The regional water supply is operated by the Comox Valley Regional District. The City of Courtenay supports water conservation in its municipal operations wherever possible.
Maintenance work on all utility systems conserves water through leak repairs and replacement of old water meters.
Courtenay residents may be eligible for a range of rebates through the Comox Valley Regional District, including water incentive rebates.
How the City conserves water
The City manages irrigation systems in parks and continually looks for ways to reduce water use. Improvements to irrigation infrastructure and operations help conserve water while maintaining safe sports fields.
Water conservation methods include:
- Smart irrigation systems
Most City irrigation systems are connected to a central control system that adjusts watering based on weather conditions. Watering is reduced during rain events and periods of water restrictions. - Leak detection and maintenance
Irrigation systems are monitored for leaks and damaged sprinkler heads so repairs can be made quickly and water is not wasted. - More efficient infrastructure
Older irrigation systems are gradually being upgraded with more efficient technologies, including drip irrigation systems. - Reduced watering during restrictions
The City reduces irrigation in parks and boulevards when water restrictions are in effect while maintaining safe sports fields and protecting young trees.
There are a few factors that the City can't control. These include:
- Vandalism to sprinkler heads and pipes
This sometimes causes sprinkler heads to spray over hard surfaces. City staff repair these as they are discovered or when notified by the public. - Older, less efficient systems
The City would like to rebuild some of these systems, but the expenditure will need to be phased over time. - Sand-based premier fields
These are designed to shed winter rains for playability, and require water in the summer or the turf will die within days. - School sites
The school district manages irrigation on school sites. - Private systems
Many boulevards are irrigated with private systems. These are often confused for municipal systems.
Report a problem
If you see a problem with irrigation in our parks and boulevards, such as a damaged or misaligned sprinkler head, please report it through the City's online service request form or contact Operational Services.
Report a watering infraction
To report watering on private property that may not comply with restrictions (business or residential), email waterconservation@courtenay.ca or call 250-334-4441.
What to expect during dry summers
During particularly dry weather years, the City may further reduce irrigation to conserve water. As a result:
- Some boulevards may turn brown.
- Some parks may turn brown. Irrigation will be prioritized to protect young trees and maintain safe sports fields.
- The City is investigating options for lower flow heads in the water park.
- The City will continue upgrading irrigation systems to improve efficiency.