Water restrictions are being partially rescinded across the central Island, as drought levels drop. (Dreamstime)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

cautious approach

Water restrictions downgraded across much of central Vancouver Island

Oct 5, 2023 | 9:28 AM

NANAIMO — Fall rains are alleviating water supply concerns across the region.

The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) downgraded water restrictions on Thursday, Oct. 5 from the most strict stage four, to a more relaxed stage three, effective immediately.

Changes impacted all areas under the watch of the regional district, with the exception of Decourcey (Yellow Point area) and Surfside (near Qualicum Beach) which remain at stage four “due to operational needs”, according to the RDN.

“The recent rainfall has provided a slight increase in stream flows and curbed outdoor water demand in our communities,” the RDN said. “Under Stage 3 restrictions, limited lawn watering and outdoor and vehicle washing are allowed but residents are asked to voluntarily conserve water wherever possible.”

Areas down to stage three include Nanoose Bay, French Creek, Whiskey Creek, Parksville, Lantzville and Deep Bay.

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Stage three restrictions include only watering on even or odd days, according to your home’s address, and only between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., or 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Additional ways to limit water usage in stage three restrictions include limiting the number of lawn watering days overall, sweeping outside areas instead of hosing or pressure washing and using additional mulch to aid in plant water retention.

The City of Nanaimo sits at the minimum stage one restrictions, along with Bowser and North Cedar.

Town of Qualicum Beach and the Horne Lake waterworks have no restrictions around water use in place.

Drought levels continue to drop, albeit slowly, on the central Island.

Eastern Vancouver Island currently sits at a three on the zero to five scale for drought, as of Thursday. The region was at a five just two weeks ago.

An overwhelming majority of areas across B.C. remain at a four or five, indicating severe levels of drought.

More rain is in the forecast for early next week in Nanaimo and Oceanside, with clear skies either side. It’s a pattern which officials hope will relieve drought conditions without localized flooding or other issues.

Information on specific water restrictions across the mid Island can be found on the RDN website.

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