File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

Kamloops Water Restrictions Incoming

City of Kamloops to increase water use restrictions as region experiences extreme drought

Aug 3, 2023 | 11:21 AM

KAMLOOPS — The City of Kamloops will increase water use restrictions as the region experiences an extreme level of drought.

In a news release issued Thursday (Aug. 3) morning, the city says the restrictions will begin Aug. 14 to help conserve water supply and protect the environment.

The impending restrictions include a ban on outdoor watering and irrigating, except for hand-held, spring-loaded nozzles. Additionally, boat and vehicle washing will only be allowed at car-washing businesses unless it’s washing for safety purposes. Pressure washing for aesthetic purposes is also not allowed.

The B.C. government’s water management branch updated its drought levels Thursday, showing the North and South Thompson basins, as well as the Salmon River, at Drought Level 5 on a scale of one to five. Elsewhere, the Lower Thompson and Nicola basins were upgraded to Drought Level 4.

The city states it has already adjusted its irrigation systems to reduce water use by 25 per cent. However, irrigation of playing fields and public spaces will continue to prevent severe damage or loss of public assets and spaces. Although if drought conditions continue and further a reduction of irrigation is required, field bookings may be impacted to protect them from damage.

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More information will be provided at a city news conference on Tuesday, Aug. 8.