City asks residents to restrict their weekend water use
By Collin Gallant on April 28, 2018.
Medicine Hat News Officials with the city’s water utility are asking customers to hold off watering lawns and gardens this weekend to reduce stress on the water treatment plant. The facility is operating at elevated levels to remove debris from the water it brings in from the South Saskatchewan River, which is typically cloudy during spring runoff season. Drinking water is safe to drink and the supply is not threatened, say officials, but supplying higher volumes required for gardening, increases the operating cost and stress on the system. “We know people are eager to welcome the spring season and start watering lawns and filling fountains,” said Brian Murphy, the department’s general manager. “However, increased demand on the water treatment system could jeopardize the quality of water we are able to produce. “We’re hoping the community works together to help us safeguard our water supply by taking these small steps over the weekend.” The weather forecast calls for sun and a high approaching 30 C on Saturday, but then cooler rainy conditions on Sunday and Monday. Property owners in Dunmore, Seven Persons, Desert Blume and Irvine as well as members of the Royal and Green Valley Water Co-ops are also asked to restrict outdoor water usage. 9-8
