The Stampeders game will go ahead despite Calgary’s water restrictions

CALGARY — Friday’s Calgary Stampeders game was given the green light to go ahead despite city water restrictions.

Calgarians were urged to reduce water use as work to repair a major water main was extended into a second day.

Outdoor water use, such as washing cars or watering plants, was banned, and citizens were asked to shorten showers, stop washing dishes and laundry, and reduce toilet flushing.

A fire ban was also in effect to conserve water for firefighting.

“The Calgary Stampeders and the McMahon Stadium Society are closely monitoring the City of Calgary’s messages regarding the critical water main break in Northwest Calgary,” the Stampeders said in a statement Friday.

“All water usage guidelines are being strictly adhered to, we ask all fans to be mindful of water usage during tonight’s game.”

The Stampeders were set to host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in their first game of the 2024 CFL season.

Former Stampeder quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell is back for the first time since being traded to Hamilton.

Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) chief Susan Henry said during Friday’s city update, “things like this don’t have a big impact on the water supply and we understand the Stampeders game will go ahead as planned.”

“What’s really important, I think, for all of us is to do our part, and individually, what can you do?” said Nancy Mackay, director of Calgary Water Services.

“Going to watch a football game, the sense of community, we looked at the water use in the stadium and we couldn’t argue that this would save more water.

“Individually, both in your business, your operations, your facilities, your homes, your churches, your community associations, what you can do every day, and I would certainly hope that people think about that as well, while they’re playing and enjoying game.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 7, 2024.

The Canadian Press