B.C. government pleads with province to conserve water

Water conservation is top of mind as drought conditions are worsening across B.C.

Many parts of B.C. are experiencing drought conditions we normally wouldn’t see until later in the year.

There are five drought levels with five being the highest.

Currently, the Vancouver Island basins, Bulkley-Lakes basin and Fort Nelson basin are under level five which means adverse impacts from drought are almost certain.

Level four drought conditions are in place over much of the province including the East and West Kootenay, much of northern B.C., the upper Okanagan and the lower mainland.

Level four means adverse impacts are likely.

Over two-thirds of B.C. is under drought levels four or five.

Provincial officials said following local water restrictions is necessary to ensure drought levels have less of an impact on the economy, environment and health of residents.

The province has a program in place to reimburse First Nations and local authorities for the costs of transporting drinking water if levels reach a critical point.

The B.C. government is pleading with residents to reduce personal water use, such as taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while shaving or brushing teeth and running full loads of dishes or laundry.

This also applies to outdoor use and British Columbians are being asked to water lawns sparingly, use rain barrels and check for leaking pipes or faucets.

Current drought levels for all regions in the province can be found here.

Josiah Spyker
Josiah Spyker
Josiah is an integral part of our East Kootenay team. Since joining Vista Radio in 2021, he has combined his love of community and sport in his reporting for the news team, while also stepping in as an on-air announcer.

Continue Reading

chnv Now playing play

ckkc Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Kootenay real estate sees sustained momentum

Real estate in the Kootenays continues to outperform long-term trends, with activity staying above the 10-year average.

Drug alert issued for entire Interior Health Region

A drug alert has been issued across all Interior Health regions following an increase in the detection of carfentanil in Down (opioid). 

Category 2 open fire prohibition coming into affect Friday

Category 2 open burning will be prohibited across the Southeast Fire Centre starting Friday, July 11 at 12 p.m.  

Join the Wildfire Awareness Party at Lakeside Park in Nelson on July 10

The Nelson & Area Wildfire Risk Reduction Committee is inviting residents and visitors in the Kootenays to take part in a family-friendly Wildfire Awareness Party at Lakeside Park on Thursday, July 10, from 2 to 6 p.m.

WestJet adding more flights on B.C. routes

WestJet is increasing the frequency of several B.C. routes, starting next week. 
- Advertisement -