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Water Supply Levels Update

Jump Lake currently at full storage

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed May 20, 2015 11:01 AM

Summary

This is the third release on water supply levels. Water levels are stable; inflow to Jump Lake has continued, but starting to diminish. Storage is currently at 100% of full. We are hopeful that we will remain close to 100% for the next 4 weeks. Fisheries release to the Nanaimo River has started.

At this time, there is no need to increase Conservation Level above Level 1, contingent on future updates. Conservation Level 1 will come into effect on June 1. Nanaimo Engineering & Public Works staff continue to monitor water levels closely, and will issue periodic updates.

Link to Strategic Plan: This supports the strategic priority of water, and encourages conservation

Key Points

  • With zero snow pack this past winter, the City is concerned that water supply may be stressed. Rain will help keep the reservoir level full, but long stretches of dry weather can deplete the reservoir quickly. Reservoir Level is at 100% of full as of 11 May 2015, thanks to rain.
  • Level 1 watering restrictions will start as normal this year on June 1. Staff will assess weather patterns, reservoir level and water consumption weekly. We will communicate status updates to the public regularly, including whether the conservation level has elevated or remained at Level 1.
  • For Conservation Level 1, even numbered addresses can water on the EVEN days of the month (e.g. June 2, 4, 6). Odd numbered addresses can water on the ODD days of the month (e.g. June 1, 3, 5)
  • For Conservation Level 2, even numbered addresses can water on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Odd numbered addresses can water on Thursdays and Sundays.

Quotes

"Summer watering restrictions are an annual occurrence, helps ensure that there is water available for all, and keeps sufficient water aside for fire fighting. Restrictions also help us be mindful of all water uses, and help keep a conservation mindset to protect this precious resource. This year, due to the low snow pack, we want to ramp up communications with the public, so there are no surprises if we find it necessary to shift to Level 2 restrictions.

Our current view, with Jump Creek Dam at full storage, is that we should be in good shape at the start of summer."

Bill Sims
Manager, Water Resources
Engineering & Public Works
-30-

Contact:

Bill Sims
Manager, Water Resources
Engineering & Public Works
250-756-5302
Ritchie Fulla
General Foreman, Waterworks
Engineering & Public Works
250-758-5222

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