As temperatures continue to drop, Dawson Creek’s water source inches closer to freezing. Luckily, recent snowfall coupled with milder temperatures restocked the city’s reservoirs.
The Kiskatinaw River is beginning to freeze, according to Kevin Henderson, the chief administrative officer at the city of Dawson Creek. He said the city has enough water heading into this winter, with 180 days of stored water and topped off reservoirs.
During their weekly review of the city’s sole water source, the city noted the river flow is slowing – but is still rapid enough for the city to continue extracting water, Henderson told the city council. He said the city will continue doing so for as long as possible.
The current supply could suffice for the winter months. However, Dawson Creek city staff are taking proactive steps to avoid the possibility of running out of water. One short term project staff is working on includes an emergency overland water transportation system.
“The emergency overland water transfer would be temporary. It would include running lay flat hose along highway corridors from the Peace River to the Dawson Creek water system – a solution that is supported by the province,” the city explained in an update last week.
Currently, staff and consultants are working on permits and preparing to lay the hose. If work goes according to the city’s schedule, Dawson Creek anticipates it to be ready early next year. The city will hear back from the province regarding permits in mid-to-late-December, the CAO told the council.
By having everything arranged ahead of time, Henderson said it will bring “peace of mind” to the south Peace city.
Residents of Dawson Creek “stepped up, reducing the average total city demand for daily water usage through conservation measures.” Stage three water conservation measures were enacted in September and will remain in place, the city said.
