To facilitate repairs on the water main serving Beaumont, the City is implementing a mandatory water ban for municipal operations and voluntary restrictions for residents to reduce non-essential water use, effective July 22, 2024.

Conservation

Alberta is experiencing drought and water shortages. Find tips on energy and water conservation as well as resources and answers to frequently asked questions.

Water Conservation Advisory Effective July 22, 2024

To facilitate repairs on the water main serving Beaumont, the City is implementing a mandatory water ban for municipal operations and voluntary restrictions for residents to reduce non-essential water use, effective July 22, 2024. This proactive measure will ensure the community has water for drinking, cooking and hygiene, fire protection, and other essential uses. Here’s what you need to know:

To support the Water Conservation Advisory while considering residents, the Four Seasons Spray Park hours will be adjusted to 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. This change ensures the park remains accessible during peak temperatures and after work hours while aligning with our conservation efforts.

For more information on the Water Conservation Advisory, click HERE.

Energy conservation tips

How to save energy all year

  • Wash your clothing on the cold water cycle instead of hot water.
  • Unplug non-essential appliances and chargers when not in use.
  • Look into upgrading older appliances and electronics with Energy Star rated products.
  • Use clotheslines instead of hot air dryers after washing clothing.
  • Use CFL (compact fluorescent) or LED (Light-emitting diode) light bulbs rather than traditional models.
  • For information on daily water quality (for water softeners), visit Epcor.

Water conservation

During these times, our top priority is to ensure adequate water supply for essential services like drinking and firefighting.

To maintain this water supply, throughout the spring and summer months, you may see a reduction or halt to non-essential water usage such as water-based recreational activities. To reduce the likelihood of such measures, we need your help in conserving water.

Even small changes to water usage habits can make a big impact. Follow the tips below to contribute to the fight against drought!

Conserve water, collect rain

Embrace the sustainability of rain barrels as they help you conserve water and combat drought. Positioned beneath downspouts (roof leaders), they efficiently collect rainwater runoff from your rooftop. Experience the benefits firsthand:

  • Save money by utilizing free rainwater for gardening.
  • Nurture healthier plants with rainwater’s essential nutrients like nitrogen.
  • Preserve water for everyday household tasks like washing cars or cleaning patio furniture.

Where can I get rain barrels in Beaumont?

There are two opportunities for residents to acquire rain barrels:

  1. Beaumont and District Agricultural Society Rain Barrel Sale 
    • This annual sale happens in May
  2. Beaumont Home Hardware – based on availability

Note: These sales are not managed by the City. If you have questions regarding purchasing rain barrels, please reach out to the respective organization.

Beginner
  • Turn off tap: Keep the water tap off instead of letting it run while brushing your teeth or shaving.
  • Fix leaks: Regularly check faucets, pipes and toilets for leaks and repair them promptly.
  • Shorter showers: Aim for shorter showers. Even reducing your shower time by a couple of minutes can save several gallons of water.
  • Full loads only: Wait until you have a full load before running the dishwasher or washing machine.
Intermediate
  • Install water-saving devices: Upgrade to low-flow showerheads, low-flush toilets, and install faucet aerators to decrease water consumption by up to 40%!
  • Reuse water: Use leftover water from boiling or rinsing vegetables and fruits to water your houseplants or clean your home.
Advanced
  • Water-efficient appliances: If you are looking to replace your appliances, opt for water-efficient models. Look for appliances with ENERGY STAR and WaterSense labels.

Beginner
  • Mulching: Use mulch in your garden to retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
  • Lawn aeration: Punch holes in your lawn about six inches apart so water will reach the roots rather than run off the surface.
  • Driveway cleaning: Use a broom to clean your driveway and sidewalks, instead of a hose.
Intermediate
  • Rain barrels: Set up rain barrels to collect rainwater for outdoor use like water plants or washing your car.
  • Drought-resistant plants: Consider drought-resistant plants for your landscaping and gardens.
Advanced
  • Greywater recycling: Explore greywater recycling systems to reuse water from showers and sinks for outdoor use.
  • Smart irrigation: Invest in smart irrigation systems that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Helpful Resources

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Water Efficient Appliances and Fixtures (EPCOR)

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How You Can Protect Your Water (EPCOR)

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Simple Water Calculator (EPCOR)

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Apartment Water Usage Calculator (EPCOR)

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Outside Your Home Resources (EPCOR)

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Inside Your Home Resources (EPCOR)

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Energy tools and tips – Fortis Electricity Saving Tips

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Energy tools and tips – Epcor Water Efficiency and Conservation

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Energy tools and tips – Enmax Solar Power Option

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Sustainable clothes drying options – Solar Drying Systems

Frequently asked questions

While there won’t be a dedicated sale event, residents are encouraged to explore alternative avenues for acquiring rain barrels. Consider participating to contribute to water conservation efforts in our community

Our water is supplied by the Capital Region Southwest Water Services Commission (CRSWSC). The CRSWSC transmission main flows from the CRSWSC Boundary Station on the west side of the QEII Highway east into Beaumont’s Main Reservoir on the southeast corner of 50 Avenue and 57 Street. The Commission purchases its water directly from EPCOR Water Services in coordination with the Regional Water Customers Group (RWCG). EPCOR supplies the CRSWSC from two major water treatment plants, E.L. Smith and Rossdale, both located in the City of Edmonton and sourcing water from the North Saskatchewan River. The CRSWSC is one of nine members that form the RWCG. All nine members work closely together to ensure all communications and transactions with EPCOR Water Services are of a united front. The Commission works closely with the RWCG for long-range planning, rate negotiation and coordination of water supply.

The Commission works diligently to ensure clean, safe drinking water is provided to all customers. It closely monitors and controls flow rates, chlorine residuals, pressures and reservoir levels for each of its customers. The Commission endeavours to comply with all regulations and standards set out by Canadian regulatory agencies. It’s the goal of the CRSWSC to set standards and guidelines for each of its customers to model themselves after.

The flow rate is based on what EPCOR can provide to the CRSWSC system while following the agreement with the RWCG.

The CRSWSC’s one transmission main flows from the Boundary Station on the west side of the QEII Highway east into Beaumont’s Main Reservoir on the southeast corner of 50 Avenue and 57 Street.

We have five reservoir cells. There are three cells at the Main Reservoir (southeast corner of 50 Avenue and 57 Street) and two cells at the St. Vital Reservoir (northeast corner of 50 Avenue and 44 Street). Our total available storage is 17,700 m3 (17,700,000 Litres). The only way to fill the St. Vital Reservoir is to pump water from the Main Reservoir, which is done during non-peak times. Pump upgrades are required at the St. Vital Pumphouse to allow pumping of water through the system during peak periods. As more development occurs we will require additional storage. This information is identified in the Water and Wastewater Systems Report (Reviewed with Committee of the Whole on March 20, 2018). See the Utilities & Storm Management Plan page.

If there is a flow restriction from the CRSWSC based on availability from EPCOR, there is nothing that can be done by Beaumont to avoid a ban. Several factors determine if there will be a water ban including dry-conditions, flow from the CRSWSC and water consumption. The first priority is to ensure there is sufficient water for essential services (fire protection).

Please note that the City of Beaumont follows the Water Demand Measures set forth by Capital Region Southwest Water Services Commission (CRSWSC). When water bans or restrictions are in place, this is generally due to requirements set forth by the CRSWSC.

Yes, there are plans in place to upgrade the pumping capacity and add reservoirs as Beaumont grows.

For information on how to check your home for water leaks, visit the “Leaks” section on the Water Meters page.

Water bans are put in place to ensure there is sufficient water capacity in Beaumont’s reservoir for essential resident use and firefighting. Your cooperation in helping to preserve this precious resource is greatly appreciated! If a water ban is implemented, that information will appear on the Public Notices page.