At Prestige Outdoor Services, we believe in outdoor spaces that thrive—not just today, but for years to come. That’s why we’re proud to support Calgary’s Water Managed Sites (WMS) Program, an initiative designed to promote responsible water use across various types and sized properties. With our Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA) on staff, we’re here to help you navigate the WMS process from start to finish, ensuring your landscape not only looks great, but meets City of Calgary sustainability standards.
What is the Water Managed Sites Program?
The Water Managed Sites Program is a voluntary program developed by the City of Calgary that encourages property owners and managers to reduce outdoor water use through efficient landscape design and irrigation practices. With water conservation becoming increasingly important—especially during Calgary’s dry summers—the WMS program aims to promote smart, site-specific water use without compromising the beauty or health of your property.
Why Does the Program Exist?
Calgary’s population is growing, and with it, so is demand on our water resources. Outdoor water use can account for a significant portion of a property’s water consumption if the irrigation system is poorly designed. The City created the WMS Program to help commercial, multi-family, and institutional properties:
- Use water more efficiently
- Maintain healthy, functional landscapes
- Save money on water bills
- Be recognized for their environmental stewardship
It’s a win-win for both your bottom line and the environment.
How to Become a Water Managed Site
The process to become a Water Managed Site is straightforward and we’re here to help at every step.
1. Install the Required Irrigation Hardware
Your irrigation system must include:
- A smart (weather-based) irrigation controller
- A rain sensor or soil moisture sensor
- A master valve and flow sensor
- A cross-connection control (backflow prevention) device
- A dedicated irrigation water meter or flow totalizer
Don’t worry—we can help assess your current system and install any missing components.
2. Hire a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA)
To become certified, you’ll need to work with a CLIA, like the one on our team at Prestige Outdoor Services. This professional will:
- Verify your hardware and system settings
- Submit the official application to the City of Calgary
3. Complete a Performance Audit During the Growing Season
Our CLIA will perform an audit to demonstrate that your irrigation system is running efficiently and submit the results to the City.
4. Submit an Annual Site Performance Report
Each year in November, our CLIA will submit a report to the City of Calgary. If the report shows a water use reduction 25% compared to the baseline and meets all other requirements of the WMS program, your site will maintain the WMS status for the following year.
Benefits of Becoming a Water Managed Site
- Water Savings: Significantly reduce unnecessary water use and avoid costly overwatering.
- Lower Utility Bills: Smarter irrigation equals long-term savings on your water bill.
- Healthier Landscapes: Prevent overwatering and promote plant health with efficient irrigation zones and scheduling.
- Environmental Leadership: Join a growing list of Calgary properties committed to sustainability.
- Recognition: Your site will be recognized by the City of Calgary as a leader in water conservation.
- Fewer Restrictions: Certified WMS are less restricted with watering practices during times of water restrictions.
- Avoid Preferred Watering Schedules: Watering any day of the week, regardless of the preferred water day schedule, allows large sites to do all the watering they need.
Why Work with Prestige Outdoor Services?
Not every irrigation contractor is equipped to guide you through the WMS process. Our team includes a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor who is trained and certified to perform the audits required by the City of Calgary. We combine this expertise with decades of experience in irrigation, lawn care, and outdoor property services, ensuring your landscape receives expert care that meets all municipal standards.
Whether you’re managing a condo complex, school, office park, or commercial property, or you’re a homeowner looking to improve your system’s irrigation efficiency, we’re here to make the WMS process simple, efficient, and rewarding.
