Water is commonly thought to be plentiful on BC’s west coast; an assumption that has traditionally shaped our decisions about everything from planning our home gardens to designing and operating cooling systems and industrial processes. However, the rising cost of providing drinking water from finite sources in growing urban areas is rendering many traditional water using devices, systems and practices obsolete.

The goal of this project was to look at how tourist accommodation operators on Salt Spring Island could adopt best water conservation practices. This tied into the 'Green Accommodations' initiative developed by the local Chamber of Commerce, one of the goals of which was to ensure that tourism on Salt Spring Island would become a beacon of environmental stewardship and a model for sustainability which the rest of the Gulf Islands could look to as an example of best practice in the industry.

Metro Vancouver’s reservoirs are full now, but an unusually hot, dry start to the summer combined with rapid snowmelt means the area could be facing water shortages later in the year.

Tofino is presently under stage two (of a possible four) water use restrictions that includes a ban on any outdoor watering. Additionally, residents and businesses are asked not to consume any water between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Water demand in Tofino is following the same trends as it did in 2006 – the summer the town nearly shut down because of heavy demand, low precipitation and low supply.

The Comox Valley Regional District has launched a pilot toilet rebate program as part of its plan to achieve a 27 percent reduction in water consumption by 2014.

The LEED Gold building incorporates an advanced rainwater management system that includes a green roof, a 16,000-litre cistern and rain garden that will filter and reuse nearly 100 percent of the site’s rainwater.

The Comox Valley Regional District has recognized two homeowners and one local business for creating water wise landscapes and for their commitment to reducing water consumption.

Drawing on the experience of two international experts, workshops held in Vancouver and in Victoria in 2005 connected the dots between WHY harvest rainwater and HOW to cost-effectively implement rainwater collection, storage, treatment and delivery systems.

The site may be used as a useful reference for businesses, residents and anyone else who is interested in knowing what Tofino is doing about water conservation.

This event helps launch the "Future of Water Law and Governance in Canada" – a new program at the POLIS Water Sustainability Project. Bob will share his experiences as they relate to current efforts to modernize the BC Water Act.

A commitment to “preserve water for the next generation” means that all new demands for water will be met through conservation and efficiency rather than expanding supply.

Tofino has emerged as a case study of interest because the municipality faces the challenge of reducing water demand during a period of climate change.

Development activity and population growth is putting extreme pressure on regional water resources. A key message is that the Comox Valley needs to use less water for a number of reasons.