Greater Vernon Water (GVW) advises customers supplied by the Goose Lake non-potable water source that the presence of cyanobacteria, a harmful blue-green algae, was identified in the lake through routine sampling. Current weather patterns have been ideal for algae growth. The numbers present are above safe levels for animal and livestock consumption. GVW crews will be treating with copper sulphate (an algaecide) as soon as possible.
In Goose Lake the occurrence of a harmful algae bloom is common and GVW is not always able to turn it off or guarantee timely treatment.
It is the customer’s responsibility to provide a safe water supply for animals and livestock and ensure on-site non-potable water sources are clearly labeled on the property. Non-potable signage can be downloaded for free from www.rdno.ca/agwater (under the Non-Potable Water tab).
Additional information on Cyanobacteria Blooms (Blue-Green Algae) is available at HealthLinkBC: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/cyanobacteria-blooms-blue-green-algae
Additional information on algae is available on the Ministry of Environment’s Algae Watch website:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/water-quality/algae-watch
Where can I find updates?
Agricultural water customers should sign up to receive specialized text, email, or voicemail supply alerts at https://www.rdno.ca/agwater (bottom right of webpage).
Updates will be posted to www.rdno.ca/news (filter by Water Notices). You can also subscribe to receive email updates at www.rdno.ca/subscribe.
If you have any questions, please contact the RDNO Utilities Department at 250-550-3700.