Dear Irrigators,
We would like to update you on the water supply level as of March 24, 2025, based on recent information obtained from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation (AG&I).
AG&I reservoirs remain consistent from levels reported in February. Headworks reservoirs do not typically see significant fluctuations during the winter months. AG&I reservoir data shows headworks storage increased slightly by 3,500 ac-ft from our last Water Supply update and has a combined storage of 259,500 ac-ft. SMRID reservoirs remain at winter target levels.
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, Flat Top and Many Glacier. All 3 snowpacks are reporting below the lower quartile and are similar to levels reported in March 2024.
The Akamina Snow Pillow reports losing SWE of 50 mm through late February and early March but has since then gained it back. Flattop Mountain and Many Glacier Snow Pillows show slowing through the same period but are trending upwards again.
Flat Top Mountain snow pillow is showing similar Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) to March, 2024.
All 3 snowpacks remain below the lower quartile and are very close to last year at this time. Thanks to recent snowfalls, Akamina has rebounded to above last year’s readings. Up-to-date Snow Pillow information can be monitored at Alberta Environment and Parks.
While the snowpacks are reporting similar to 2024, combined reservoir storage levels are significantly better than last year. Additionally, there is still 6-8 weeks to accumulate snowfall. Although the snowpack is low, combined storage between Headworks and district reservoirs has nearly doubled since March 2024.
We look forward to announcing initial allocation for the 2025 irrigation season at the upcoming Annual General Meeting which will be held at the Lethbridge Agrifood Hub & Trade Centre on April 2 at 1:30 p.m.
Sincerely,
David Westwood
General Manager
St. Mary River Irrigation District