Approval granted to use reclaimed water for agricultural irrigation

Jul 29, 2026 | 10:26 AM

Vernon will be going ahead with a plan to use reclaimed water to support agriculture.

The province has granted approval to connect the city’s reclaimed wastewater system to the Regional District of North Okanagan’s non-potable irrigation system in the Bella Vista and West Swan Lake service area, allowing the reclaimed water to be delivered to agricultural properties in the area.

This approval will be temporary and in place for this year while a long term solution to the water scarcity issue is investigated.

“Prompt support for our agricultural community during this period of drought has been a shared priority for all partners involved,” Mayor Victor Cumming stated.

“I want to thank the Regional District of North Okanagan, the Ministry of Environment and Parks, the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, and the Ministry of Agriculture for their collaborative approach and commitment to finding solutions. This initiative demonstrates the value of working together to respond to local time-sensitive challenges and provide critical support to agricultural users who are facing very difficult conditions.”

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Approval granted to use reclaimed water for agricultural irrigation

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The city stated the reclaimed water was “highly treated” and though was not suitable for drinking it has been used to water parks, sports fields and golf courses since the 1970s.

This new use will maximize the regional infrastructure while also creating greater flexibility within irrigation systems to respond to drought conditions and water management needs.

“The ongoing drought continues to place significant pressure on agricultural operations across Greater Vernon,” Director Bob Fleming, Chair of the RDNO Greater Vernon Advisory Committee, said.

“This temporary connection allows us to maximize existing infrastructure and provide an important source of irrigation water to agricultural customers during a critical time. We appreciate the collaboration of our municipal and provincial partners in helping deliver a practical solution that supports local food production and strengthens regional water resilience.”

The connections had been made and the system was being tested as of time of publication.

The city stated measures would be in place to keep the reclaimed water out of Goose Lake.

by Liam Verster

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