Water Restrictions

April 19, 2024

NEWS RELEASE

On May 1, the City of Parksville will move to Stage 2 outdoor water restrictions. During summer months, our water use can double mainly due to outdoor uses such as watering lawns and gardens and washing cars and outdoor surfaces. Region-wide water use restrictions are an effective way to reduce summer demand and ensure supply for essential services. We encourage all residents to conserve where possible; taking conservation measures early, before our water supplies come under stress, is essential to ensure we can maintain an adequate water supply throughout the hot dry summers we have come to expect.

Stage 2 means sprinkling can only occur on even days for even-numbered houses and on odd days for odd-numbered houses. Sprinkling is permitted for a maximum of two hours between 7 am to 10 am OR 7 pm to 10 pm. Stage 2 will be in effect until otherwise advised.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Sprinkler watering - odd numbered civic addresses may water on odd numbered days and even numbered civic addresses may water on even numbered days. Watering times are 7 am to 10 am OR 7 pm to 10 pm for a maximum of two hours of total allocated watering per day.
• Vegetable gardens and fruit trees - exempt from all watering restrictions.
• Watering of ornamental shrubs, flowers and trees - restricted to a hand-held container or a hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle if watered outside of the times permitted.
• Washing of vehicles, boats and buildings - vehicles, boats and exterior building surfaces may be washed using City supplied potable water using a hand-held container or hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
• Washing of sidewalks and driveways - persons may use City supplied potable water to wash sidewalks, driveways or parking lots.
• Swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs, and water features - may be filled with water.

Please note vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions and businesses which require water for operations are also exempt.

Detailed information about the City’s water restrictions is available on the City’s website. The City of Parksville is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs. Please direct questions to bylaw@parksville.ca.

For more information:
Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications
communications@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073

October 18, 2023

LINK TO PDF

In response to current weather conditions, and aligned with the Regional District of Nanaimo, Stage 1 watering restrictions will take effect on Thursday, October 19. We have now received significant rainfall and the forecast shows continued rain in the coming weeks. We wish to thank our residents for your efforts to conserve water during this summer’s drought.

Stage 1 watering restriction will be in effect from October 19 through October 31 which is the usual watering restriction stage for this time of the year. All watering restrictions will be lifted November 1 through March 31, unless otherwise advised.

The City’s website provides information about our water sources, supply, management, and usage, as well as some frequently asked questions and fun facts. Please refer to Arrowsmith Water Service and Englishman River Water Service links on our website.

The City of Parksville is in the privileged position to have two robust drinking water sources - the Englishman River and groundwater well systems. Water conservation measures in summer months are used to manage outdoor water demands. Always being mindful of conserving this precious resource, reducing unnecessary water use when there are significant seasonal weather events such as drought conditions, allows the City to support the ecology of the river and protect the potable water supply. Water demand from current development is in line with the City’s long-term water supply and demand plan, which also considers the base flow requirements for the river.

Water use planning and management is a focus area in Council’s 2023-2026 strategic plan. During financial plan deliberations earlier this year, Council approved the development of a comprehensive drinking water master plan with recommendations. The request for proposals to be issued by year-end, will include analysis of current consumption rates and uses, data on drinking water sources and availability to meet current and future demand, analysis of storage options, an assessment of the water treatment plant capabilities and efficiencies and climate change implications for long-term sustainability of the drinking water system. Opportunities for public engagement will be provided as part of the study process.

For more information:
Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications
communications@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073

Thursday, October 5

LINK TO PDF

Aligned with most Regional District of Nanaimo water service areas, watering restrictions in the City of Parksville have now been downgraded to Stage 3 until further notice. The recent rain we have experienced has not been sufficient and the provincial drought rating for eastern Vancouver Island remains high.

October is a critical time for aquatic life as stream flows are at seasonal lows prior to the return of significant precipitation and salmon require water levels conducive to migrating to freshwater spawning grounds.

Stage 3 watering restrictions lift the lawn watering ban and allow for outdoor and/or vehicle washing; however, we are asking residents to continue to voluntarily conserve our water. Stage 3 offers flexibility for residents to decide where and how they wish to cut back on water use. Please note vegetable garden watering and drip irrigation are exempt from restrictions.

Detailed information about City of Parksville water restrictions may be viewed on our website and Let’s Talk Parksville. The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs. Please direct questions to the City’s bylaw compliance department by email to bylaw@parksville.ca.

July 20, 2023

LINK TO PDF

With no significant rainfall forecast and temperatures at or above seasonal, Stage 4 water restrictions are crucial to ensure essential water needs for drinking water, hygiene and fire protection are met, and water flows for fish and aquatic habitats are maintained.

