A City of Lethbridge rebate program for purchasing rain barrels and replacing old and inefficient toilets with new low-flow toilets has returned
The Environmental Incentive Program is back, as part of the City’s Water Conservation Plan and Strategy, approved by council in 2024.
The program runs from Apr. 22 through Dec. 31, or until funding runs out.
Each household can get up to two rebates for low-flow toilets and two for rain barrels. For both items, the rebate covers 50 per cent of the cost, up to $100 each.
Any City of Lethbridge resident with a residential water utility account is eligible, and rebate amounts will be applied directly to that account.
Environmental Manager Mark Svenson said the City’s 2024 public survey showed overwhelming support for the rebates.
“It’s clear Lethbridge residents care about conserving water and making environmentally responsible choices. This program is a great way for people to take action at home and be part of a larger solution,” Svenson stated.
All applications are subject to approval and require specific supporting documents.
The inaugural year saw more than 360 rain barrel rebates approved, and more than 140 for low-flow toilets.
“Just to put that in perspective, 150 low-flow toilets are replacing some water-intensive toilets and can save approximately two million litres of water per year. It’s a significant amount of water and great success through the program,” noted Svenson.
With the rain barrels, that is much less treated water being used to water gardens, lawns, and flowerbeds.
“We recognize water conservation is a mindset. It’s a change in behaviour, and that’s what we’re looking for over years,” Svenson added. “It takes time to get there.”
EARTH DAY EVENT
The City also hosts an Earth Day-related event on Saturday, Apr. 25 at Legacy Park.
“There’s a number of events going on. You can actually enter a draw for some rain barrels at that event. There’s also a compost giveaway and a number of other city departments that will be there to facilitate discussions and talk about programs that can help with our environment,” Svenson noted.
More information is available on the City of Lethbridge website.
