Restrict water use in Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley: province

With weather conditions expected to remain warm and dry for the foreseeable future,water users in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valleyare being urgedto reduce water consumption.

The B.C. government is calling for a voluntary water reduction by 20 per cent or more from all users in those areas as well asthe Sea to Sky and Sunshine Coast areas.

Staff with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations anticipate that these regions could experience significant water supply shortages in 2015.

Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and Haida Gwaiiare also on Level 3 drought conditions, whichis just one level shy of the worst drought conditions on the province's gauge system.

Water conservation tips

Although municipalities that have reservoirsare less vulnerable to water supply shortages than those areasserved by streams, lakes and wells, the ministry is encouragingall water users to conserve. Here's their advice for residents:

• Limit outdoor watering
• Don't water during the heat of the day or when it's windy
• Consider planting drought-tolerant vegetation
• Take shorter showers
• Don't leave the tap running
• Install water-efficient showerheads and toilets.