The hot, dry weather this summer has lead to Level 3 (Very Dry) Drought conditions for much of the province, including the Cowichan Region. This is the second highest level of drought and calls for voluntary 30% reductions in water use. The Koksilah and Chemainus Rivers are at critically low levels, and flows in the Cowichan River have been reduced below the minimum required for healthy fish populations.

In response to the need for water conservation, additional water use restrictions are being implemented across the region. Effective Monday, August 6, all CVRD and municipal water systems, along with many improvement districts will be at a minimum Stage 2 water restrictions.

Shellwood, Woodley Range, Chemainus, and Cowichan Bay Waterworks systems will be under Stage 3 water restrictions. To determine which restrictions apply to you, please see our Water Restrictions Page.

Residents on wells are encouraged to practice water conservation as well.