Stage four water restrictions are now in place for a majority of the Regional District of Nanaimo's area, however municipalities in Nanaimo and Parksville remain on reduced limitations. (Dreamstime)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

drought conditions

Stage four water restrictions put in place across most RDN systems

Jul 23, 2024 | 9:35 AM

NANAIMO — Weeks without significant rain coupled with abnormally high temperatures are forcing a tightening of the tap.

The Regional District of Nanaimo announced the implementation of stage four water restrictions, effective Tuesday, July 23, until further notice for a majority of its service areas on the central Island.

Restrictions prohibit sprinkling of any kind, including for newly seeded grass, and no washing of driveways, sidewalks, parking lots or building exteriors, as well as no filling of swimming pools, hot tubs or garden ponds.

“The provincial government elevated eastern Vancouver Island to Provincial Drought Level 4 due to low flow levels in rivers and streams throughout the region and below-average groundwater levels in some regional aquifers,” the RDN noted.

Limits will be in place for all RDN watersheds including Nanoose Bay, River’s Edge, French Creek, Surfside, San Pareil, Whiskey Creek, Westurne Heights, Melrose Terrace and Decourcey.

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Commercial activities remain unaffected and those with private wells are exempt.

“Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions, even in Stage 4. Drip irrigation is permitted between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Hand watering of gardens is permitted but must be done using a hand-held container or a hose equipped with a shutoff device.”

Stage three restrictions remain for the City of Parksville, District of Lantzville and the Qualicum Bay Horne Lake Waterworks.

Both the City of Nanaimo and Bowser area are on stage two, while the Town of Qualicum Beach stays on stage one.

“This comprehensive watering ban aims to reduce the current pressure from non-essential water use on surface water and groundwater sources vulnerable to ongoing drought. Water for new homes and businesses has been accounted for in development planning.”

Information on current water restrictions across the region is available on the RDN’s website.

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