The City of Winkler is working "feverishly" to create a drought response plan together with the Pembina Valley Water Coop after a scare this summer.

"We continue to do our part in drought-proofing, both as a city and with the region," Winkler Mayor Martin Harder says.

In recent weeks, a number of communities including Winkler urged residents to conserve water as local treatment plants reached capacity, putting a strain on reservoirs and distribution systems. Residents were asked to refrain from all non-essential water use.

Scott Toews, Director of Planning and Engineering, explains, however, the Winkler Aquifer is still considered to be in normal conditions based on the most recent update below.

Today, about 65 percent of the city's water is drawn from the Winkler Aquifer through 12 wells. However, rapid growth continues to be a factor.

The rate of withdrawal almost 20 years ago was 1000 acre-feet per year. It was estimated by 2020, the demand on the Winkler Aquifer would reach 1,700 acre-feet per year.