Water levels in the reservoirs in Summerland, British Columbia, have reached historic lows, causing concerns about the local salmon population, as reported by a district official. The community transitioned to Drought Level 4 in November, the second-highest level on the drought scale. Drone footage released by the Okanagan Basin Water Board of the Thirsk Dam and Reservoir last month revealed significantly reduced water levels, prompting Jeremy Storvold, the director of utilities for the District of Summerland, to note the unusual conditions.
Storvold remarked that the reservoir typically holds three times more water at that time of year compared to what was observed in the footage. He emphasized the need for an additional couple of meters of water to reach the standard level. This situation is not unique to one location, as Storvold mentioned that all dams and reservoirs in the district are currently experiencing low water levels, a situation not witnessed since the 1980s.
The decision by the District of Summerland council to escalate to drought Level 4 in November grants them the authority to decrease the flow in Trout Creek. Mayor Doug Holmes acknowledged the prevalence of drought conditions in the Okanagan region, stating that Summerland is not immune to the environmental factors affecting water availability.
Level 4 restrictions, including limitations on lawn watering and exterior washing, have been implemented to alert residents to the dry conditions. Storvold emphasized the importance of snow cover in the watershed for future water resources, indicating that substantial snowfall or rain events could alter the situation. By the end of June, the district anticipates having a clearer picture of the circumstances.
Elinor McGrath, a fisheries biologist at Okanagan Nation Alliance, highlighted the potential impact of the drought on salmon populations. Maintaining adequate water levels from September through to March or April is crucial for salmon spawning. Last year’s salmon run was affected by drought conditions, underscoring the need for improved conditions to support various fish species in Trout Creek.