Water Management Water Conser v ation | Water Quali t y | Stormw ater and Water she d Management | L iquid Was te Management
UNDERSTANDING WATER MANAGEMENT Water management in Coquitlam includes planning, developing and managing the quality and quantity of all water resources. In Metro Vancouver, we have access to a high-quality drinking water supply. Meeting fluctuating seasonal demands for residential water use alongside commercial, agricultural and industrial needs and ensuring that wastewater is efficiently conveyed and processed are challenges that remain a high priority for the City and other levels of government.
Coquitlam River
Coquitlam Lake Reservoir
Water Management and Climate Change
Drinking Water Conservation and Quality
The impacts of climate change will significantly affect all aspects of water management including infrastructure. Applying a climate change lens to all water management decisions going forward will ensure that the City is being proactive and responsible in adapting to climate change. Ongoing adaptation measures will be required due to changes to rainfall and snowpack levels resulting from predicted climate change impacts.
Our temperate rainforest region receives significant rainfall each year, however energy, resources, infrastructure and a reliable reservoir supply are required to bring treated drinking water to our taps. Responsible use of our water resources not only benefits our natural ecosystems, but also keeps the City’s water distribution systems running efficiently and delays major costs to upgrade and expand our infrastructure. Seasonal water conservation is especially important to ensure that adequate drinking water is available during the hotter and drier summer season and is accessible for unforeseen emergencies (e.g. major service disruption and firefighting). Climate change, infrastructure costs and a growing population increase the need to protect drinking water, enhance water conservation efforts and monitor water quality.
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City of Coquitlam | Environmental Sustainability Plan