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Water conservation

Last updated on July 30, 2024

Freshwater in B.C. comes from snowmelt, rainfall, or a mix of both. Precipitation affects the time of year B.C. experiences high and low water flows, and the availability of water to be used or stored. Water supply is also affected by climate change, population growth, and expansion of industry and agriculture. 

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Water conservation

Water conservation is critical in summer months. Snowmelt and rainfall add to the water supply, but precipitation is limited in the summer. This can cause the water supply to decrease while the demand for water increases throughout the summer. Year-round water conservation also has benefits, including decreased water treatment, sewage and infrastructure costs.

The Province is working to save water for essential uses by:

  • Reducing water use in provincial government properties
  • Helping large industry increase water conservation
  • Encouraging voluntary conservation
  • Ensuring water licensees remain in compliance of the Water Sustainability Act

Videos

Learn more about water conservation by watching the BC Adapts: Water Conservation Videos.

Water conservation 1: Why?


Water conservation 2: Water conservation outdoors


Water conservation 3: Rainwater harvesting


Water conservation 4: Water treatment and reuse

Community Water Use Schedule Case Study: Xwulqw’selu (Koksilah) Watershed

Coordinated voluntary water use reductions can help restore stream flows during drought.     

In 2023, water licence holders in the Xwulqw’selu (Koksilah) watershed voluntarily reduced water use. The Province requested voluntary reductions in the watershed on June 12, 2023. License holders stopped irrigating on different days to lessen the demand on the water supply.

These water conservation efforts delayed further regulatory action until later in the season. The Province delayed issuing a fish population protection order until August 24, 2023.

Cowichan Tribes First Nation and the Province signed the Xwulqw'selu Watershed Planning Agreement on May 12, 2023. The agreement works to build a long-term plan for the Xwulqw’selu watershed. The Province works in full partnership with the Cowichan Tribes First Nation who have been stewards of the land since time immemorial. Visit Koksilah Water to learn more.