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By Liam Verster

Critical Water Main Repairs

Water system work to result in source change for several Vernon neighbourhoods

Sep 24, 2025 | 4:24 PM

Properties in areas across Vernon will see a temporary water source change.

The Regional District of North Okanagan said it would switch the drinking water source for Greater Vernon Water serviced properties in the BX, East Hill, Stepping Stones, Old Kamloops Rd., Middleton Mountain, and parts of Coldstream and Lavington areas from the Duteau Creek to the Kalamalka Lake water source temporarily.

Properties switching from the Duteau Creek to the Kalamalka Lake water source starting Oct. 6 (image courtesy of the RDNO)

The change in service providers is required to accommodate a critical water main valve replacement at the intersection of Reid Road and Learmouth Road. This work will also require a partial shutdown of the Duteau Creek Water Treatment Plant’s transmission main.

The source change was expected to take effect Monday, October 6, and last approximately six weeks.

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Sampling will be done throughout the project, and the water main will be refilled and the water tested once the work is completed. When the work is completed and testing shows the water is safe to consume, the affected properties will be switched back to the Duteau Creek water source.

The RDNO said there should be no interruption to people’s drinking water service during the switch.

However, people may notice a slight change in the water’s taste or odour.

Properties that remain on the Duteau Water system may experience a temporary pressure increase while the work is done, and the RDNO reminded residents that they are required to have a pressure-reducing valve on their system.

People were encouraged to be mindful of their water usage during the switch.