Cochrane Lake is a provincially owned natural stormwater pond north of the Town of Cochrane that has experienced ongoing flooding, water quality, and odour issues. The Cochrane Lake Improvement Plan proposes targeted upgrades to improve stormwater management, increase lake storage capacity, enhance water quality, and deliver a regional recreational amenity while protecting the surrounding environment.
Key improvements include a new inlet to convey raw water from the Bow River, upgrades to discharge pumps to increase outflow to Horse Creek, and construction of a paved pathway around the lake. Fresh water from the Bow River will improve circulation, supporting better water quality. Pump upgrades will allow lake levels to be managed more effectively during flood events, while increased storage capacity will permit natural fluctuations between normal and high-water levels. The pathway will both define the future high-water level and provide community connectivity.
The project aims to allow lake levels to fluctuate without impacting nearby residents, improve stormwater infrastructure resiliency, and enhance public access around the lake. Together, these upgrades will strengthen resilience to droughts and floods, reduce recurring algae blooms, and address a long-standing public health concern. This project is a joint initiative between Rocky View County and Macdonald Communities Limited.
The link to the FAQ sheet shared with the residents at the September 15, 2025, Community Open House is found here [PDF/1.2MB].
The link to some project reference drawings is found here [PDF/6.2MB].
Construction is planned to begin in 2026 pending regulatory and landowner approvals.