Extreme drought conditions and the likelihood of another challenging fire season have prompted a community in one of the driest parts of the province to start managing its water supply early — and turning off the taps for people who don’t follow the rules.

The City of Merritt has announced water restrictions — that the mayor says wouldn’t usually be considered until mid-July — in an effort to conserve water ahead of wildfire season and get people in the habit of using less.

Level 3 watering restrictions are in effect, limiting lawn and garden watering to two times per week, on designated days depending on numbered addresses. Hand watering and washing is allowed any time.

Mayor Michael Goetz said he’s anxious about the months ahead, knowing the snowpack is the lowest ever recorded at this time of year.

  • Ulrich_the_Old
    81·
    7 months ago

    Step one fines. Fines should be based on income. So rather than a $25 fine a $25% of your income fine. This would get people’s attention. Step two a threat of shut off and double the fine. Step three shut off water and increase the fine. This is not an unsolvable problem it just needs the will to proceed.

    • Someone
      5·
      7 months ago

      I get your point but that’s an insane amount. That would be about $9000 for someone making minimum wage.

    • CanadianCorhen
      3·
      7 months ago

      i agree fines should scale, however i would do it to property value, instead of income.

    • Pyr_Pressure
      1·
      7 months ago

      It’s unfortunate that we can’t limit water by litres, so for a family of 4 put a limit of say 100L or something. People do still need to drink and cook unfortunately.