Auren Ruvinsky
writer@pqbnews.com
Due to the dry summer conditions, Ucluelet moved to stage one water restrictions Aug. 2 until further notice.
“In terms of normal for this time of year, based off three to five years data - except for 2014 - we seem to be on par with our average,” said public works manager Warren Cannon.
Unlike Tofino which has gone to an automatic stage one for water conservation, the District of Ucluelet bases the decision on their water consumption and availability.
For Ucluelet, stage one means residents can water lawns and gardens for a total of two hours a day between 6-10 a.m. or 6-10 p.m. on alternate days. Even numbered addresses can water on even numbered days, odd numbered addresses can water on odd numbered days.
A news release says “By adhering to these water restrictions, you will assist in stabilizing our supply of potable water for drinking, household use and fire protection.”
Cannon said the more restrictive stage two is on their radar, depending on whether, explaining, “If we get a significant amount of rain it’ll have an impact.”
Stage two would decrease watering times to one hour twice a week.
Ucluelet is experiencing low recharge rates from its two water sources, an artesian well at “Mercantile Creek and an aquifer at Lost Shoe Creek at the junction,” Cannon said, adding that they can choose the source or blend them as needed.
For more information in Ucluelet call 250-726-7744.
Tofino meanwhile adopted an automatic stage one system this summer which is now in place every summer from May 1 to Oct. 1.
Tofino residents can currently water lawns and gardens between 6-9 a.m. and 7-10 p.m. Odd numbered addresses can water on Mondays and Thursdays, even numbered on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The more restrictive stages remain at the discretion of the chief administrative officer and manager of public works depending on consumption and the water supply. For Tofino information call 250-725-3229.