WATCH: We’re still a few days from “official” summer, but unofficially it’s already the hot season.
VANCOUVER – Residents of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and Haida Gwaii are being urged by the provincial government to reduce water consumption.
These regions have reached Level 3 drought conditions, which call for voluntary water use reductions of 20 per cent or more. This includes municipal, agricultural and industrial users.
Staff with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations anticipate the region will likely experience significant water supply shortages in 2015, unless there is substantial precipitation between now and the end of June.
While groundwater measurements taken at provincial observation wells in these regions currently indicate normal seasonal levels, shallow wells connected to streams are likely vulnerable to going dry earlier than usual this year.
The drought level may be updated if there is no rain and the river levels remain low.
Level 4 is the highest rating and officials will look at regional stream flows, water storage capacity, ecological concerns, weather forecasts and impacts on water users to determine if the level needs to be changed. If conditions reach Level 4, provincial water managers could temporarily suspend short-term water permits or industrial water licences in affected watersheds.
Water conservation tips:
At home:
- Limit outdoor watering.
- Don’t water during the heat of the day or when it’s windy.
- Consider planting drought-tolerant vegetation.
- Take shorter showers.
- Don’t leave the tap running.
- Install water-efficient showerheads and toilets.
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On the farm:
- Implement an irrigation scheduling program using real-time weather data.
- Schedule irrigation to match crop needs and soil storage capacity.
- Improve water system efficiencies and check for leaks.
- Focus on high value crops and livestock.
Industry:
- Reduce non-essential water usage.
- Recycle water used in industrial operations.
- Utilize water-efficient methods and equipment.
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