Outdoor water restrictions are in effect for Grindrod Water customers starting today, May 17, 2022, due to the impacts of spring run-off on the Grindrod Water (GRW) Treatment Plant. Melting snow has resulted in an increased presence of particles like clay and silt (turbidity) in the water that enters the Treatment Plant.
When turbidity rises, operators make raw water pass through treatment processes at a slower rate so the plant can still effectively filter out the particles and disinfect your drinking water. Since less water is able to move through the plant, restrictions on non-essential water uses are in place to protect the supply of water for essential uses.
These water restrictions allow GRW customers to water outdoors with sprinklers according to a schedule that is based on their street address.
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Even House Address | No Sprinklers | Odd House Address | Even House Address | Odd House Address | Even House Address | Odd House Address |
To avoid the need for added restrictions, the community must commit to following the schedule and being wise with their water use. If you can irrigate less, please do. Over-drawing on the system can affect the safety of your drinking water. If water flows remain high, we may have to prohibit all outdoor water use.
Even under water restrictions, residents may water any time by hand 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 more information, visit https://www.rdno.ca/restrictions.
Tips on Reducing Water Use
Most lawns and gardens only need water 1-2 times a week to remain healthy. Lawns naturally brown and go dormant with minimal water when it is hot – this is okay and the lawn will green up when the weather cools.
Adapting your yard to our normally dry climate is another way to help our community water system. Visit www.rdno.ca/waterwise for yard care tips and a list of easy-to-grow shrubs, trees, and ground covers.
Where can I find future water notices?
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.