committed to managing our infrastructure challenges comprehensively and leading discussions on infrastructure management across the country."
Conclusion
Calgary's decision to ease water restrictions to Stage 2 marks a significant milestone in the city's recovery from recent water infrastructure challenges. As residents regain the ability to tend to their outdoor spaces, the city remains vigilant in its efforts to ensure sustainable water management for the future. Stay informed and compliant with the latest guidelines to contribute to Calgary's ongoing recovery efforts.