Water Conservation FAQ

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Water Conservation FAQ

• Where does our water come from?

  The Ring Creek Aquifer is the District’s sole source for drinking water. The District has backup surface water sources that would only be used in an emergency. Seven wells draw water from the Ring Creek Aquifer, located at the Powerhouse Springs well field. 

• We live in a rain forest. Why do we have watering restrictions?

  Water restrictions are in place due to the pumping and storage capacity of the District’s water supply and distribution system in order to meet peak summertime demands and, more critically, to ensure adequate supply in the event of a fire or other emergency during peak summertime demands. Water conservation measures are also in place to delay (or even avoid) costly water system upgrades to increase the pumping and storage capacity for peak summertime demand. 

• Why do water restrictions remain consistent when we’ve had such a high amount of snowfall?

  A 2014 Hydrogeological Assessment revealed that only 31% of the Ring Creek Aquifer recharge comes from rainfall and snowmelt, which can take up to several years to enter the system.

• If we’re on watering restrictions, why is the District still watering the playing fields at Brennan Park?

  The District uses non-potable water from wells near Hendrickson Fields and at the Brennan Park Recreation Centre to water the playing fields. The District also uses non-potable water for watering the hanging baskets around town. 

• What is the District doing to conserve water?

  In addition to the District’s Outdoor Water Use Bylaw to manage increased summer usage, our water conservation and water-wise efforts include:

  • Community education and outreach:
    • Squamish Farmers’ Market,
    • Water Conservation Educator neighbourhood outreach
    • Water conservation tips and information online and via the District’s weekly eNews and social media networks
  • Using non-potable water to water the fields at Brennan Park and to water flower baskets around town;
  • Filling our reservoirs outside of times when there is peak demand.

• How are the Stages of watering restriction decided?

  The District monitors water consumption and weather data (average and maximum daily temperatures, precipitation and snowfall amounts) on a daily basis. Data collected over the past four years has revealed the following trends year after year:

  • Daily water consumption increases by an average of 75% during the peak summertime months, compared to baseline daily water consumption in the winter and shoulder seasons.
  • Peak water consumption occurs during prolonged periods of hot and dry weather, when the risk of fire is high.
  • As our population continues to increase, so does our daily water consumption.

  

  

  Stage 1: Stage 1 water conservation begins on May 1 each year. Water restrictions are lifted on October 31 each year unless conditions warrant keeping the restrictions in place.

  Stage 2: In anticipation of the historical water use rise during the hot, dry summer months of July and August, the District typically moves to Stage 2 water restrictions before the Canada Day holiday each year and continues through the Labour Day holiday. The move to Stage 2 may occur sooner based on weather and consumption.

  Stage 3: Stage 3 water restrictions come into effect on an as-needed basis, based on daily water consumption trends, weather, and forest fire hazard level.

  Stage 4: Stage 4 water restrictions come into effect on an as-needed basis and are reserved for emergency situations.

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• How much water does a lawn really need?

  On average, most lawns need 2.5 cm of water (or 1 hour) per week. To determine how much water is enough, place an upside-down Frisbee or empty tuna can onto your lawn while watering. Stop watering when the Frisbee is full, or when there is 2.5 cm of water in the tuna can. 

• Can I use rain water to water my garden during Stage 2 or Stage 3?

  Yes. Summertime outdoor water use restrictions apply only to the use of drinking water for watering lawns, trees and shrubs, and washing cars, driveways and siding. Using rain water, gray water, or any forms of recycled water is not restricted.

• Is non-potable water available to the public?

  Bulk non-potable water is available for purchase to developers, contractors and others for their projects and events where non-potable water is suitable.