YMCA Calgary Reduces Water Use Without Impacting Programs

In response to the City of Calgary's request to reduce indoor water use, YMCA Calgary is implementing water conservation efforts across all branches. We are reviewing our operations and scheduled maintenance to reduce water consumption starting December 31, 2025.

Our swimming pools will remain open and programs, including swimming lessons, day camps, gym usage, and ice and facility rentals will not be impacted. We will provide free access for showering to Calgarians who have had their household water entirely shut off due to the water main break.

Some high-water-use amenities like steam rooms, hot tubs, towel service, and flow rider may be temporarily closed, with closure details to be provided when relevant. Modern-day recreation centres have several sustainability aspects designed into the buildings and the operations. Here are some ways we reduce our water consumption year-round: 

• Our LEED Gold certified facilities use recycled water in our operations where possible (e.g. using shower wastewater and pool backwashes to flush toilets).  
• Modern swimming pools recycle 100% of their water, through constant filtration and recirculation. The only water they lose is through evaporation, which through proper air temperature and humidity controls, is negligible. 
• Our washroom faucets are on sensors to limit waste, and all our showers are low flow (less than 4.5 L/minute vs. typical home shower of 10 L/minute).  

We thank our employees, volunteers, and members for continuing to follow recommendations to reduce water use as the City of Calgary addresses critical repairs to our water system.