Kamloops declares Drought Level 4; water restrictions to come

Under Drought Level 4:

Lawn watering using a sprinkler or by hand is reduced to one day per week.
Watering of trees, shrubs, plants (including food-producing plants and crops), and flowers using sprinkler is reduced to one day a week, but drip irrigation remains permitted three days a week.
Washing driveways, sidewalks, patios, buildings, and other hard surfaces is permitted by pressure washer only.

“Every drop counts during heightened periods of drought,” said Jen Fretz, the City’s Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and Civic Operations Director. “The actions residents and businesses take now will help reduce demand on our water system and support our community as dry conditions continue.”

Watering days are are determined by the last two digits of your legal street address. With addresses ending in 00 to 30, watering day is on Tuesdays, those ending in 31 to 60 can water on Wednesdays, and those ending in 61 to 99 can water on Thursdays.

The preferred tome for automated watering is between midnight and 7:00 a.m., with irrigation prohibited between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

“Residents are reminded that a brown lawn is a normal response to hot, dry weather and does not increase wildfire risk. Dormant grass will recover when cooler, wetter conditions return,” added the city statement.

“Residents are encouraged to focus watering efforts on trees and shrubs using permitted methods such as drip irrigation. Healthy trees and well-maintained shrubbery contribute to the urban canopy and can play an important role in creating more resilient landscapes.”

The City said Drought Level 4 restrictions will remain in effect until conditions improve and officials determine it is appropriate to move to a lower response level.

City staff added they’re also doing their part to reduce water use during elevated drought levels.

“Irrigation at parks and other municipal landscapes will be reduced in accordance with the Drought Response Plan,” said the City.

“Some treed areas, sports fields, and recreational spaces will continue to receive targeted watering to maintain safe playing surfaces and support community recreation. These spaces host leagues, tournaments, community events, and provide important places for residents to gather, stay active, and connect with one another.”

However, water parks are not affected by Drought Level 4 restrictions, as they are managed through the City’s Extreme Heat Response Plan. City staff said they will remain open to help residents stay cool during periods of extreme heat.

You can find more details about water conservation and Kamloops’s water restriction levels here.

“Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the current restrictions and look for simple ways to reduce water use at home, including fixing leaking faucets and irrigation systems, sweeping driveways and sidewalks instead of washing them with water, and running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only,” said City staff.

by Elora McCormack

Kamloops declares Drought Level 4; water restrictions to come

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