Summerland is moving to Drought Level 3, effective immediately, but could return to Level 4 later in the year depending on spring precipitation and summer temperatures.
The district had been under stricter Level 4 restrictions since November, but council lowered the level at a special committee of the whole meeting today after reviewing updated snowpack and reservoir data. Despite the change, local water supplies remain well below normal, signalling continued strain for the community.
Readings from March 27 show headwaters at 48 per cent of the historical average, while Isintok Lake sits at just 29 per cent. The below-average levels mean ongoing water scarcity, with potential impacts on agriculture, landscaping and household use. Council will revisit restrictions after the spring freshet, when seasonal runoff has peaked.
Under Drought Level 3, agricultural producers, parks, cemeteries and golf courses must reduce water use by at least 20 per cent. That reduction lowers allocations from 800 mm to 640 mm, and from 1,727 mm to 1,381 mm for greenhouses. For farmers and growers, this could affect crop planning and yields as the irrigation season progresses.
Irrigators are being urged to closely track their water use, as penalties are based on total seasonal consumption. The district cautions that a return to Drought Level 4 later this year is possible, which would bring even stricter limits.
Residents will also see restrictions early in the season. The district is starting at Stage 1 for residential watering, limiting outdoor water use to three days per week based on odd and even addresses. These limits may tighten if dry conditions persist.
Summerland relies on 11 upland reservoirs for drinking water, agriculture and other community needs. While the district has invested millions in dam upgrades and maintenance, water supply still depends heavily on precipitation and environmental conditions.
Officials say conservation efforts across the community will play a key role in avoiding stricter measures. If reductions are not enough, the province could step in with mandatory requirements.
“We’re starting the irrigation season at Drought Level 3 based on the best information available at this time. We will continue to monitor stream flows and reservoir levels in the weeks and months ahead, and take extra steps as necessary to ensure responsible water use in this time of drought,” said Mayor Doug Holmes.
