The city of Dawson Creek is making progress on its Water Supply System Project as it works to secure a more reliable long-term water source.
According to an update presented to city council on Monday, staff have completed important steps in Phase 1 of the project.
The city currently relies on a single watershed, the Kiskatinaw River, for its water supply.
The reports shows several new water sources are being considered, including the Peace, Pine and Murray rivers, where water sampling is underway.
Staff have completed population growth projections for the next 25 and 50 years, along with forecasts for future water demand.
The city is also planning potential pipeline routes and water intake locations while engaging with Indigenous communities and stakeholders.
Staff have also identified Hansen Reservoir and South Dawson Reservoir as potential discharge locations, allowing the project to make use of existing water storage infrastructure west of the city.
Dawson Creek returned to Stage 1 water restrictions in May after improved drought conditions allowed the city to move back from Stage 3 measures.
As of last month, Dawson Creek’s raw water storage reservoirs held more than 170 days of supply, giving the city time to respond if conditions change.
However, despite reservoirs being nearly full, the city remains vulnerable to drought as it still depends on only one water source.
The city completed the Early Engagement process conducted with the BC Environmental Assessment Office in March, which confirmed the urgent need for a new water supply.
Phase 1 is expected to be completed in mid-August, when council will receive a report comparing viable water supply options and outlining recommended next steps.