Greater Vernon is currently under Stage 3 Water Restrictions due to severe drought conditions, low snowpack, early snowmelt, and below-average precipitation. Greater Vernon Water customers are being asked to reduce water use by 50 percent to help protect water supplies through the summer and fall.
The City of Vernon does not manage or operate the water system. Water services and water restrictions are managed by Greater Vernon Water, a service of the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO). The City is supporting these conservation efforts by reducing water use across its operations and facilities.
Why water conservation matters
This year's water supply has been impacted by several factors:
- Below-average snowpack in the Duteau Creek watershed
- Earlier-than-normal snowmelt
- Lower-than-normal rainfall
- Warmer temperatures and increased water demand
- Declining reservoir levels supplying Greater Vernon Water customers
These conditions have placed significant pressure on our water system and require immediate action from the entire community.
Current water restrictions
Stage 3 Water Restrictions are in effect throughout the Greater Vernon Water service area.
Key restrictions include:
- No lawn watering
- Outdoor water use should be kept to an absolute minimum
- Watering should be limited to essential plants, food gardens, and trees
- Residents and businesses are expected to reduce overall water consumption by 50 percent
Failure to comply with water restrictions may result in warnings, fines, or water service interruption.
How the City of Vernon is conserving water
The City is taking immediate steps to reduce water consumption across municipal operations while maintaining essential public services. Measures include:
Parks and green spaces
- Irrigation is being reduced wherever possible.
- Reclaimed water is being used for park irrigation and tree watering where available. Marshall Fields and Department of National Defense (DND) grounds will remain open. These facilities use high-quality reclaimed water for irrigation and have no impact on the potable water system.
- Water use is being prioritized for heavily used parks, sports fields, and community gathering spaces.
City facilities and operations
- Reduced non-essential water use at City facilities and operations.
- Limited pressure washing activities to health, safety, and graffiti removal needs.
- Worked toward the same 50 percent water reduction target expected of the community.
- Paused the use of vacuum sweepers to reduce water consumption, while continuing to use mechanical sweepers that require only a small amount of water for dust control and to keep roads and public spaces clean and safe.
Water features
- Decorative water features, spray parks, and similar amenities have been shut down where possible to conserve water.
- Community pools remain operational to support public recreation and safety during hot weather.
How residents can help
Small changes can make a big difference when adopted across the community.
Outdoors
- Stop watering lawns.
- Use drip irrigation or hand watering when permitted.
- Add mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- Choose drought-tolerant landscaping and native plants.
- Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of washing them.
Indoors
- Fix leaking faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems promptly.
- Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
- Take shorter showers.
- Turn off taps while brushing teeth or shaving.
- Install water-efficient fixtures and appliances.
These actions help preserve water supplies while reducing household water consumption.
Stay informed
Water conditions can change throughout the summer. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about current restrictions, conservation tips, and water supply updates.