DROUGHT – City rescinds water restrictions as weather cools

The City of Kamloops is rescinding water use restrictions and enforcement that were imposed in August 2023.

In an announcement today (Oct. 5, 2023) the City said it made the decision in response to the provincial government’s move to Drought Level 4.

Although the North and South Thompson River basins continue to show historically low levels, cooler temperatures and forecasted precipitation have prompted a change in drought conditions, the statement said.

Effective immediately, all forms of water use are permitted, including irrigation with sprinklers and automatic systems, vehicle and boat washing, and pressure washing for any purpose.

“We want to thank Kamloops residents and businesses who stepped up in a big way to help conserve water during the unprecedented and adverse conditions we saw this year,” said Deven Matkowski, the City’s engineering manager.

“The collective effort of the community allowed over 500 million litres of water to remain in the river to support fish and the ecosystem.”

Based on weekly usage reports provided by the City’s engineering division, water use remained well below the city-wide 25 per cent reduction target.

While restrictions are being removed, the City would like to remind residents that water conservation throughout the year is of the utmost importance. Reducing the amount of water used helps protect our ecosystems; maintains levels required for fire suppression; and reduces the energy used to pump, treat, and distribute water throughout the city.

Stay informed and learn how to save water year-round by visiting Kamloops.ca/WaterConservation.