Pack up your swimwear and head to the nearest beach!
This weekend, not only are we experiencing unseasonably hot weather, but the Province has also advised a reduction in water use for residents in Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
The advisory calls for an overall 30% reduction in ground- and underwater use, targeted towards residents, industries, farmers, and municipalities.
These measures are necessary because of the dangerously low water flow levels in several important salmon streams that are endangering local fish populations – particularly the Koksilah river.
The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development is monitoring river levels and say they may upgrade the drought level if the water continues to impact stream flows and water supplies.
Below are some water conservation tips from the province:
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, taps and toilets.
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 use.
- Recycle water used in industrial operations.
- Use water-efficient methods and equipment.
