Long-awaited Springbank off-stream reservoir now in operation

A major flood resilience project is finished, almost 12 years after flood waters surged into Calgary communities in 2013, killing one person and causing billions of dollars in damage.

The Springbank off-stream reservoir (SR1) is now in operation and ready to protect communities along the Elbow River from large-scale floods, the province announced Wednesday.

The dry reservoir, located approximately 15 kilometres west of Calgary in Rocky View County, will divert and store flood waters from the Elbow River when needed and release them when it's safe.

"With flood season now upon us, Calgary and southern Alberta can rest assured that they will be protected from future large-scale floods like that of 2013," said Alberta Minister of Transportation Devin Dreeshen in a news release.

"SR1's innovative design will ensure people, communities and businesses are buffered from the most devastating physical and economic impacts of major floods."

A 24-metre wide, 4.7-kilometre long diversion canal will carry flood water to the off-stream site. It's a 29-metre tall, 3.8-kilometre long storage dam and reservoir.

The reservoir has a storage capacity of 70.2 million cubic metres — approximately enough water to fill 28,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Calgary flood season underway

Calgary's 2025 flood season, marking the two months when river flooding is most likely, began last week. 

The chances of flooding this year are considered "normal," according to the city, adding Calgarians are better protected from flooding than ever before.

Calgary has achieved a 70 per cent reduction in flood risk exposure, the city announced in a news release last Thursday.

"Though there's still more that needs to be done to protect communities that remain vulnerable to flooding, our city's overall resilience has come a long way over the last 12 years," said Frank Frigo, a water resources engineer with the city, in the release. 

Reservoir will also protect wildlife, says forestry minister

The Springbank reservoir will also protect wildlife and their habitat from the impacts of major floods, according to the province.

"The Springbank reservoir reflects the government's commitment to protecting Albertans, wildlife and the diverse landscapes we all share," said Todd Loewen, Alberta's minister of forestry and parks, in the news release.

"This flood mitigation measure will ensure critical habitats are protected, meaning fish and wildlife populations in the region can continue to thrive, while also protecting the outdoor spaces Albertans hold dear."

Construction on the Springbank off-stream reservoir began in 2022. Total costs added up to an estimated $849 million, including land purchases.

The province has previously said it reached voluntary agreements with all affected landowners and no land expropriation was needed.

Ottawa provided $168.5 million for the project. The province said it covered the rest of the bill.