Dear Irrigators,
We would like to update you on the water supply level as of January 31, 2025 based on recent information obtained from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation.
Current storage levels within the District’s reservoirs are at 256,000 acre-feet, which represents 80% of the Full Supply Level (FSL). The Headworks reservoirs, comprised of the Waterton, St. Mary and Milk River Ridge reservoirs, are sitting at a combined storage of 257,000 acre-feet, or 52% of the FSL. The current total of all of the storage in the St. Mary Project reservoirs is 513,000 acre-feet or 63% of FSL. This is a significant improvement from storage levels reported in January 2024
Please note we target our winter storage levels lower than FSL to accommodate spring run off and precipitation events. We are currently at 84% of our combined Headworks and District reservoirs winter storage target levels.
Below is the most recent Snowpack data supplied by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, Snowpacks for Snow Pillows at Akamina, Flattop and Many Glacier.
Snowpack increased steadily in November to mid December, however, all three stations are currently still below the lower quartile for January. We have yet to receive our meaningful snowfall this year as the majority of the snowfall is not typically received until February – April. Snow Pillow information can be monitored at Alberta Environment and Parks.
It is still too early to predict what the water allocation will be for the 2025 irrigation season, however, we will continue to closely monitor the snowpack and precipitation levels in the coming months and provide monthly updates.
Sincerely,
David Westwood
General Manager
St. Mary River Irrigation District