East Vancouver Island has been at provincial Drought Level 5 since July 14 with the province advising water providers reduce usage by implementing stricter watering conditions. The added summertime water demands resulting from outdoor water use are the primary stressor on supply and with almost no precipitation in the forecast, there will be continued pressure on the water resources in our region.

Through regular operations, the City continues to adjust systems and strategically reduce water consumption in all aspects of our work. We continue to improve and move toward less water use, more efficient water use, and drought tolerant measures. Significant changes to operations have been made to reduce water required for irrigation while balancing the needs for recreation, tourism, and public safety. Major functional economic assets such as sports fields and significant trees will be preserved using efficient irrigation systems.

Residents have expressed concern certain key areas within the City are still being watered. We hope this information will explain where and why we are watering and where we have notably reduced.

Sports fields
If water to the fields is shutoff, the turf areas will die. To protect this valuable infrastructure without water, the fields would be closed to use. Allowing play would irrevocably damage the fields and potentially cause injuries due to pitting and uneven surfaces. Fencing and security would be required to protect these million-dollar assets and special events such as this month’s BC baseball provincials would be cancelled.

Parksville Community Park
Many systems have been completely turned off and those which remain are much reduced. Critical infrastructure would cost millions to taxpayers to replace. An example is the Arboretum, the only one in BC and one of four in Canada with ArbNet accreditation. A portion of the kite field will receive water and because this is a high traffic area, we are concerned with permanent damage. Similarly, we are watering less frequently to critical areas to protect the infrastructure, such as the outdoor stage area. The splash park operating hours are limited to 1 pm to 6 pm as well as reduced hours at the outdoor shower facilities.

We are providing limited water to trees along the waterfront walkway. Signage will explain why the trees are being watered; without deep irrigation, these trees will die and because most are memorial trees, replacement trees would be costly. For this reason, we will attempt to preserve the trees in this public area.

It is important to understand, if watering to all areas is turned off, use would be restricted, and it would be necessary to cancel large special events to protect our natural assets and mitigate risk to users.

Climate change impacts
The City and our urban forest are adapting to our changing climate. Forest health impacts of particular concern include increased heat and drought stress, more wildfires, flooding, and pest and disease outbreaks. Trees within the City are used to help adapt to climate change impacts as well as mitigate greenhouse gas emission. Urban forests assist with climate adaptation by, for example, providing shade and cooling in hotter summers. Natural asset preservation is critical to help mitigate higher temperatures because of climate change.

There are many areas in the City where the water has been turned off and we will monitor our natural assets to prioritize water use to prevent irrevocable damage and/or for public safety. Examples are the 90 trees along Highway 19A, 22 trees at Springwood Park, and the 50 trees and 100-year-old memorial elms in downtown Parksville.

Off-leash dog park
Necessary for sanitation, watering has been reduced to three days per week. Dog excrement, urine build up and smell creates an unsafe environment. Should all water be turned off, the dog park would be closed for hygiene reasons.

Other City initiatives underway to conserve water are listed here:

• Non-potable water will be used for the hydro excavation truck and street sweeper. Working with the sweeper manufacturer, we have reduced non-potable water use by one third.
• Storm and sewer main flushing will be conducted in the fall instead of during times of conservation measures.
• Non-potable water is used for all hand watering
• No fleet washing unless for health, safety, or sanitary reasons such as cleaning after picking up a dead animal.
• Many City planted feature flower beds are no longer being watered. An example is the bed near the post office. Water to the Pym Street garden will cease next week.

The City of Parksville appreciates the efforts of homeowners and business to conserve. Going to Stage 4 much earlier will help conserve and make it possible to meet water demands during peak times, satisfy river flows, and maintain emergency water storage levels for emergency firefighting.

Detailed information about City of Parksville water restrictions may be viewed on our website and Let’s Talk Parksville. The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs.

July 4, 2023

LINK TO PDF

Effective July 5 and until further notice, the City of Parksville has moved to Stage 4 water restrictions, a comprehensive watering ban. The Province of BC recently elevated east Vancouver Island as well as other areas in the province to Drought Level 4 due to a significant shortfall in seasonable precipitation this past spring, winter and fall and early above seasonal temperatures. The province is requesting water providers reduce water usage by implementing stricter watering conditions.

Stage 4 restrictions help ensure the community’s essential water needs for drinking water, hygiene and fire protection are met, and water flows for fish and aquatic habitats are maintained. Our region is experiencing early low-flow levels in rivers and streams and the continued warmer and drier-than-seasonal conditions forecast, will likely further impact water levels well into the summer. This comprehensive water ban aims to reduce the pressure on surface water and groundwater sources vulnerable to ongoing drought.

Stage 4 restrictions include a ban on all lawn watering activities and residents are not permitted to wash vehicles, boats, or siding, nor fill fountains, pools or hot tubs. Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from Stage 4 restrictions. Between 7 am and 10 am OR 7 pm and 10 pm, drip irrigation and hand watering of gardens is permitted using a hand-held container or a hose equipped with shutoff device.

