Here Comes the Rain?

52%.

That’s the amount of precipitation that Lethbridge has received in the past six months compared to the average amount from the past 30 years. Since November 1, we have had 54 mm of precipitation, compared to the normal amount of 107 mm. Although we have all enjoyed the beautiful sunny weather and the warm temperatures, I think we were all relieved to see the rain last night.

We live in a dry climate. As well, our economy is supported by a variety of industrial and agricultural businesses who rely on water to manufacture their products or grow their crops. Most years we are fortunate to be able to have enough water available for all of our needs. However, long term drought or short term flooding or infrastructure issues could easily impact our water supply.

To help prepare for water shortages, whether they be long-term or short term issues, the City of Lethbridge has adopted a new Water Rationing Plan. The Plan sets targets for water reduction that are dependent on the length and severity of the water shortage. As with other similar rationing plans, the City’s plan will place restrictions on the timing and amount of outdoor watering use.

It is too early to say if we will face a water shortage this summer. Let’s hope that May and June bring at least normal levels of precipitation so that the City’s Water Rationing Plan won’t be needed. In case it is needed, having a plan in place to deal with potential issues with water supply or treatment is a step in the right direction.

Event Preview: Keen for Green Fest

Environment Lethbridge Welcomes New Staff Members

SL:I was born and raised in Lethbridge, moved away when I was 16 for school and have been coming back for summers and Christmas ever since!
CS: Two years. 

Why did you want to work with Environment Lethbridge? 
SL: I’ve always been keen on maintaining, sustaining and preserving our environment. When the chance came up to promote and encourage environmental sustainability in my hometown I was definitely interested!
CS: I want to work for Environment Lethbridge because I saw how Environment Lethbridge is working to ensure that Lethbridge is a leader in sustainability. Since university, I have worked and volunteered with many environmental advocacy groups and being able to join an organization locally is a dream come true! 

How would like to see Lethbridge be more sustainable? 
SL: In order for Lethbridge to grow as a sustainable city, everyone has to be on board. I think it’s important to reach out to people who aren’t necessarily involved with sustainability to realize how important their contributions can be. Preserving our environment can be tricky if it’s just a few individuals working alone, we need to come together as a city and work collectively towards a sustainable future. And getting curbside recycling to happen, of course!
CS: I would like to see a city-wide curbside recycling program! This would be an accessible way for everyone to make our city more sustainable. In my dream world, I would also like to see Lethbridge utilizing grey water to water our lawns, flush toilets and wash cars! 

What's your favourite book? 
SL: Sammy Keyes series by Wendelin Van Draanen. Started reading them when I was 7 and haven’t put them down since.
CS: This was nearly impossible for me to pick but I am going with the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. I am still waiting for my letter to Hogwarts...

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have? 
SL: Teleportation.
CS: I would love to have the ability to fly! It would make travelling to visit friends and family so much easier. 

If you could go back in time, what one thing would you change? 
SL: Styrofoam! Who invented that? Silly invention, I would try to stop that from happening.
CS: I would want to go back in time and change the way early explorers and settlers treated aboriginal peoples and cultures as they settled in North America. Eliminating the discrimination and racism of the past would have a profound and very positive impact on our society.

What would you do if you won the lottery? 
SL: Buy some plane tickets, pay my parents back.
CS:  I would buy my parents their dream home.

Where is your favourite place in Lethbridge? 
SL: The coulees! Specifically the Scenic Drive dog run. That or the front porch of my house.
CS: Pavan Park in the spring.  

Describe your perfect day. 
SL: Food, family, friends, dancing, sunshine!
CS: A warm and sunny summer day hiking in the mountains with my dogs.

Thanks to both Sophia and Courtnay and we're looking forward to having them on board for the next few months!  

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