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July 17, 2020 - 5:00 PM
Stage 3 watering restrictions are now in effect in the Southeast Kelowna and Crawford areas.
The City said in a media release that the recent rising temperatures and excessive water use is impacting reservoir levels.
"At this time, the restriction applies to outdoor potable water usage only as we need to alleviate pressure on our potable water supply in this specific area," utility services manager Kevin Van Vliet said in the release.
"We need to ease demand on the system to ensure that quality water supply is prioritized for drinking, hygiene, and fire protection."
Image Credit: City of Kelowna
• Manual sprinklers may operate between 6 - 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. - 12 a.m. on designated day
• Automatic sprinklers may operate from 12 - 6 a.m. on designated day
• Fruit trees and vegetable gardens may be watered Tuesdays and Fridays between 6 – 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 12 a.m., as required to maintain plant health
• Residents in these areas are also not permitted to pressure wash houses, driveways or outdoor furniture, fill pools or hot tubs and wash cars using potable water supply at this time
To avoid Stage 4 water restrictions, which prohibits outdoor watering, a reduction in water demand is necessary, the City said. Property owners in the affected area that have dual access to both potable and non-potable water supply should switch to non-potable water for irrigation needs as soon as possible. Residents seeking assistance to switch over can call 250-469-8520 to help identify local contractors.
The restrictions also do not apply to properties with Farm Status through B.C. Assessment.
“These next two weeks are typically when we experience peak demand each year and it becomes a compounded issue when many properties in the area are using potable water for irrigation,” Van Vliet said. “Once we get through this peak time, and as properties in the area shift irrigation systems to the non-potable water source, and as water meters are installed identifying leaks on private property that need repairs, and as tiered fees are implemented, future concerns about supply capacity are not expected to be a continuing issue.”
The rest of Kelowna is operating under a Stage 1 water restriction stage. Stage 1 properties with an odd number address can water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and those with an even address number can water on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Impacted residents who need assistance with automatic irrigation systems can connect with a WaterSmart representative, or for general questions, at 250-469-8520.
For more information about watering restrictions, visit the city's website.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED / City of Kelowna
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