Public Notice

Public Notice: Successful Submarine Pipeline Repair Complete

As of 12:25PM today, June 8th 2023, District of Tofino Public Works crews successfully isolated and repaired a leak on a submarine water pipeline connecting Tofino to its drinking water reservoirs on Meares Island in the Haahuulthii of the Tla-o-qui-aht Ha'wiih. Stage 2 Water Conservation remains in effect, and all other temporary restrictions have been lifted.

The District of Tofino is grateful for the community’s collaboration and participation in water conservation during the short but vulnerable window of time when the repair was conducted. The District thanks the community of Tofino for their quick response and notable consumption decrease given the urgent notice. The District is thankful for the dedicated public works staff who discovered, isolated and repaired the leak in a safe and efficient process.

On Wednesday, June 7, during a routine water source inspection on Meares Island, crews identified a leak in the submarine pipeline that supplies water from Meares Island to the Bay Street Water Treatment Facility.  In order to isolate and repair the leak, a partial shutdown of our water system occurred between 7AM – 11:30AM on Thursday, June 8. The restrictions were necessary to ensure adequate reserves for fire protection. District Staff communicated directly with major water users to encourage conservation during the restricted window.

The pipeline repair has strengthened the resilience of Tofino’s water system by maximizing water collected on Meares Island, protected by Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks in the Haahuulthii of the Tla-o-qui-aht Ha'wiih, ⁠and will ensure that our resources will last longer throughout the summer.

Stage 2 Water Conservation measures remain in effect for all businesses, residents and visitors. Please continue to conserve water during an already dry and hot summer season. The District is encouraging all users to reach a goal of conserving water by 20% compared to 2022 consumption. Participate and track Tofino’s water consumption weekly during the 20% Challenge by visiting talktofino.ca/water-conservation

CONTACT

Keegan McColl

Communications Coordinator

District of Tofino

(T) 250 725 3229

(E) ac.onifot@snoitacinummoc