The Province of British Columbia is urging residents, businesses and large water users to reduce water consumption as forecasts indicate much of the province will experience elevated drought conditions this summer.
The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship says recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have improved stream flows in some regions, but warmer and drier weather is expected to continue, increasing the risk of water scarcity across much of B.C.
Areas under close monitoring include parts of the southern coast, southern Interior, Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, where some watersheds continue to experience low stream flows. Officials say aquatic ecosystems, fish populations and wildlife remain vulnerable if dry conditions persist.
The province is encouraging voluntary water conservation to help protect watersheds and reduce pressure on local water supplies. If necessary, temporary water protection orders could be implemented as a last resort to maintain stream flows and safeguard fish habitat.
The government says it is continuing to invest in long-term water security through several initiatives, including the $100-million Watershed Security Fund, $100 million invested since 2023 through the Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program, and $50 million for water meters in rural and First Nations communities. It has also updated its drought response planning and is piloting a new water-scarcity level system in several regions.
Officials say early conservation efforts can help communities better manage drought conditions and protect water resources throughout the summer.
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