Coldstream closes boat launches on Kalamalka Lake due to high water

Due to continuously rising water levels in Kalamalka Lake, the District of Coldstream has closed all its boat launches.

The District of Coldstream announced the closures yesterday, May 28. The District says in a media release creating waves near the shoreline needs to be avoided in an effort to prevent damage to property and shoreline erosion.

According to the River Forecast Centre, water levels at the Kalamalka Lake Pump House are at a five- to 10-year high. A high streamflow advisory, issued by the River Forecast Centre, remains in place for tributaries around Vernon, Lumby and Winfield.

Coldstream reopened the boat launches May 6, after closing the public lake access points due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The District is also advising residents that private docks are also at risk from high water levels and waves.

It's recommended dock owners make sure the anchored line is long enough so it will not snap when the water level rises and that pull-up docks raised as high as possible.

The District of Coldstream also says docks should be secured using sandbags or weighted barrels and all loose items should be removed.

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