We’ve been hearing about low snowpack all spring, and while there isn’t necessarily any cause for concern, there is always cause to conserve. As of Wednesday, May 1, Stage 2 watering restrictions are in effect in the City of Nanaimo and almost everywhere else in the Regional District of Nanaimo.
Moving to Stage 2 is something that happens automatically on May 1 and independently of any measurements and projections. It means households will only be allowed to use sprinklers every other day – on even-numbered days for those with even-numbered addresses, and on odd-numbered days for those at odd-numbered addresses. Sprinkling can be done for up to two hours between 7-10 a.m. or 7-10 p.m., and watering vegetable gardens and drip irrigation are exempt from restrictions. Pressure washing is allowed at any time, though washing vehicles and filling pools is only allowed every other day.
“Reported snow levels at higher elevations were below average for most of the winter season, [though] there was an uptick in the snowpack in February due to higher precipitation levels…” noted a press release from the RDN. “Forecasts show the potential for slightly lower than average rainfall and warmer than average temperatures this spring, with the likelihood of drought conditions beginning early in the summer season.”
The region added that with the prospect of a dry summer ahead, proactive conservation at this time of year ensures that water demand can be met for household use, fire protection and environmental flows.
Stage 1 and Stage 2 are the only automatic watering restrictions – anything beyond this will mean that there are additional reasons to limit water use. But being water smart right now will add up to more than a drop in the bucket as we guard against the hot summer ahead.
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