Detailed information about City of Parksville water restrictions may be viewed on our website and Let’s Talk Parksville. The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs.

Please direction questions to the City’s bylaw compliance department by email to bylaw@parksville.ca.

June 14, 2023

LINK TO PDF

On June 15, in conjunction with the Regional District of Nanaimo water service areas, the City of Parksville is implementing Stage 3 watering restrictions until further notice. Stage 3 restrictions maintain the same even and odd day watering framework as Stage 2, while requesting residents further reduce consumption to defer a comprehensive watering ban. The Province of BC currently lists eastern Vancouver Island at Drought Level 3, “Adverse Impacts Possible” and is calling for voluntary reduction of water use.

The spring period has been unseasonably hot and dry, with an early and rapid snowmelt which is no longer contributing to surface water levels. Creeks and streams in the region are already experiencing low flow conditions and fire risk remains a concern going into the summer months without significant rainfall forecast. By proactively conserving groundwater and surface water, we will ensure water supply resiliency for essential household use, fire protection, stream flows for fish, and irrigation purposes.

Stage 3 offers flexibility for residents to decide where and how they cut back on water use; however, it is critical reductions are implemented. Here are some ways to conserve in Stage 3. Please note vegetable garden watering and drip irrigation are exempt from restrictions.

• Reduce the lawn irrigation on your property by decreasing run times, cutting back on the number of watering days and refraining from sprinkling certain lawn areas. Lawns naturally go dormant in the summer months and return with fall rains.
• Avoid washing vehicles or boats unnecessarily, unless for safety reasons (windows and headlights).
• Sweep outdoor surfaces such as driveways or decks with a broom rather than a hose or power washing.
• Retrofit old, inefficient or leaking irrigation systems.
• Add mulch/topsoil to aid in landscape water retention so you can decrease sprinkler run times.

RESOURCES:

• Information about water restrictions may be viewed on the City’s website with conservation tips at this link.
• The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart program. For helpful tips on saving water and information on local watering restrictions, visit teamwatersmart.ca.
• Province of BC drought information.

April 26, 2023

LINK TO PDF

On May 1, the City of Parksville will move to Stage 2 outdoor watering restrictions. Stage 2 means sprinkling can only occur on even days for even-numbered houses and on odd days for odd-numbered houses. Sprinkling is permitted for a maximum of two hours between 7 am to 10 am or 7 pm to 10 pm. Stage 2 will be in effect until otherwise advised.

Taking conservation measures early, before our water supplies come under stress, is essential to ensure we can maintain an adequate water supply throughout the hot dry summers we have come to expect.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Sprinkler watering - odd numbered civic addresses may water on odd numbered days and even numbered civic addresses may water on even numbered days. Watering times are 7 am to 10 am OR 7 pm to 10 pm for a maximum of two hours of total allocated watering per day.
• Vegetable gardens and fruit trees - exempt from all watering restrictions.
• Watering of ornamental shrubs, flowers and trees - restricted to a hand-held container or a hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle if watered outside of the times permitted.
• Washing of vehicles, boats and buildings - vehicles, boats and exterior building surfaces may be washed using City supplied potable water using a hand-held container or hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
• Washing of sidewalks and driveways - persons may use City supplied potable water to wash sidewalks, driveways or parking lots.
• Swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs, and water features - may be filled with water.

Please note vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions and businesses which require water for operations are also exempt.

Detailed information about the City’s water restrictions is available on the City’s website. The City of Parksville is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs. Please direct questions to bylaw@parksville.ca.

For more information:
Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications
communications@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073

October 7, 2022

LINK TO PDF

With the move to Stage 4 Watering Restrictions earlier this week and the ongoing drought affecting most of Vancouver Island, City staff wish to clarify a few points as well as inform our citizens of recent updates to our website.

• The Ministry of Forests, under our Conditional Water Licence, ordered the City of Parksville to implement Stage 4 Watering Restrictions and provided an Enabling Order to reduce dam flows to best prolong the dam water resources to provide benefits to the river ecology. The City of Parksville is in close contact with the Ministry and is in compliance with the order.
• We have had an unpredicted hot dry September and the beginning of October is continuing that trend. This caused the river base flow (all contributing sources other than dam flow) to be well below normal. Because we can release water flow from the dam, we are able to supplement the river water levels to support the ecological health of the river.
• The quantity of water drawn in by the treatment plant is very minimal compared to the flow in the river. To help support river ecology, we have ramped down the water treatment plant production to a minimal flow and increased our well water production.
• Our wells (groundwater source) are in a very healthy condition as stores have been recharged while we used more river water during rainier seasons. We had several of the wells artesian this year (water is overspilling from the top of the well).

