Dawson Creek water stores increase, but city applies to extend emergency state amid freezing concerns

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Dawson Creek has applied to extend its state of local emergency (SOLE) due to drought conditions continuing to “place pressure” on the city’s water supply.

Earlier this month, the City of Dawson Creek declared SOLE after multiple consecutive years of drought have left the Kiskatinaw River – Dawson Creek’s sole water source since 1942 – at record-low levels.

With the city then estimating reservoir stores would last roughly 150 days, declaring SOLE enabled it to access provincial support and take emergency measures.

Now, a notice issued by the city on Tuesday, October 28th says Dawson Creek has applied to extend SOLE because, with water levels so low, it is concerned about the increased risk of the river freezing solid.

When this happened in early 2024, water could not be pumped into reservoirs.

However, the city says stores have marginally increased from 150 to 180 days through “careful management and the additional precipitation in recent weeks.”

“This improvement reflects the diligent efforts of city staff, who have been closely monitoring water levels, optimizing pumping operations and conserving every available drop,” reads the statement.

“These actions have strengthened our community’s water security as we prepare for the colder months ahead.”

However, it “remains committed to protecting household, commercial and essential-service water needs,” and that requires “coordination and support to safeguard our community now and into the coming months,” it added.

The city remains at stage three water conservation measures, first established in early September.

The statement concludes that the restrictions are “necessary to ensure that our available water supply can continue to meet critical community demands, including drinking water, sanitation and fire protection.”

Hauling potable water for non-potable uses is “strictly prohibited,” while residents, businesses and contractors are reminded to limit water consumption to essential needs only.

This all comes as Dawson Creek is pursuing a new water supply system after years of challenges with the Kiskatinaw River.

Residents of Dawson Creek can subscribe to receive emergency updates at the city’s website.