| In response to unprecedented drought years, City of Parksville staff met with regional water purveyors to review and propose improvements to the City’s water framework in place since 2016. The new framework approved by Council through Water Service System Bylaw 1320, responds to changing conditions, the impacts of these conditions, public response, and water system requirements. City conservation levels provide a coordinated approach with regional water providers who can determine the conservation levels specific to their needs. From June 1 to October 31, as a partner in the Arrowsmith Water Service, the City operates through an order from the Province of BC which regulates the flow release from the Arrowsmith Lake Reservoir. The provincial enabling order determines when water conservation levels will be implemented to ensure an adequate water supply for the Englishman River to support the in-stream fish environment and the residents of Parksville. Changes to the City’s new water conservation framework (included with this release) are highlighted here:  Restriction period extended to October 31.This change responds to the trend of longer, hotter summers. In recent years, restrictions have been in place beyond the previously defined September 30 end date.  New level 3 limits watering days to one day per week; odd-numbered houses on Monday and even-numbered houses on Thursday.Adjusting this voluntary level to include tangible and measurable water conservation will provide clear direction to residents on how to reduce water use and provide clarity on specific actions that can be taken to limit water use should drought conditions become more severe. New level 4 to be identical to previous stage 4 but with vehicle washing allowed when a shutoff nozzle is used.Vehicle washing has minimal impact on our water supply and with car wash businesses open during level 4, water would be used to wash cars regardless of whether it was at home or at a car wash business. It should be noted vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all water conservation levels as are businesses which require water for operations, essential municipal sports fields and nurseries. Utility notices mailed to homeowners in late March will include additional details about changes to the City’s water conservation framework as well as indoor and outdoor water conservation tips. Please refer to Let’s Talk Parksville for more information. |
PV – New Outdoor Water Framework
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