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Drought conditions put RDN areas under Stage 4 watering restrictions

Low flow levels in river, stream systems
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The Regional District of Nanaimo has banned all watering activities under Stage 4 watering restrictions. (Submitted photo)

The Regional District of Nanaimo has imposed Stage 4 watering restrictions effective immediately.

The province elevated east Vancouver Island and other areas in the province on Sept. 30, to provincial Drought Level 4.

The drought conditions have resulted in low flow levels in river and stream systems throughout the RDN and have delayed the recharge of the aquifers that the RDN’s water systems rely on, according to a press release.

Stage 4 watering restrictions remain in effect until further notice as warm, dry weather forecasts are expected for at least a few more weeks and aquifers in the region may take extra time to recharge when the rain eventually arrives.

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Stage 4 watering restrictions include a ban on all lawn watering activities and residents are not permitted to wash vehicles, boats or siding, nor fill fountains, pools or hot tubs.

This comprehensive ban on outdoor water use is required to ensure that the community’s essential water needs are met for drinking water, hygiene and fire protection, read the release. Hand watering, where allowed, must be done using a hand-held container or a hose equipped with a shutoff device. Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are exempt from all watering restrictions, even Stage 4.

Private wells are not subject to these watering restrictions, but conservation is encouraged as water is a shared resource.

A map of RDN water service areas can be viewed at rdn.bc.ca/watering-restriction-map. For tips on water conservation, visit https://www.rdn.bc.ca/team-watersmart.

— NEWS Staff

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