With record-breaking temperatures this week, Stage 2 restrictions are now in effect for all Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) water systems as of Wednesday, July 10.
The RDCK currently operates 18 water systems, including Balfour, Burton, Duhamel, Edgewood, Erickson-Arrow Creek, Fauquier, Grandview Properties, Lister, Lucas Road, McDonald Creek, Riondel, Rosebery Highlands, Sanca Park, South Slocan, West Robson, Woodbury Village, Woodland Heights, and Ymir.
Water conservation measures have been implemented due to increased demands, the water treatment plant production reaching near-capacity, and extremely hot and dry weather, which is expected to continue in the forecast.
Stage 2 means watering lawns, gardens, trees, and shrubs using a sprinkler or irrigation system is only permitted between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. or between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Overnight watering is not allowed. Watering using a hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle, watering can, or drip irrigation is still permitted at any time.
Stage 2 water conservation measures will remain in effect until further notice. Stricter water restrictions may be required if demand increases significantly, hot and dry weather persists, or the reservoir declines to critically low levels.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay will notify residents via www.rdck.ca/water.
Water conservation tips:
• Divide your yard - Separate irrigation zones so that grass can be watered separately and more frequently than groundcover, shrubs, and trees.
• Only water things that grow - Ensure sprinklers are adjusted properly to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
• Utilize mulch - Mulch acts as a protective cover around plants to keep soil moist and discourage weed growth. When grass clippings decay naturally on lawns, they release valuable nutrients and encourage natural soil aeration from earthworms.
• Try natural landscaping and xeriscaping techniques - Native plants and drought-tolerant plant species require less maintenance and less water.
