Get the Top, Local stories delivered to your inbox! Click here to join the daily Vernon Matters newsletter.
near capacity

Shorelines in need of protection from high water levels

May 27, 2020 | 2:55 PM

Kalamalka Lake is close to reaching capacity, and people are asked to take measures to protect private property, parks and roads, and reduce the chances of soil erosion.

The District of Coldstream is asking people to leave debris along the shore of the lake until the risk of flooding has passed as the debris acts like a cushion to the wave action.

Boaters and personal watercraft users should slow down near the shoreline to avoid creating damaging waves, the district said.

“Transport Canada advises that anyone operating a power-driven boat in B.C. must adhere to a speed limit of 10 kilometres per hour within 30 metres of shore. Slower speeds are strongly encouraged while water levels remain high,” a news release from the district said.

Private docks are also at risk from high water levels and waves.

“Homeowners can secure anchored docks by ensuring the anchor lines are long enough that they won’t snap if water levels rise. Pull-up docks should be raised as high as possible. Secure docks using sandbags or weighted barrels on the edge of the dock and remove all loose items,” the release said.

Residents with sandbags protecting their property should keep them in place until the risk of flood has passed, the district said.

View Comments