UPDATE: On Sunday, Feb.8, the city of Fort St John said “crews have confirmed the repair was successful and have begun flushing the line and restoring full pressure.” Bulk water dispensing stations reopened this morning.
Guidelines on water use in Fort St. John will temporarily be in effect this week as residents work together to ensure reservoir supplies last.
Repairs on the water main that draws water from wells near the Peace River in south Taylor will begin Thursday, Feb. 5. Fixing the main is expected to take about 48 hours.
“A recently discovered leak in the feeder main requires immediate action. Because this main is essential to supplying water for the community, the city will be unable to fill water reservoirs while repairs are underway. Your assistance in conserving water is vital,” the city of Fort St. John said in a notice to residents.
“To ensure sufficient water remains available for essential services, including fire protection, the city is asking all residents and businesses to reduce water consumption as much as possible during the repair period.”
When operating normally, the reservoirs can hold five days’ worth of water. On average, the city uses 7,300 cubic metres of water per day. By reducing consumption, residents can help stretch the supply in the reservoirs.
Residents are being asked to conserve water by delaying laundry, dishwashing and other non-essential water use, cutting down shower time, and not refilling personal hot tubs. Bulk water stations will also be shut down until repairs are complete.
“We are committed to monitoring reservoir levels closely and providing regular updates as work progresses,” the city said.
The main being repaired is 11 kilometres long and carries raw well water to the treatment centre. It is the city’s only source of water for replenishing its two reservoirs.
