There is growing concern about Greater Vernon’s water supply.
Snowpack readings were taken by Greater Vernon Water March 1 at three monitoring stations near the Duteau Creek reservoirs.
“These readings show the snow water equivalent, or water content of the snow, at 30 per cent to 114 per cent of average for this time of year,” said Jennifer Miles, water sustainability co-ordinator.
“These are unusual readings showing high variability within the watershed. These results are comparable to sites in neighbouring watersheds, Oyama Lake and Postill, which show a range of 53 per cent to 86 per cent of average snow water content.”
According to the B.C. River Forecast Centre, March high elevation snowpack measurements were at 85 per cent of normal for the Okanagan basin, which includes the Kalamalka Lake water source.
The South Thompson basin, which includes the Duteau Creek water reservoirs, is at 91 per cent of normal.
The centre also forecasts below normal stream run-off in the Okanagan and Kalamalka-Wood basins.
The combined results from GVW and the B.C. River Forecast Centre indicate a slightly below average snow pack.
“GVW water storage levels in the Duteau Creek Reservoirs are currently above average,” said Miles.
“The current levels are similar to levels normally seen in mid-April.”
Low flows are expected to occur earlier than normal this year and low flows may occur in the summer unless significant rainfall occurs.
“The centre also reports that seasonal forecasts from Environment Canada indicate a high likelihood of above normal temperatures during the period of March to May,” said Miles.
“This may increase water demand so GVW reminds customers to use water wisely. Tips on how to irrigate efficiently and maintain a waterwise yard are available at www.rdno.ca/waterwise.”
Miles added that GVW will continue to monitor climate trends and water supplies.
