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. 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. “The city continues to advocate for the upstream Bow River Reservoir,” Newton said. 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.