THE OKANAGAN’S WATER STORY...

There is little doubt the Okanagan is on the front lines of climate change.

As this summer’s hot, dry weather continues in the Okanagan, the B.C. Government has now declared the region in Level 3 drought. This is an increase from the Level 2 drought that was declared on July 20. And of course, this stretch of record-breaking heat and dryness follows on the heels of this spring’s historic flooding.

Level 3 drought calls for a voluntary 30% reduction in water use for both surface and groundwater users.

WHAT YOU CAN DO?

Find water restrictions for your neighbourhood using the drop down menu below.

If you water (not everyone does)... make sure to follow the tips here to get the most from your water.

BC Drought Map as of Sept 1, 2017

BC Drought Map as of Aug 23, 2017

The models have been showing us that these extreme weather events are going to become more common in our valley, and beyond. What some have called a “New Normal.”

As we work to find solutions to these events, Make Water Work is aimed at preparing residents with resilient landscapes that can handle wet and dry years, and help ensure a sustainable water supply for our valley.

We are also working with the agricultural community, industry, commercial and institutional users, local governments and the Okanagan’s water suppliers, ensuring a coordinated valley-wide response to our water challenges, recognizing that the water of the Okanagan is all connected. We are all part of ‘One valley. One water.’

To that end, we issued our second Okanagan Drought Bulletin on Sept. 1 with information on the local water supply situation. You can find the bulletin here. We will be providing additional updates as they become necessary. You can find our Aug. 22 Drought Bulletin and more information on our Okanagan Basin Water Board – Drought Information page.

For more information on what you can do in and around your home, and in our community, to be WaterWise year-round, visit www.OkWaterWise.ca.