Home »
Edgewater reservoirs filling as turbidity levels drop
Twelve days after a debris flow in the watershed that feeds the Edgewater water system, turbidity levels are dropping in Lake Baptiste and the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) has re-opened the intake into its steel reservoirs.
“While turbidity levels in the lake are still higher than normal, they have improved enough that yesterday we were able to turn the intake into the steel reservoirs back on and begin filling them,” explained Information Officer Loree Duczek. “We continued to haul water yesterday to help during the filling process and the towers were fully filled last night.”
As a result, residents who have been limiting all non-essential water use since June 1 are now able to resume regular water use.
“It is important to note that the Boil Water Notice remains in effect as the turbidity levels are still high and it could take some time for the lake to settle and those turbidity levels to drop,” added Duczek.
Water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making juice or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled at a rolling boil for at least ONE MINUTE.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Village of Radium, which has been an outstanding partner through this emergency. Without them allowing us to access and haul water from Radium, there would have been a much more significant impact on the community,” said RDEK Electoral Area G Director Gerry Wilkie. “In addition, I want to thank our RDEK operators who have been working tirelessly to maintain water service to the community and the residents who have not only been conserving water, but who have been patient and understanding throughout.”
Continued updates and information will be posted via the RDEK’s email groups, website and social media pages. To sign up for the email notification or the Evacuation Notification Alert system, visit www.rdek.bc.ca.
e-KNOW file photo
RDEK
