Dry weather prompts Stage 3 restrictions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo calls for water conservation as reservoir levels fall ahead of summer. (Jessica Damiano via AP)

Nanaimo residents are being asked to scale back outdoor water use as the city prepares to introduce Stage 3 watering restrictions next week amid dry conditions.

The voluntary measures take effect June 8. Municipal staff say conservation efforts made now could help preserve water reserves through the hottest months of the year and reduce the likelihood of tougher restrictions later this summer.

The city’s drinking water system has been under growing pressure after weeks of dry weather left reservoir levels trending downward. At the same time, water consumption has climbed beyond what is typically seen at this point in the season.

“Every effort to reduce unnecessary water use makes a meaningful difference,” said Mike Squire, manager of water resources for the City of Nanaimo in a statement.

The city says reducing outdoor water use is one of the most effective ways residents can help protect local supplies while ensuring water remains available for households, emergency services and environmental needs.

Under Stage 3 restrictions, sprinkler watering of lawns is limited to one designated day each week. Properties with odd-numbered addresses may water on Mondays, while even-numbered addresses are assigned Thursdays. Watering is restricted to the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a maximum duration of two hours.

Watering of vegetable gardens and fruit trees remains permitted, while hand-watering and low-volume drip irrigation systems can continue to be used under current Stage 3 rules.

Several sectors are exempt from the restrictions, including businesses that depend on water to provide services such as commercial vehicle washing, plant nurseries and professional cleaning operations.

Should reservoir levels continue to decline or demand remain elevated, Nanaimo could advance to Stage 4 restrictions, which would prohibit most non-essential outdoor water use.