Dawson Creek to enact water conservation measures amid low Kiskatinaw River flows

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — With the Kiskatinaw River drier than it’s ever been, Dawson Creek residents are being asked to start being careful about their water use soon.

Stage two water conservation measures are being implemented in the city beginning on Friday, July 25th at noon, according to a press release from city staff.

This comes as the Kiskatinaw River — Dawson Creek’s primary water supply — displays “the lowest flows in history” as a result of ongoing drought conditions in northeast B.C.

Additionally, water from Bearhole Lake released into the river in September to sustain winter flows hasn’t recharged, meaning there’s no additional water in that reserve for the city to release into the river.

Because of these ongoing drought conditions, the city submitted an application on July 15th to build a pipeline to secure a new water source.

With stage two conservation measures in effect, residents will only be able to water their lawns on specific days of the week and times based on their home address.

They’ll also need to use automatic shut-off devices on their hoses when washing boats or cars, and avoid hauling bulk water for ‘non-potable use’ in hydraulic fracturing operations.

“Hauling bulk water for non-potable use is the key area that will be affected during these conservation measures,” the release reads. “This restriction does not in any way impact drinking water for rural residents or impact commercial hauling for drinking water.”

Under the city’s Water Conservation Measures Bylaw no. 3844, anyone who contravenes the rules is liable to a fine of “not more than $10,000
and not less than $100 for each offence.”

The water conservation page on the City of Dawson Creek website has more information, including when residents can water their lawns.