Water Conservation

Water conservation is paramount to securing a sustainable and resilient future for communities like Diamond Valley. As our region faces challenges such as drought and diminishing water sources, each individual's commitment to responsible water usage becomes crucial. By conscientiously conserving water in our daily activities, adhering to watering schedules, and adopting eco-friendly practices like rainwater harvesting, we collectively contribute to preserving this precious resource. Water conservation not only safeguards our environment but also ensures a reliable supply for future generations. It is a shared responsibility that fosters community resilience, environmental health, and a mindful approach to sustainable living, laying the foundation for a flourishing and water-secure Diamond Valley.

Diamond Valley Water Droplet

Town Efforts to Support Water Conservation

In its commitment to sustainable practices and the well-being of the community, the Town of Diamond Valley actively engages in various initiatives and programs to support water conservation.

Water Use and Conservation Bylaw 2023-24:

The cornerstone of our water conservation strategy is the Water Use and Conservation Bylaw 2023-24. This comprehensive document not only emphasizes the importance of water conservation but also provides a structured approach to manage water usage effectively. By adhering to these guidelines, we collectively contribute to a sustainable and resilient water future for Diamond Valley.

Prohibition against wasting Water

      • All consumers and individuals are strictly prohibited from wasting water. Avoid potable water runoff resulting from excessive lawn, trees/shrubs, or garden watering, and use a spring-loaded trigger spray nozzle for vehicle or surface washing. Continuous or excessive water use for these purposes is considered wasteful and must be avoided.
      • Penalties exist within the bylaw for non-compliance with the  Mandatory Water Conservation Schedule (Level 2) or Emergency Water Restrictions (Level 3), as well as for wasting water.  Fines range from $100 to $1500 for repeat offenders.

Recommended (Level 1) and Mandatory (Level 2) Watering Schedule

  • It is recommended under Level 1 and mandatory under Mandatory Water Conservation Level 2 to follow the watering schedule as outlined below. This schedule optimizes specific hours and designated days for watering of lawns, trees and shrubs.  Under Level 3 Emergency Water Restrictions, all outdoor water use, watering of lawns, trees and shrubs, and non-essential water use is strictly prohibited. 
  • Vegetable gardens may be hand-watered at any time when using a watering container or a hose with a spring­ loaded trigger spray nozzle.

      • Odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) may water on:

        • Tuesdays
        • Thursdays
        • Sundays

      • Even-numbered addresses (ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) may water on:

        • Mondays
        • Wednesdays
        • Saturdays

Residents are urged to adhere to these guidelines, utilizing the recommended hours for watering lawns, trees and shrubs:

        • 6:00 am to 9:00 am
        • 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm
        • 2:00 am to 5:00 am (for automatic irrigation systems)
  • Hand watering may be done at any time when using a watering container or a hose with a spring-loaded trigger spray nozzle to water flower beds, vegetable gardens, or for newly planted trees or shrubs until they are established.
  • Requests for site and condition-specific irrigation scheduling for commercial or industrial operations, using a metered irrigation system, may be approved in writing by the CAO.
  • Requests for water restriction exemption permits, for newly seeded lawns or freshly planted sod, may be applied for at the Municipal Office.

Leak Detection Program and Repairs:

Our town has initiated a proactive leak detection program aimed at identifying and addressing water leaks throughout the Town's network of underground infrastructure. This ongoing effort has resulted in substantial water savings to date, although we still have a long way to go. Last year alone, through prompt inspections and repairs, the program successfully saved 700 cubic meters of water per day in the first three months of investigative efforts. The commitment to reducing water losses is further demonstrated by the Capital Budget 2024 approval, which includes plans for water and sewer replacements along 1 Ave NE-NW in the Black Diamond community. These initiatives showcase our dedication to responsible water management and a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by aging underground infrastructure.

Digital Water Meters:

A key aspect of our water conservation efforts is the implementation of digital water meters. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure all buildings within the town are equipped with advanced digital meters, which enhances our monitoring capabilities for efficient water management. As part of our ongoing commitment to accuracy and efficiency, a review of the distribution of old water meters needing updates is set to commence this year, ensuring precise metering and contributing to our overall water conservation goals.

Watering of Town Gardens and Planters:

The Water Treatment Plant engages in daily backwashing of the system, resulting in a backwash pond with non-potable, recycled water. This recycled water is then utilized for watering town gardens, baskets, and planters; affirming our dedication to sustainable water usage practices. 

Sale of Rain Barrels and Totes:

As part of our commitment to water conservation, we actively promote the use of rain barrels and totes through an affordable program. 

Residents can purchase 250L rain barrels for $83.22+GST and 1000L Rain Totes for $236.52+GST at the Municipal Office. 

To meet potential demand during drought conditions, new inventory of totes and barrels has been ordered early this year. We encourage residents to set up their water harvesting equipment early in the season and catch spring rain for gardens, yards, and trees. This initiative not only supports individual water conservation efforts but also contributes to our community-wide strategy to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing drought in Southern Alberta.

Rain Tote 5
Rain Tote 2

Conserving Water in Your Home and Garden


Household Efficiency:

  1. Fix Leaks: Regularly check and promptly repair any leaks in faucets, pipes, or appliances.
  2. Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow faucets and showerheads to reduce water consumption.
  3. Full Loads: Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads to maximize efficiency.
  4. Shorter Showers: Encourage shorter showers and don't let the faucet run while brushing teeth or shaving. 
  5. Wash-up Water Wise: Run a shallow dishpan to wash dishes and allow rinse water to fall into it, rather than letting the faucet flow continuously.

Garden and Yard Conservation:

  1. Xeriscaping: Consider xeriscaping with drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation methods.
  2. Rain Barrels and Totes: Harvest rainwater using rain barrels and 1000L totes to water gardens, lawns, and potted plants, 
  3. Downspout and Overflow: Ensure that downspouts and overflow is directed at areas of the yard and garden where it can be useful and sink in to landscaping features.
  4. Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and suppress weeds.
  5. Watering Schedule: Follow the Town's recommended watering schedule for lawns to conserve water effectively.

Smart Lawn Care:

  1. Prioritize Areas: Focus watering on areas you want lush, and limit water use in non-display areas.
  2. Survival Irrigation: Practice survival irrigation with minimal water for non-display grass.
  3. Reduce Foot Traffic: Minimize foot traffic on the lawn during drought to prevent turf damage.
  4. Deep Roots: Encourage deep grass roots by gradually decreasing watering frequency.
  5. Replace Grasses: Consider replacing thirsty grass species with drought-tolerant groundcover species that will fare better in dry conditions.

Sprinkler Use:

  1. Efficient Nozzles: Inspect and replace sprinkler nozzles to prevent wasteful water use.
  2. Timer Usage: Use sprinkler timers with rain sensors for efficient irrigation scheduling.
  3. Proper Placement: Ensure sprinklers water the lawn, not driveways or streets, to avoid runoff.
  4. Water Absorption: Optimize water absorption by using shorter, intermittent watering intervals.
  5. Drip and Soak Instead: Incorporate drip and soaker hose irrigation into gardens to reduce water loss from evaporation.

Additional Tips:

  1. Wise Plant Selection: Choose drought-tolerant plants for gardens and landscaping.
  2. Micro-Climate Consideration: Plants should be placed according to micro-climates for optimal water use.
  3. Slow-Release Fertilizer: Use slow-release fertilizers to reduce the need for excessive watering.
  4. Mower Practices: Cut grass less often, leave it longer, and sharpen mower blades regularly.

Implementing these water-saving practices at the household level contributes significantly to Diamond Valley's overall water conservation efforts.