The City of Merritt has entered LEVEL FIVE (5) Watering Restrictions. Much of the province is in severe drought conditions. The Coldwater River in particular is in a crisis situation. As a “losing reach” or “sinking river” where incoming water drains into aquifers that supply the city, fish habitats are stressed to the level where the river may lose its ability to support the lives of fish and all the other animals that depend on that ecosystem. Every resident is asked to conserve water wherever possible to protect our drinking water and fish habitats.
Please note: Water restrictions are for fire protection, as the fire ratings across the BC Interior are currently listed as extreme.
For more information on the restrictions, please see the City of Merritt website at https://www.merritt.ca/watering
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Wildfire Links:
- To report a wildfire: Please call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell
- Emergency Info BC: www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca
- Fire information line: 1-888-336-7378
- Province of BC Wildfire information: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status
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Summary of Level 5 Water Restrictions:
The City of Merritt encourages every citizen to practice more extensive water conservation methods, and consider Level 5 watering restrictions as a minimum.
- Level 5 watering restrictions define no lawn watering and no garden sprinklers. Flowers, trees, and shrubs can no longer be watered using potable City water. Residents may collect grey water, such as when washing dishes, to use for non-food-producing outdoor plants.
- Only vegetable gardens and fruit trees can be hand watered with a hose with an automatic shut-off valve or by drip irrigation system.
- Outdoor washing is not permitted unless ordered by a regulatory authority. Washing vehicle windows is permitted for safety reasons. Commercial car washes remain open.
- Pools and hot tubs can not be topped up or filled.
- Bulk water usage is not permitted, with the exception of drinking water. Key FOBs will be turned off.
Lawn Watering Days: NOT PERMITTED
Lawn Watering Hours: NOT PERMITTED