Water Conservation Efforts Essential - Comprehensive Water Ban
October 4, 2022
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.
