The City of Kelowna has moved to Stage 2 water restrictions effective immediately as ongoing dry conditions and rising water demand continue to strain local water supplies.
City officials say the restrictions are intended to reduce outdoor water use and help preserve water supplies during continued drought conditions across the region. Ed Hoppe, the city’s water quality and customer care manager, said reducing water use now could help avoid the need for stricter measures later in the season.
Under the restrictions, outdoor watering is limited to specific days based on street addresses. Residents with odd-numbered addresses may water on Tuesdays and Saturdays, while those with even-numbered addresses may water on Wednesdays and Sundays. Watering times vary depending on the type of irrigation system being used.
The City of Kelowna is asking all water customers to reduce non-essential water use, including unnecessary lawn irrigation and outdoor cleaning. The city said the same conservation measures are being applied to municipal facilities and operations as it works toward a 20 per cent reduction in water use under Stage 2 restrictions.
Officials are encouraging residents to follow watering schedules, inspect irrigation systems for leaks or overspray, hand-water plants only when necessary and avoid water waste caused by runoff or excessive irrigation.
Hoppe said the city is also working with agricultural producers by collaborating on water management tools and providing information and flexibility to help ensure water is shared fairly throughout the system.
Stage 2 restrictions are also in effect for customers of the Glenmore-Ellison Improvement District and for customers supplied by the McCulloch Lake Reservoir through the City of Kelowna water system.
More information on outdoor watering rules and water conservation measures is available through the City of Kelowna.
