City of Castlegar to Test Backup Water Supply
The City of Castlegar will conduct a planned 24-hour test of its North Well backup water supply between April 14–15, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a safe, reliable, and consistent water supply for the community.
During this test, the City will temporarily switch from its primary water source, the Arrow Lakes Reservoir, to the North Well, which serves as a backup supply in the event of an unexpected disruption. As a precaution, a community-wide Water Quality Advisory will be in place during the testing period.
What Residents Need to Know
- This is not a Boil Water Notice
- Water remains safe for most residents to use as normal
- The Water Quality Advisory is precautionary and related to the temporary change in water source
- Most people will not notice any difference in water quality, pressure, or taste
- The Water Quality Advisory is primarily intended for people with weakened immune systems or those seeking additional protection
A Water Quality Advisory indicates there is some level of risk associated with consuming the drinking water, but a Boil Water Notice is not needed. This type of advisory is commonly issued as a precaution when changes in source water occur and aligns with the Interior Health Authority’s guidance. The risk is elevated for people with weakened immune systems. Individuals seeking additional precaution may choose to boil their water.
“This is an important step in ensuring Castlegar is prepared for the unexpected,” said Ryan Niddery, Acting Director of Municipal Services. “By testing our backup water supply, we’re confirming that we can continue to provide safe drinking water to the community in the event of an emergency. This is proactive work that supports both public safety and long-term reliability.”
How the City is Communicating
To ensure residents are informed before, during and after the test, the City is using multiple communication channels:
- News release
- City website (castlegar.ca), including a homepage alert banner linking to the latest updates
- Voyent Alert! notifications (text, email, landline, and voicemail), including when the Water Quality Advisory is issued and rescinded
- Social media updates on Facebook @cityofcastlegar
- Print and radio ads
- Electronic message boards
- Direct communication with facilities supporting people with weakened immune systems
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for:
- City News & Notices
- Voyent Alert!
To sign up for both, visit castlegar.ca/subscribe
After the Test
Once the North Well testing is complete, the City will return to its regular water supply. The Water Quality Advisory will remain in place while follow-up water quality testing is completed. Once the water quality testing is completed, the City will issue a rescind notice.
Residents will be notified when the Water Quality Advisory is rescinded through Voyent Alert! and other City communication channels, including Facebook and the City website.
For more information about drinking water and how advisories may affect you, residents are encouraged to visit drinkingwaterforeveryone.ca.
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