Vernon Committee Rejects Orchardists' Coldstream Aquifer Well Proposal

The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee declined to endorse a proposal by orchardists David Geen and John Byland to drill three wells into the Coldstream aquifer. The project aimed to mitigate a severe drought that led to Stage 3 water restrictions and a 70 per cent reduction in agricultural water allocations, threatening local fruit trees.

Regional District of North Okanagan staff and officials opposed the plan, citing a preliminary study that indicates a direct connection between the aquifer and Kalamalka Lake. Mayor Victor Cumming and other directors argued that groundwater withdrawal would jeopardize the lake's already low water levels, which serve as a primary source of drinking water for the community.

Despite the lack of local endorsement, Geen and Byland intend to move forward with their application for a temporary use permit. The final decision rests with the provincial Ministry of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship.