BARRHEAD - Town of Barrhead water restrictions remain in effect.
That is the latest update released by the municipality this morning, July 11.
The town initially imposed the restriction the previous afternoon, citing significant strain on the municipal water supply due to rising temperatures and subsequent jump in demand. It asked residents to reduce their use of non-essential water, such as lawn watering, car washing, and pool filling.
To help manage the demand and replenish its water reserves, the town closed the municipality's bulk water filling station at 44064-62A Street. As part of this morning's update, the municipality stated that the station remains closed for the immediate future and directed users to similar facilities in Mayerthorpe, Fort Assiniboine, Whitecourt, Westlock, and Neerlandia. They also stated that effective Friday, July 12, the town's Rotary Splash Park would limit the hours of operation from noon to 5 p.m.
To help the residents stay cool, the Barrhead Regional Aquatic Centre will offer a series of free swims from July 12 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on July 13 and 14 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The release stated that the municipality hopes to reopen its bulk water station on July 13 at noon.
The other water restriction limiting any water supplies used in the municipality, from hose, pipe, sprinkler, or permanent irrigation system, is allowed between 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. only. This was initiated on July 12 and remains in effect.
Exceptions to the water restrictions outlined in the media release included using a watering can, hose with a nozzle or a drip irrigation system control the amount of water used and do not waste excess water.
Water restrictions do not apply to newly laid sod and seeded lawns or to other landscaping when there is a risk that a new tree, shrub, or another type of vegetation will perish.
"We understand the increasing temperatures mean that everyone is getting hot and understand the need for recreational use of sprinklers and water toys at any time," the Town stated in its initial release.
Chief administrative officer Edward LeBlanc said the municipality instituted the restrictions because its industrial reservoir was losing ground due to the increased demand.
"It wasn't capturing what was being used, so we were registering a net loss in the reservoir," he said.
LeBlanc also wanted to thank residents for their water-conserving efforts.
"We have seen a dramatic decrease in water usage since asking residents to conserve water, we greatly appreciate their efforts," he said.
Barry Kerton, TownandCountryToday.com
