The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) has declared Stage 2 outdoor water use restrictions for all regional water customers. All those on the Pender Harbour systems remain at Stage 1 until further notice.
“This decision is made due to prolonged dry weather, peaking outdoor water consumption, and the dry weather forecast ahead,” said Dave Crosby, SCRD manager of utility services.
The SCRD has begun releasing water from Chapman Lake, earlier than usual, following a winter with an unusually low snow pack.
“Despite the growing awareness about local and global droughts, regional water customers used more water in May than other typical years,” the SCRD said in a release. “From June 3 onward there has been a steep climb in water consumption. With a short-term dry forecast and predictions of a hot, dry summer, we are asking the community to act swiftly to help to reduce their outdoor water use.”
Sprinklers, soaker hoses, irrigation systems and other watering devices can be used for outdoor watering under the Stage 2 schedule.
For even addresses, outdoor watering is allowed Thursday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. For odd addresses, outdoor water use is allowed on Wednesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Hand held hoses with shut-off devices can be used anytime for watering trees, shrubs, flowers or vegetables, as well as washing vehicles or boats.
Hosing of sidewalks and driveways, windows or exterior building surfaces is not allowed except to pressure-wash surfaces to prepare for paint, etc., or as required by law for safety.
Rain sensors are now required on all irrigation systems. This prevents irrigation systems from running when it’s raining. Low flow drip irrigation systems, including micro-drip and drip tape systems, are exempt from the watering restrictions because they are water-conserving systems. This exemption is particularly useful for the agricultural community.
Permits for watering beyond the allowable times in order to establish new lawns (seed or sod) will not be issued at Stage 2. Permits issued during Stage 1 may be used until their end date, following the available hours in Stage 2. New lawns should not be established at this time.
Water Conservation education and enforcement have increased patrols. Avoid fines and conserve your drinking water supply by following the sprinkling schedule. For more information, contact the SCRD at 604-885-6806 or the Town of Gibsons 604-886-2274. Visit www.scrd.ca/Sprinkling-Regulations for details on water use restrictions.
