Water worries in Alberta as Calgary rivers fall under shortage advisories

Calgary’s two primary water sources — the Bow and Elbow Rivers — are now under shortage advisories, prompting renewed concerns about the city’s long-term water security.

New data from 2025 indicate that river flows are running below natural levels and approaching restriction thresholds, raising concerns as Calgary’s population and water demands continue to grow.

Alberta was allocated nearly 9.7 billion cubic metres of water in 2023, primarily sourced from rivers and lakes. But with dry conditions persisting, officials say the province’s water infrastructure must evolve to meet future challenges.

Nicole Newton, Manager of Natural Environment and Adaptation for the City of Calgary, says reservoir levels are currently sufficient to get through the winter, and meteorological forecasts suggest normal conditions ahead. Still, she emphasizes the need for proactive planning.

“The city continues to advocate for the upstream Bow River Reservoir,” Newton said. “It’s a significant piece of infrastructure that will enable drought resilience by storing and capturing water in times of shortage, while also helping to mitigate future floods.”

In response to growing concerns, the Alberta government is investing $125 million over five years through its Drought and Flood Protection Program.

“We are doing more than any other government in Alberta’s history to protect Albertans from future droughts,” says Ryan Fournier, Press Secretary for the Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “We can’t change the weather or make it rain, but we are continuing to invest in new infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, the City of Calgary is expanding water efficiency programs to help residents reduce everyday use — including rain barrel initiatives and stormwater reuse upgrades. A new water efficiency plan is also in development, with an expected release in 2026, which will establish updated targets for balancing supply with population growth.

As shortage advisories remain in place, officials say the path forward will require both innovation and conservation to ensure Calgary’s water system remains resilient in the face of climate uncertainty.