DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - Recent rainfall has improved conditions in the Kiskatinaw watershed, but the City of Dawson Creek says ongoing water conservation and careful management will remain necessary as drought conditions continue to affect the region’s primary water source.
The city said rainfall over the past several weeks has helped increase water levels in parts of the watershed, including at Bearhole Lake, located at the headwaters of the Kiskatinaw River. Water is now reaching the top of the lake’s weir, a sign that conditions have improved compared to this time last year.
Despite the positive development, officials say the watershed remains in drought and additional rainfall will be needed to support a long-term recovery. The city says its goal remains entering the winter season with full reservoirs to help ensure a reliable water supply.
Dawson Creek has been managing the impacts of ongoing drought conditions since last year, when water levels in the watershed dropped significantly and concerns grew about the community’s long-term water security.
Since then, the city has declared a local drought emergency, activated its Emergency Operations Centre, and implemented a range of conservation measures aimed at protecting available water supplies.
City staff have also increased monitoring of watershed conditions, reservoir levels and stream flows, while working with regional partners, provincial agencies and technical experts to assess risks and response options.
The city says that work continues today. Staff are regularly reviewing water supply data, tracking rainfall and watershed recovery, and holding emergency management meetings to evaluate conditions and determine next steps. Water conservation measures also remain in place, with officials adjusting operational decisions as conditions change.
As part of its drought response, Dawson Creek has also prepared an Emergency Overland Water Transfer plan that could provide temporary supplemental water from another source if a future water scarcity event threatens the city’s supply.
At the same time, the municipality continues to advance its long-term Water Supply System Project, an initiative designed to improve water security and reliability for future generations.
While city officials say the recent rainfall and rising water levels at Bearhole Lake are encouraging, they stress that conditions remain under close observation and that a cautious, data-driven approach will continue throughout the summer.
Residents can find more information about drought conditions and the city’s water management efforts through the City of Dawson Creek.