Farmers in Vernon are adapting to water constraints in the area as a response to critically low reservoir and lake levels. The Regional District of the North Okanagan and the Greater Vernon Water Utility have enforced Stage 3 restrictions, including a mandatory 70% reduction in water usage for all farmers.
Adrian Arts, a farmer and the executive director of the B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, expressed concerns that such a significant reduction in water supply could have detrimental effects on orchards, potentially causing long-term damage or tree death.
The B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association is urging government support to help sustain agriculture in the region amidst ongoing challenges faced by farmers. This year marks the sixth consecutive year of difficulties, with past incidents including a heat dome and a deep freeze.
Following the implementation of restrictions in June, officials met with major water users, including farmers, to discuss options for water sharing and reallocation. David Sewell from the Regional District of North Okanagan mentioned a farmer already negotiating with a neighbor for water sharing.
Amanda Summerfelt, the water efficiency co-ordinator with Greater Vernon Water, noted the community’s overall cooperation with the restrictions, which include bans on non-essential water use like lawn watering and pool filling. Some exceptions, such as maintaining sports fields, have been allowed under agreements.
Certain entities in the area, like golf courses and specific fields, utilize reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment plant, which remains unrestricted. The water utility has observed a significant 48% reduction in water consumption since the restrictions took effect. Additionally, some residents have been temporarily shifted to an alternative water source to prioritize surface water for agricultural purposes.