Urgent Water Pumps Arrive as Cowichan River Faces Drought

BREAKING: Authorities confirm that 20 large water pumps will be deployed to the Cowichan River area by September 15 to combat dangerously low water levels and maintain essential river flows. As of August 13, Cowichan Lake’s water storage capacity plummeted to just 16.5 percent, prompting urgent action to protect aquatic life and water quality.

Brian Houle, Environment Manager at the Domtar Crofton mill, announced that flow from Cowichan Lake will be reduced to 4.5 cubic metres per second starting August 14. This reduction aims to conserve water until significant rainfall returns later this fall.

“We are coordinating the delivery of pumps ahead of need to ensure we can sustain the river’s base flow,” Houle stated. “Weather forecasts indicate rain is on the way, with the potential for substantial rainfall.”

The dire situation follows a severe drought that struck the region last summer, leading to the tragic deaths of approximately 84,000 fish in the Cowichan River due to low water levels and poor water quality. The high water temperature, recorded at 22.9°C during the recent heatwave, has raised alarms among environmentalists and residents alike.

Domtar is taking proactive measures to address the current crisis. As flows decrease, qualified professionals will aid in salvaging stranded fish and monitoring water quality to assess habitat health. “Understanding water quality is vital as we navigate these low flows,” Houle added.

In light of the critical situation, weekly consultations with regulatory bodies and stakeholders are set to continue, allowing for quick adjustments in river flow based on the anticipated rainfall.

As the situation unfolds, community members and environmental advocates are urged to stay informed and support local efforts to protect the Cowichan River. The coming days will be crucial as officials monitor weather patterns and prepare for the pumps’ deployment.

Residents are encouraged to share this urgent update to raise awareness about the challenges facing the Cowichan River and to promote conservation efforts.