With CAO Doug Lefsrud saying the Viking seasonal filtered raw water station is getting good reviews, council was informed at the June 17 regular meeting of the station’s water use for May.
With 22 accounts signed up, the total volume of water sold (m3) in that month was 258.13 m3, which amounts to $1,548.78 revenue at $6 per m3.
These volumes of water were purchased by just five accounts out of the 22 account holders, but Lefsrud predicted that will soon increase.
As the crops “get going, farmers will be coming in (to get water) for spraying,” he said.
Lefsrud said he has been “reaching out (to potential users) about accessing the water,” adding: “I have not heard a negative comment about it. Farmers coming in have nothing but praise.”
Lefsrud also met with the CAO of the Village of Holden regarding the new water outlet, and Beaver County has also expressed interest in the innovation.
In fact, the word about the raw water sales designed to offset the use of potable water during a time of potential drought is spreading. Lefsrud reported he has spoken to reporters from the Alberta Farmer/Western Producer which are writing articles on the project.
Patricia Harcourt
Editor
