Armstrong lifts stage two watering restrictions

ARMSTRONG – While the province remains under a level four drought rating, the City of Armstrong has decided to relax watering restrictions.

The city implemented stage two restrictions earlier this month in response to the level four drought declaration, but believes they are no longer necessary.

After monitoring the impact of stage two restrictions, the city discovered a 40 per cent reduction in water usage, well over the target of 30 per cent, the city stated in a media release.

“We believe that a target conservation of 30 per cent going forward is achievable on a voluntary basis by ceasing to use water where it is not necessary,” Mayor Chris Pieper said in the release. “Armstrong residents have shown they are great supporters of water conservation.”

The use of sprinklers and irrigation systems, which was prohibited under stage two restrictions, will now be allowed for watering gardens, trees, shrubs and newly seeded lawn.

To maintain reduced usage levels, the city is requesting all water users to continue conservation efforts and voluntarily cease the watering of lawns, washing of driveways, sidewalks, parking lots and exterior building surfaces until further notice.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infonews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.