British Columbia water restrictions shift supply for Vernon and impose limits in Kelowna

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) is temporarily switching the water source for Greater Vernon Water customers near Lavington to the Antwerp Deep Well. The change, announced in June, aims to prioritize surface water for agricultural use amid Stage 3 drought restrictions and is expected to cause minor changes in taste, smell or appearance due to higher manganese levels. The RDNO expanded the affected area to include additional addresses on Brewer Road, Highway 6, Aberdeen Road North and sites near Kalamalka Lake Road, and is monitoring water quality throughout the switch.

Separately, the Black Mountain Irrigation District (BMID) imposed Stage 1 water restrictions for its Mission Creek service area, targeting a 10 % reduction in overall use to maintain supply through the fall. The district also reminded users in the Scotty Creek area that Stage 2 restrictions, requiring a 20 % cut, remain in effect. The restrictions limit lawn and garden watering to alternating days, while allowing hand‑watering and drip irrigation.

Both measures reflect coordinated efforts by local authorities in British Columbia to manage limited water resources during an ongoing drought.