Restrictions on water use reverted to Stage 1 effective Oct. 11 for the region’s South Pender system. That Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) water supply, which has approximately 917 residential, farm, business and institutional connections, had been on Stage 3 (acute) level rules since July 14.
An SCRD press release issued Oct. 11 stated that the change was being made “cautiously” as the system’s sources, Harris and McNeill Lakes were recharging “slowly." It detailed that while staff were “confident” additional rainfall would continue to support recovery of water levels in those lakes, they would continue to monitor water supply and community demand “with a view to changing water conservation regulations if required."
At Stage 1, clients are permitted to water food-producing crops with a hand-held hose with a nozzle, handheld container or drip-irrigation at any time and other outdoor plantings on a restricted basis. Washing of vehicles, boats and outdoor surfaces with a hand-held hose with nozzle or a pressure washer is permitted, as is filling of pools, hot tubs and other outdoor water features.
All SCRD managed water systems are placed on Stage 1 restrictions starting May 1, which last until at least Sept. 30 annually. Effective Oct. 4, the regional district lifted all restrictions for the water supplies that it manages, with the exceptions of South Pender and the Keats Island Eastbourne system.
Stage 4 (severe) water restrictions remain in place for Eastbourne. The release noted that “The aquifer that supplies water for residents on Keats Island has not recharged. The SCRD will provide updates on Eastbourne through the community and online channels including the SCRD website and social media."
The SCRD also reminded regional residents that a supply update for all regional water systems will be part of its Oct. 12 committee of the whole meeting.
