Cochrane’s water distribution system consists of:
- approximately 161 kilometres of water mains
- eight storage reservoirs
- 10 booster stations
- 24 pressure-reducing valves
- 526 fire hydrants
- 2,123 water main valves
Every building connected to the Town’s water system has a water meter that measures monthly usage. Due to Cochrane’s hilly topography, the distribution system is dynamic and has multiple pressure zones supplying water to various subdivisions.
Pump stations and reservoirs
To support areas at higher elevations, Cochrane uses pump stations and reservoirs that work together to maintain water flow and pressure.
Example — Heritage Hills
Treated water is pumped from the water treatment plant to the reservoir, which holds 3.2 million litres. Water is then pumped from the reservoir at a high pressure to supply the community with treated water at a specified pressure. A portion of the Heritage Hills reservoir storage (1.3 million litres) is designated for fire storage, ensuring the community has sufficient water for firefighting needs.
The number and capacity of the pumps at each station are based on the required fire flow for the neighbourhood and the projected peak day demand.