Whistler is in Water Conservation Stage 2
Recommendations to change the stage depend on water supply, reservoir levels, fire danger rating and the weather forecast.
The water conservation stage is evaluated each week during summer, but updates aren’t made during fall and winter.
Weekly Risk to Supply Analysis Table: updated weekly in summer
Last update May 1, 2024
| Factor | Possible Status | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 21 Mile Creek Supply | Offline or online | Intermittently online with spring snowmelt and rain affecting turbidity |
| Reservoir Levels | Above or below fire storage levels | Above fire storage levels |
| Weather forecast | Likelihood of precipitation / forecast temperatures | See Environment Canada weather forecast |
| BC Drought Level Rating for the area (Whistler is in the Easter Pacific Range Basin) | Level 0: No adverse impacts Level 1: Adverse impacts rare Level 2: Adverse impacts unlikely Level 3: Adverse impacts possible Level 4: Adverse impacts likely Level 5: Adverse impacts almost certain | Eastern Pacific Range regional rating: British Columbia Drought Information Portal Drought updates have concluded for the 2023 season and will resume in spring 2024. |
| Whistler Fire Rescue Service: Fire Danger Rating | Low, Moderate, High or Extreme | Whistler’s Fire Danger rating is: Low |
| BC Wildfire Service Coastal Fire Centre, Danger Class: Whistler area is listed as: Cheakamus | Level 1: Very low danger Level 2: Low danger Level 3: Moderate danger Level 4: High danger Level 5: Extreme danger | BC Wildfire Service’s Coastal Fire Centre: 1 = Very Low Danger |
Why Does Water Conservation Matter?
Reducing water consumption decreases the amount of water that requires treatment, which reduces energy use and infrastructure costs. Water use guidelines ensure a reliable supply of potable water to meet Whistler’s daily domestic and commercial needs, protect natural aquatic habitats, and makes sure the community has adequate water for fire protection emergencies.
Potable water use increases in the summer months by more than 50 percent. The community water use target of 425 litres per person per day identified in the RMOW Comprehensive Water Conservation and Supply Plan means that all residents and businesses in Whistler have a shared responsibility to save water for when we need it most.
Water use conservation regulations apply only to the use of potable drinking water. Using rain water, gray water, or any form of recycled water is not restricted. Staff monitor Whistler’s water supply and activate water use restrictions by evaluating the water supply (such as reservoir levels) and forecasts. Residents and visitors are encouraged to conserve water as much as possible to ensure that Whistler is adequately prepared in the event of fire emergencies.
The graphic above provides a summary of the key water usage regulations. It does not contain all information regarding the bylaw. When referencing this bylaw and determining which regulations affect you, refer to the Outdoor Potable Water Usage Bylaw and not the graphic.
Find out how the RMOW saves water.
FAQs
Contact
Infrastructure Services
604-935-8190
engineers@whistler.ca
