Urgent Alert: Cumberland County Faces Mandatory Water Restrictions Amidst Critical Scarcity

Residents and businesses across a significant portion of Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, are now under strict mandatory water conservation orders as the region grapples with critically low water levels. The Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change announced the immediate restrictions, effective June 18, 2024, emphasizing the urgent need to protect dwindling water resources in the Pugwash River Watershed.

The affected areas include the communities of Pugwash, Pugwash Junction, and Gulf Shore.

This decisive action comes as the Pugwash River, a vital water source, is experiencing alarmingly low flow rates, exacerbated by high demand for both drinking water and agricultural use, coupled with minimal recent rainfall.

These mandatory restrictions are comprehensive, targeting all non-essential water use.

Residents are strictly prohibited from:

• Watering lawns, gardens, and sports fields.
• Washing vehicles, driveways, or sidewalks.
• Filling swimming pools and hot tubs.
• Engaging in any other non-essential water activities.

While essential uses such as drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene remain permitted, all residents are strongly urged to conserve water wherever possible.

Businesses within the affected zone are also mandated to drastically reduce their non-essential water consumption, and agricultural operations must significantly cut back on non-essential irrigation practices.

Department officials will actively monitor compliance, and those found violating the restrictions could face penalties.

These measures will remain in effect indefinitely until environmental conditions improve, and the water levels in the Pugwash River Watershed return to sustainable levels.

This isn't the first time Cumberland County has faced such dire circumstances; similar restrictions were implemented in 2020.

The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between community needs and environmental capacity. The Department of Environment and Climate Change is appealing to all residents and businesses for their full cooperation and understanding during this critical period, stressing that collective effort is essential to navigate this challenge successfully.