August 16, 2023 – The Province of BC announced Level 5 drought conditions on August 3rd, based on historically low river levels in the North and South Thompson River Basins. Drought Level 5 is the most severe level of drought and indicates that adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are almost certain.
As a way to help conserve water supply and protect the environment Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc will be implementing enhanced water use restrictions aimed at reducing community-wide water use by 25%, effective August 16, 2023.
Water Restrictions in effect include:
- A ban on outdoor watering and irrigating, with the exception of hand-held, spring-loaded nozzles.
- Irrigating by use of sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems is not permitted.
- Washing of vehicles and boats will only be permitted at commercial wash locations unless washing for safety purposes.
- Pressure washing for aesthetic purposes will not be permitted.
Do it for the Fish
The Secwepemc Fisheries Commission is urging water conservation measures to mitigate for mortality caused by extreme drought conditions that threaten salmon and other fish populations due to the reduced streamflow and increased temperature within rivers and streams.
Kukwstsetsemc,
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc
TteS Drought Response Team
TteS Bylaws and water restriction are implemented by Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, not the provincial government.
All British Columbians are responsible for the sustainability of water and aquatic ecosystems. All water users in drought-affected areas are asked to cooperate and contribute to the goal of conservation.