Sandbag removal efforts are wrapping up in the Central Okanagan

CENTRAL OKANAGAN – The sandbag recovery operations in the Central Okanagan will be completed by the end of August.

The majority of flood response sandbags have been removed from public and private property in the Central Okanagan, according to a Central Okanagan Emergency Operations press release. The last of the sandbags reported on the online sandbag app are being picked up by crews.

West Kelowna sandbag removal has already been completed and the remaining recovery operations will be completed by Aug. 25, officials say.

Sandbag drop off locations are closed so residents are responsible for any sandbag removal on their properties. Separated sand and sandbags can be returned to the Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna. Sand will be accepted free of charge and the empty sandbags charged regular tipping fees.

Sandbags should not be emptied into creeks, lakes, wetland, beaches or other watercourses as outlined in the Water Sustainability Act, officials say. Emptying sandbags into these areas can destroy fish habitat and affect drinking water supply, infrastructure, flood control, navigation and recreational activities.

If sandbags on private property have been missed by pickup crews you can call the flood recovery line at 250-470-0674. 

Central Okanagan Emergency Operations says debris removal is ongoing with four barge crews working on Okanagan Lake. Recovery along the Kelowna shoreline from the Mission area towards the W. R. Bennett Bridge continues as well. There are additional crews working along north Westside Road, Peachland and West Kelowna.

Crew will also continue with the collection of 'unnatural' debris from the shores of Okanagan Lake including unclaimed broken docks, unregistered boats, garbage and barrels. Large trees and stumps are also being pulled from the water.

Property owners are responsible for damaged docks and pilings still in place, Central Okanagan Emergency Operations officials say. Any debris residents do not want removed should be mark it with “Do Not Remove,” things like sections of dock that can be repaired. If possible, use fluorescent orange flagging tape or paint.

For more information sign up for e-updates or call the flood recovery phone line at 250-470-0674. The information line will be open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Monday to Friday until Aug. 25.

For municipal information about boat launches, parks and beaches and water quality advisories, visit their websites:

City of Kelowna

City of West Kelowna

District of Lake Country

District of Peachland

Regional District of Central Okanagan

Westbank First Nation

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