To provide as much information about our water sources, supply, and usage and address some commonly asked questions, the City website was updated with the following information:

Arrowsmith Water Service section

• Charts and Data (new)
  • Dam Flow and Base Flow 2017-2021
  • Monthly Water Consumption 2012-2022
  • Rainfall Records
  • River Intake and Population 2017-2022
  • Water Consumption by User 2020/2021
  • Water Consumption 2013-2021 and Restrictions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Operation Updates – most recent ASW/ERWS bulletin

Arrowsmith Dam section (updated)

• Arrowsmith Dam Lake Levels
• Dam Outflow Volumes

Through the Arrowsmith Water Service and Englishman River Water Service Boards and Parksville City Council approval, staff are currently working on:

• Water Resiliency Planning - As a water supplier, we strive to provide a consistent supply of the best quality and safest drinking water to our community. A critical component in providing safe drinking water is having contingency plans for unexpected emergencies. Also, as we move into hotter temperatures and longer periods without rain, we need to expand public water education and conservation campaigns. In 2023, City staff will undertake water resiliency planning. The objective of the planning process is to review the assumptions made in the existing water supply plan, outline measures to mitigate against the impacts of climate change and provide alternative supply sources, respond and recover from various types of emergency events as quickly and efficiently as possible, and protect the ecological systems from which we draw water.
• Five-year Fish Monitoring Plan - The program is required as part of the post-construction commitment with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The purpose is to ensure measures and standards are in place and conducted according to the conditions of the authorization/permit during operations to protect fish habitat. The intent is to monitor and report on the effects of the river intake on the fish population of the Englishman River.

For additional information about watering restrictions, please refer to Let’s Talk Parksville.

For more information:
Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications
dtardiff@parskville.ca; 250 954-3073

October 4, 2022

LINK TO PDF

The Province of BC recently elevated East Vancouver Island and other areas in the province to provincial Drought Level 4. The province is advising those who live in drought areas of level 3 and higher to reduce their water usage. Aligned with the provincial drought level, and following a request from our Ministry contacts, the City is moving immediately to Stage 4 Water Restrictions, a comprehensive watering ban.

We have experienced higher than normal temperatures and this, combined with an extensive period with little or no precipitation since early July, results in adverse affects on local freshwater resources. The City is increasing well production as our groundwater reserve is in a healthy condition. This will allow the City under the Ministry’s direction to reduce, prolong, and maintain the baseflow of the Englishman River by releasing water from the Arrowsmith Dam at a controlled release rate during October. On average at this time of year, we would normally have a steady source of rain to replenish the low end of season lake reserves for ecological habitat.

This comprehensive ban on outdoor watering is required to ensure essential water needs are met for drinking water, hygiene and fire protection priorities. Stage 4 Watering Restrictions include a ban on all lawn watering activities and residents are not permitted to wash vehicles, boats or siding, nor fill fountains, pools or hot tubs. Stage 4 Watering Restrictions remain in effect until further notice as warm, dry weather forecasts are expected for at least a few more weeks and aquifers in the region may take extra time to recharge when the rain eventually arrives.

Detailed information about City of Parksville watering restrictions may be viewed on our website. Details on water consumption, river flows etc. will be updated later this week. The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs.

April 25, 2022

LINK TO PDF

On May 1, the City of Parksville will move to Stage 2 outdoor watering restrictions. Stage 2 means sprinkling can only occur on even days for even-numbered houses and on odd days for odd-numbered houses. Sprinkling is permitted for a maximum of two hours between 7 am to 10 am or 7 pm to 10 pm. Stage 2 will be in effect until further notice.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Sprinkler watering - odd numbered civic addresses may water on odd numbered days and even numbered civic addresses may water on even numbered days. Watering times are 7 am to 10 am OR 7 pm to 10 pm for a maximum of two hours of total allocated watering per day.
• Vegetable gardens and fruit trees - exempt from all watering restrictions.
• Watering of ornamental shrubs, flowers and trees - restricted to a hand-held container or a hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle if watered outside of the times permitted.
• Washing of vehicles, boats and buildings - vehicles, boats and exterior building surfaces may be washed using City supplied potable water using a hand-held container or hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
• Washing of sidewalks and driveways - persons may use City supplied potable water to wash sidewalks, driveways or parking lots.
• Swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs and water features - may be filled with water.

Please note vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions and businesses which require water for operations are also exempt.

Taking conservation measures early, before our water supplies come under stress, is essential to ensure we can maintain an adequate water supply throughout the hot dry summers we have come to expect.

Detailed information about the City’s water restrictions may be found on the City of Parksville website. The City is a partner in the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Team WaterSmart programs. Please direct questions to ops@parksville.ca.