Boaters asked to keep wakes down near shores on Okanagan Lake

Photo: RDCO

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is urging caution on the lake as water levels continue to rise.

Okanagan Lake is currently just nine centimetres below “full pool” and is expected to exceed that target level as the late spring melt continues.

Boaters are being asked to keep it slow and stay away from the shoreline to reduce wave damage to lakeshore properties.

“We know that as we move into more seasonal weather conditions, more people will be out enjoying activities on our lakes,” said Sandra Follack, Central Okanagan regional emergency program coordinator.

“Over the next several weeks while lake levels are high, we’d appreciate if boaters and personal watercraft users would keep their speed down when approaching or travelling near shorelines. Reducing wake activity will help prevent shoreline erosion. Also, when out on the water please watch for potentially damaging floating debris that is carried into area lakes from faster flowing tributaries.”

Creeks across the Central Okanagan are flowing faster, and water levels are fluctuating. Those living near creeks, streams and low-lying properties that have experienced flooding and high water in the past are responsible for having an emergency plan as well as the tools and equipment to protect properties from possible damage.

People and their pets should stay safety back from creek banks, which may be slippery or subject to erosion throughout freshet season.

Find resources and learn more about creating an emergency preparedness plan at cordemergency.ca/beprepared.

Photo: Castanet Staff