Updated - June 9, 2023
Urgent Request for Cooperation in Resolving Water Supply Issue
The Grindrod Water (GRW) Treatment Plant is operating at full capacity. It is designed to supply a consistent volume that is directed to the storage reservoir that balances out the customer demand requirements; however, we have recently identified a significant anomaly in our water usage pattern that is jeopardizing the stability and reliability of the entire water system.
The last several weeks, from Thursday morning to Friday morning, an excessive high and consistent flow of water is being drawn from the system causing the reservoir to drop to below safe levels as the GRW Treatment Plant cannot produce the amount of water being used. This sporadic demand is posing a significant risk to the water supply for all customers and is unsustainable. If this continues, customers may not have water when they turn on their taps.
In order to rectify this situation and ensure the continued availability of water for everyone, we are reaching out to the community to seek cooperation and assistance. We kindly request that customers share any information they may have regarding this issue. Once identified, we can work with the individual(s) responsible for this irregular water usage and collaborate on a water usage plan. Together, we can ensure the sustainable and uninterrupted supply of water to the community.
If anyone has observed or heard anything that could shed light on the source of this excessive water consumption, we would greatly appreciate them contacting GRW at 250-550-3700 or by email to utilities@rdno.ca.
Until GRW can rectify this issue, we are urging everyone to irrigate less and be wise with water use. If water flows remain high, a prohibition on all outdoor water use may be necessary. Outdoor water restrictions remain in effect and details can be found on our website at www.rdno.ca/restrictions.
Original Notice - June 2, 2023
The Grindrod Water (GRW) Treatment Plant is operating at full capacity and is struggling to keep up with the current water usage. GRW reminds customers that outdoor water restrictions are still in effect. A map of the affected area is attached.
To avoid the need for additional restrictions, the community must irrigate less, and be wise with water use. Over-drawing on the system can affect the safety of your drinking water. If water flows remain high, a prohibition on all outdoor water use may be necessary.
Current water restrictions allow GRW customers to water outdoors with sprinklers according to a schedule that is based on their street address.
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 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.
Click here for a larger version of the map
