Water supply of southwestern Manitoba town in jeopardy

The Town of Virden, Man., is urging residents to conserve water. (CTV News Winnipeg)

The Town of Virden is urging residents to conserve water after learning its water supply can’t support the community.

On Oct. 10, the town issued a statement on its website to its approximately 3,000 residents that it would be transitioning off its current aquifer following the discovery of “seriously low” levels.

“Basically, it’s low and can’t support us going forward,” the town’s mayor Tina Williams told CTV News in an email on Oct. 10.

The town is asking people to reduce their water consumption where possible as it works to increase the supply.

“We are focused on getting (a) new well going now and then will look back at (the) current aquifer,” Williams said.

The town said that’ll be happening in a couple weeks.

“The office of drinking water, Manitoba Health, Prairie Mountain Health along with other provincial departments, are in constant communication with the town,” the town’s statement said.

“All representatives from these departments recognize the critical nature of this matter and are working with the Town and (Manitoba Water Services Board) to ensure all permits and applications are expedited.”