Map of the area impacted by the Russet Bluff water advisories (Image Credit: Cariboo Regional District)

By Elora McCormack

Boil Water Notice

Boil water notice and water quality advisory issued for Russet Bluff

May 8, 2026 | 2:18 PM

WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. — The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has issued a boil water notice and water quality advisory for the Russet Bluff Water System near Williams Lake.

The boil water notice was issued as the Russet Bluff Water System transitions to the lower well to meet seasonal demands.

The CRD said the lower well draws from the untreated groundwater source, which is at risk of pathogens.

All users of the Russet Bluff Water System are urged to bring their water to a rolling boil for at lease one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, fruit and vegetables, and watering animals.

The CRD said it has also issued a water quality advisory due to manganese concentrations exceeding Health Canada’s maximum allowable levels.

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“Interior Health has advised that boiling water from the system will increase its manganese concentration and advising residents to secure an alternative water source to provide infants and young children with any water for consumption or food preparation,” said the CRD.

The CRD said a small amount of manganese is essential for human health, Health Canada said elevated levels can pose a health risk, especially for infants and young children.

“Infants and young children are the most vulnerable, as their bodies absorb more manganese and cannot regulate or eliminate it as readily as adults,” said the CRD.

“The water from this system must not be used to prepare formula for bottle-fed infants – bottled water or another safe alternative source must be used instead. Please note that boiling water will not reduce manganese levels.”

The CRD said the notice and alert will be in effect until further notice.

by Elora McCormack

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Boil water notice and water quality advisory issued for Russet Bluff

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