Despite the drought-like conditions this spring, Winkler's aquifer remains in relatively good shape.

The city has recently entered into an agreement to reduce the volume of water received from the Pembina Valley Water Coop over the summer months to help during peak usage times and increase water purchases over the winter.

Scott Toews, Director of Planning and Engineering, explains the fall and winter recession in water levels followed the normal pattern, and the current level is between the median and average for this time of year. However, he notes based on the low snow accumulation, below normal recharge is expected this spring.

A $200,000 study on the aquifer commissioned by the City of Winkler is currently in phase two with the public consultation process beginning next month.

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.