The Town of Nanton is moving to a Level 2 Water Restriction due to an increase in groundwater flowing into the town’s collection system.
In March, excessive water began backing up the sewer system east of Highway 2.
Temporary storage tanks, vacuum trucks, and a containment cell were used to relieve the system.
Despite efforts, the town’s Wastewater Treatment Plant cannot handle the additional water.
“There is no evidence of a water main break or increase in water use, but the source cannot be confirmed until the system stabilizes,” the Town of Nanton’s public notice said.
Under a Level 2 Restriction, outdoor water use is limited to a twice-weekly schedule, including watering lawns, flowerbeds and gardens, washing vehicles, and using a sprinkler.
Watering permits for new residential lawns and construction uses, such as grading and dust control, also won’t be approved.
The town is working with Alberta Environment and industry specialists to assess the situation and determine the next steps.
New water treatment filtration systems have been ordered to expand facility capacity but could take several months to be delivered.
At this time, the town is encouraging everyone to take shorter showers and delay non-essential laundry or dishwasher use.