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Residents being asked to conserve as drought season amid unprecedented drought conditions, driven by a historically low snowpack across the Okanagan. (Image Credit: City of Kelowna)
By Vernon Matters Staff
Water Preservation

Kelowna under drought pressure as peak watering season begins

Jun 9, 2026 | 10:32 AM

Kelowna is entering peak watering season under what city officials are calling unprecedented drought conditions, driven by an historically low snowpack across the Okanagan.

The City of Kelowna said reduced winter snowfall has significantly limited water reserves, and residents are being asked to immediately reduce outdoor water use as demand climbs during the summer months.

Watering restrictions are currently in effect across multiple service areas, including Stage 1 limits for customers served by the City Water Utility and the Glenmore-Ellison Improvement District, as well as Stage 2 restrictions for customers supplied through the McCulloch Lake Reservoir and parts of the District of Lake Country system.

City utility officials said agricultural users supplied by McCulloch Lake are now under tighter rules after water levels dropped to about 70 per cent of full capacity.

“Users are now required to use 20 per cent less water for agricultural purposes,” said utility services manager Rod MacLean. “Without significant reduction in water use, the reservoir will empty before season end and cause water supply issues into the future.”

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Residents are being asked to follow designated watering days and to avoid peak evaporation hours by watering either early in the morning or late in the evening.

Additional recommendations include using hand watering with spring-loaded nozzles and collecting rainwater where possible for gardens and outdoor plants.

City staff said they are also reducing irrigation in parks by up to 40 per cent this summer, which may result in dry or brown grass in some public spaces as water is prioritized for sports fields and higher-use amenities.

Residents can also access Water Smart programs including rebates for drought-tolerant landscaping and irrigation controllers, as well as free irrigation assessments for City water customers.

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by Vernon Matters Staff
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