The Capital Regional District (CRD) is encouraging Salt Spring Island and Southern Gulf Island residents and visitors to conserve their water.
These regions are currently experiencing sustained droughts with little or no rain forecasted in the short-term.
Currently, most of eastern Vancouver Island is rated at Drought Level 4, which is affecting water scarcity and low flows, while western Vancouver Island is rated at Drought Level 3.
Drought Level 5 is rated as the most severe, having adverse impacts to socio-economic values and/or ecosystems.
The entire Thompson-Nicola region, the Cariboo, Shuswap and Okanagan are also experiencing drought-like conditions and water scarcity following the recent extreme heat wave.
Salt Spring Island and the Gulf Islands will need to conserve their water use to preserve the drinking water supply.
The CRD is encouraging a decrease in indoor water use and a stop to all outdoor water use with some exceptions including limited hand watering of trees, shrubs and vegetables.
Otherwise, CRD guidelines are telling residents to avoid watering lawns, turf, or boulevards, washing of outdoor surfaces like driveways, washing of vehicles or boats, and power off motion-activated sprinklers.
There are a number of CRD-owned water systems currently under elevated water conservation restrictions.
To see details specific to your local area visit the CRD website here.
