This region nearly ran out of water. Locals and experts say other Canadian towns should pay attention
As the effects of climate change continue to impact communities across the globe, the issue of water scarcity is becoming increasingly prevalent. In a recent episode of What On Earth, the spotlight was on Banditry Cider in Gibsons, B.C., where the owner, James Armstrong, found himself facing water shortages that threatened the very existence of his craft cidery.
Banditry Cider is nestled on a picturesque rural property, surrounded by rows of apple trees and a serene pond filled with ducks. When Armstrong first purchased the property five years ago, he never imagined that water would become a pressing concern. However, in recent years, the Sunshine Coast Regional District has implemented severe watering restrictions during droughts, leaving Armstrong and other farmers struggling to keep their crops alive.
The most severe drought in 2022 prompted the SCRD to declare a local state of emergency, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to water scarcity. With only one water source, Chapman Lake, the community was ill-prepared for prolonged dry spells. Armstrong was forced to halt cider production and watch helplessly as trees in his orchard withered and died due to lack of water.
Alton Toth, chair of the SCRD, acknowledged that past governments had failed to adequately plan for the impacts of climate change amidst rapid development in the region. However, steps are now being taken to address the water crisis, including installing water meters, repairing leaks, and exploring new sources of water supply.
Toth emphasized the importance of proactive planning and investment in water infrastructure to prevent future crises. While water fees and taxes have increased in the SCRD, he believes that these measures are necessary to ensure water security for the community.
Deborah Curran, a professor at the University of Victoria, stressed the need for a shift in how we view and manage water resources. She highlighted the importance of using water judiciously and planning for future growth and tourism to avoid similar water shortages in other communities.
For Armstrong, the water crisis served as a wake-up call to rethink his approach to water management. He has implemented irrigation systems and is expanding his pond to ensure a reliable water supply for his cidery. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful but cautious about the future, especially for the sake of his children and the natural beauty of the region.
As communities grapple with the realities of climate change, the lessons learned from the water crisis on the Sunshine Coast serve as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize sustainable water management practices. By thinking differently about water and investing in resilient infrastructure, we can safeguard our water resources for future generations.
