The South Coast of B.C. and Lower Fraser region are now officially in a stage 4 drought category.
Level 4 is the highest drought rating, which means low surface and ground water levels pose the threat of water shortages that could have impacts on agriculture, wildlife and fish.
Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands have been at stage 4 since the beginning of July.
The level 4 rating brings with it expectations of increased restrictions by local water managers, which could include the temporary suspension of water licences.
Areas without large reservoirs are most vulnerable to water shortages. Metro Vancouver’s water reservoirs are currently at 73% capacity. Currently stage 2 water restrictions in place.
Although rivers on Vancouver Island, in the South Okanagan and the Cariboo (Horsefly River) have had fishing closures, no rivers in the south coast or Lower Fraser have been closed to fishing to date.
