Reservoir Levels & Water Use

Under normal historic average snowpack conditions, water levels in Metro Vancouver’s three reservoirs can be maintained from October to March. Snowpack typically starts melting around April, and the reservoirs are drawn down until early fall when the rain returns.

Metro Vancouver posts weekly reservoir storage levels from May to October, when rainfall is lower and the regional demand for water can increase by 50%.

Note that data from 2015 is included, to show impact of extreme dry weather conditions on total source storage.

With a higher than average snowpack and cool weather forecast for spring, we expect to reach “full pool” prior to the peak of the summer weather. At this time, Metro Vancouver is operating both reservoirs below full storage levels until the end of May as we support the migration of juvenile salmon at Seymour Reservoir and slowly refill Capilano Reservoir to the maximum operating elevation. Although we are currently operating below full storage levels, there is sufficient water in the system to meet the needs of the region for the 2022 summer.

Importance of Water Conservation

Drinking water is a precious resource that must be managed and used wisely. Please do your part by using a little less water and not wasting it, so that we may continue to meet demand throughout the summer.

Visit WeLoveWater.ca for easy tips on how to conserve water both indoors and outdoors.

Lawn watering accounts for over half the drinking water used for summertime activities. Under region-wide regulations in effect May 1 through October 15, residential lawn watering is allowed one day per week at set times determined by address. Find allowed watering days and times for your home or business at Lawn Watering Regulations.

Regional Water Use Versus Precipitation

Rainfall refills the reservoirs during the winter and spring, but dry periods and higher water use in the summer lower the reservoirs' water levels – and our drinking water supply.

Precipitation and water use values reflect averaged 2003 to 2019 data. Precipitation values are collected from the Capilano Reservoir, and are significantly higher than urban sites in the region.