Changes to Water Rules Supported

Written by Peter McIntyre Wednesday, 19 May 2010 17:32107.5 KISSFM

The regional district has approved changes to Greater Vernon's stage 3 water restrictions that make them more receptive to businesses and other users. One change will allow residents to fill, refill or top-up their swimming pools for 2 hours, one day a week, between the hours of 6 am and 5pm, until June 15th. Lee Kazmar from Pools, Ponds and Waterscapes says it's a good compromise. "I'm really happy with the outcome. I was hesitant at the beginning of the process and I've dedicated a ton of time and energy to this on behalf of the industry and my customers." Between June 15 and Aug 31, only topping of the pool will be permitted and water for new pools will have to be trucked in.

While stage 3 rules are still in effect, reservoir levels are rising, almost to the point of going to stage 2. Bonnie Leibel with Lavington Turf Farms says they will still have to shut down for two weeks this summer, but it's better than before. "When this first started there was no recourse, there was no discussion and it impacted our business for three weeks. We lost thousands of dollars but there is light at the end of the tunnel, we won't be forced out of business completely and it looks like we will be able to work with the stage 3 restrictions."

Another change will see the public get 36 hour notice before the restrictions change. The board also approved forming a 16 member Drought Response Team made up a cross section of the community, to help develop future watering regulations. GVAC chairman Wayne Lippert says it will be up to the utility to decide if there's separate restrictions for the Kal and Duteau sources.