Updated - October 5, 2023
The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) advises customers supplied by the Grindrod Water Utility (GRW) that Outdoor Water Restrictions are RESCINDED. Supply and demand conditions on the water system have returned to normal and the Grindrod Water Treatment Plant is able to keep up with the current water usage. Although Outdoor Water Restrictions are being rescinded, the RDNO wants to remind customers that we live in a dry climate and water conservation should be practiced routinely to protect our streams as every drop counts.
Doing some yard clean up this weekend? Don’t forget your taps! Winterize taps to prevent leaks. Removing hoses and protecting exposed pipes from freezing temperatures will help to avoid cracks and leaks in the spring.
If you have any questions, please contact the RDNO Utilities Department at 250-550-3700.
Updated - July 28, 2023
The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), in conjunction with Interior Health, advises that the Precautionary Boil Water Notice issued on July 22, 2023 to customers supplied by the Grindrod Water Utility has been RESCINDED. All bacterial testing results and disinfection levels are within normal drinking water standards in the distribution system. A map of affected properties is attached.
Update on Outdoor Water Restrictions
Under the Water Sustainability Act, the Government of BC has declared a Level 4 Drought for the South Thompson watershed. The Grindrod Water Utility uses water in this watershed and outdoor watering impacts the river and stream levels.
Due to the drought declaration and the existing capacity limitations of the system, the utility remains on Stage 2 outdoor watering restrictions.
Stage 2 Water Restrictions are as follows:
- Customers are only allowed to water their lawns twice a week
- Please refer to the schedule below to find your designated watering days:
Odd House Numbers: Watering Days – Tuesdays and Saturdays
Even House Numbers: Watering Days - Sundays and Wednesdays - And, as always, watering between 10 am and 7 pm is not allowed at any time. Irrigating in the heat of the day is ineffective due to water evaporation and is an easily avoidable form of wasting water
- Filling swimming pools, hot tubs, garden ponds or decorative fountains is prohibited
- Minimize car washing to conserve water during the drought. When washing your car, use a sponge and bucket instead of running water
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Did you know that overwatering your lawn not only affects your community’s water supply, it can also harm the health of your grass. Most lawns need just 2.5cm (one inch) of water per week—about the depth of a tuna can. An easy way to see whether you are watering an appropriate amount is to place an empty tuna can with the lid off in an area where you are irrigating. When the can is full, usually after 15 to 20 minutes, you know that your grass has gotten an adequate amount of water. Watering for more than one hour per location is strictly forbidden. |
Under Stage 2 Water Restrictions, customers are allowed to water by hand at any time with a watering can or hose with a spring-loaded shut-off nozzle. Drip irrigation is also allowed any time as evaporation is minimal when the water is applied directly at the plant roots.
For indoor and outdoor water conservation tips, visit www.rdno.ca/waterwise.
For more information, visit www.rdno.ca/restrictions.
Where can I find future water updates?
Updates will be posted to www.rdno.ca/news (filter by Water Notices) and the RDNO’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RDNorthOkanagan. You can also subscribe to receive email updates at www.rdno.ca/subscribe.
If you have any questions, please contact the RDNO Utilities Department at 250-550-3700.
Original Notice - July 22, 2023
The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), in conjunction with Interior Health, advises customers supplied by the Grindrod Water Utility (GRW) that they are on a Precautionary Boil Water Notice (BWN) as of July 22, 2023. The map of the affected properties is below.
The BWN is in effect until sampling results confirm that the drinking water is safe. While water service to customers is being restored, you may experience some turbidity, which is normal. Please run the cold water in your bathtub and other taps and appliances until the water runs clear.
Why is this notice in place?
Due to a power outage that caused a loss of water, all customers who receive water from GRW are on a BWN.
A power outage or other event causing loss of water to GRW customers can lead to depressurization of the distribution pipes increasing the risk of back siphonage. The RDNO is required to issue a BWN and complete water sampling to ensure the continued safety of the water system. The level of service and treatment via clarification, filtration, and chlorination provided by the RDNO has been maintained. This precautionary measure is based on the American Water Works Association standards.
What should affected customers do?
All customers should boil their water for at least one minute when preparing any food, drinking, washing fruits & vegetables, making beverages or ice or when brushing teeth.
Where can I find updates?
Customers will be notified of updates at www.rdno.ca/news (filter by Water Notices) and the RDNO’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RDNorthOkanagan. You can also subscribe to receive email updates at www.rdno.ca/subscribe.
Click here for a larger version of the map.
