Drought
2023 not only ushered in the hottest year ever recorded in Canadian history, but the summer was also a period of severe drought for B.C. farmers, and the threat of drought continues to soar alongside rising temperatures.
What is Drought?
A drought is described as a prolonged period of time with a severe lack of precipitation, resulting in a water shortage. This water shortage has serious negative effects on agriculture, economies, and health.
Around 80% of regions across British Columbia experienced drought during the 2023 summer. During this time, two-thirds of B.C.’s water basins were severely depleted.
Drought reduces crop growth and compromises water quality. The province of B.C. has made many resources and supports available for farmers and food producers experiencing drought.
These drought conditions also severely increase the risk of wildfire. Not only do the dry conditions make it easier for a fire to ignite, it also causes the fire to spread faster and burn longer.
Wildlife is also affected by the impact of drought. For example, drought creates warm water conditions which can leave cold-water fish species such as trout and salmon extremely vulnerable to low oxygen levels and disease. There may be preventative actions taken to protect vulnerable fish species during a period of drought.
Bears are also more likely to frequent urban areas during a drought as they search for food. You can discourage bears from entering your residence by cleaning up and securing your garbage.
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Click here to view some water-saving tips.
Rebates and Subsidies
If you're looking to curb your water consumption, BC Hydro offers 3 different rebates and subsidies for qualifying households. There are also several rebates available at the municipal level as well. Check below to find any available in your area.
Province Wide:
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BC Hydro provides Free Energy Saving Kits (for income-qualified households)
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BC Hydro provides Free Portable Air Conditioners (for income-qualified households)
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BC Hydro provides Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates (for income-qualified households)
Abbotsford and Mission
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Abbotsford and Mission residents are eligible for a free Irrigation and Land Assessment
City of Chilliwack
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Rain Barrel Rebate Program. The City of Chilliwack's Rain Barrel Rebate Program will cover 50% of the cost (before tax) up to a maximum rebate value of $80 for a new rain barrel that was purchased on or after January 1, 2023.
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Toilet Rebate Program. Install a low-flow toilet and apply for a $50 rebate.
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Water Conservation Kits are available for a subsidized price at City Hall.
City of Coquitlam
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The City of Coquitlam offers low-cost sales of water wise tools
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Toilet Rebate Tax Credit Pilot. Replace your old toilet with a water efficient one and receive $100 off of your water utility bill.
Delta
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Single-family homeowners are eligible for the Voluntary Water Meter Program
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Subsidized Rain Barrel Program
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Subsidized Water Saver Kits
City of Port Coquitlam
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Heat Pump Group Purchase Rebate. CleanBC Better Homes offers a heat pump group purchase rebate of up to $500 for homeowners switching from an oil, natural gas, or propane heating system to an eligible air source heat pump.
Maple Ridge
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Low-Flow Toilet Tax Credit. Maple Ridge homeowners are eligible to receive a $50 utility tax credit by replacing their older toilet with a new, low-flow toilet.
Richmond
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Toilet Rebate Program. Install a low-flush toilet and receive a $100 utility rebate.