WHAT WE DO
Irrigation plays a significant part in feeding Alberta, Canada, and well beyond. For agriculture throughout southern Alberta, crop production is more reliable and varied thanks to irrigation water.
Snow accumulation in the mountains along with spring rainfall provides water for each growing season. The Bow River flows through Calgary, where the WID diverts water through a network of canals and pipelines.
Water season runs May through September each year, when hundreds of farms and households receive water for irrigation, livestock and to use in yards and gardens.
Areas we serve
Our district is one of several in southern Alberta that provides irrigation water to a specific jurisdiction.
The WID begins just east of Calgary, goes north to Irricana, south to Carseland, and east to Cluny.
Our canals & pipelines
There are more than a thousand kilometres of canals and pipelines in the District.
The main canal, originally built by the Canadian Pacific Railway, begins where water is diverted from the Bow River at Harvie Passage.
Our reservoirs
Chestermere Reservoir is a popular oasis on the prairies.
Originally an intermittent slough, the Canadian Pacific Railway constructed a holding pool, to balance water diverted from the Bow River for irrigation called Reservoir No. 1, or Chestermere Lake.
Our projects
For many years, the WID has worked with governments to upgrade infrastructure.
More than $145 million has been invested since 2007. A significant investment into irrigated agriculture was made in September 2020 …
Habitat
Through all that we do, the WID integrates an understanding and appreciation of the environment and important ecosystems.
Over the years, we have partnered with Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever and other conservation organizations to support the landscape and environment in areas where we operate.
We care for and maintain the edges of our reservoirs and canals, called riparian areas. These strips of land have water-loving vegetation.
Where the WID water comes from
Snow melt & rain
The Bow River
Diversion gate at Harvey Passage
Provincial irrigation canal
Reservoir
Water pipeline
Irrigated farms
We support crops and stock:
Canola, flax &
Wheat, barley & oats
Hay, grass & silage
Potatoes, peas & other vegetables
Flowers, trees & shrubs
