No additional sprinkling restrictions are planned for Salmon Arm in the wake of the recent heat wave that washed over the Shuswap.
Rob Niewenhuizen, the city’s director of engineering and public works, informed council’s planning meeting on July 20 that no change is required at this time.
“It’s not something we feel we need to put additional water restrictions on. I think a lot of property owners are taking the initiative, we’re seeing browner lawns….”
He said current Shuswap Lake levels appear to be a month ahead of the six-year average.
“The 2015 water treatment plant production levels are slightly advanced as well, yet lower than the 2014 production levels,” he said.
Coun. Kevin Flynn asked if the lower lake levels could mean extending the water restrictions further into the fall.
Niewenhuizen said the city could revisit the levels in mid-September when restrictions are set to be lifted.
Coun. Ken Jamieson asked about other water sources.
“Metford Dam produces about 13 per cent of water; it’s gravity fed so it’s cheaper to operate. We typically have the ability to shut it off when turbidity gets higher. Right now it seems to be running fine. We had it off about two weeks ago but it’s up and running again.”
Coun. Chad Eliason noted the lake was a good six or seven feet higher in 2012.
“Everything seems to be about a month ahead.”
He asked if the water intake is deep enough that there’s no reason for concern.
Niewenhuizen said yes, the water intake in the lake off Canoe is very deep. He said water restrictions are also for downstream users.
Mayor Nancy Cooper asked Niewenhuizen to keep council updated.