Residents served by Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) water systems will be subject to the region’s highest level of water conservation beginning Friday as drought conditions continue to affect local water supplies. The district says the decision follows low stream flows, below-average groundwater levels in some regional aquifers and forecasts for continued hot, dry weather. Under Stage 4, lawn watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems is prohibited. Flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees may still be watered by hand or with a hose equipped with a shutoff nozzle between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. The restrictions also prohibit filling swimming pools, hot tubs and decorative garden ponds. Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt, as are commercial businesses that require water for normal operations. Properties supplied by private wells are not subject to the restrictions, although conservation is encouraged. The Stage 4 measures apply to all RDN-operated water service areas, including Nanoose Bay Peninsula, French Creek/Sandpiper, San Pareil, Surfside and Whiskey Creek. The district notes other municipalities and water providers set their own conservation levels, and residents should check with their local provider to confirm which restrictions apply in their community. The restrictions take effect July 24 and will remain in place until further notice.
