Drought Affects Oil and Gas Biz In Peace Region

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C. -- Effective immediately, the B.C. Oil & Gas Commission has suspended surface water withdrawals in the Peace River Region.

In a directive issued to oil and gas industry clients today, the Commission is suspending previously approved withdrawals from the Kiskatinaw River, Pine River, Halfway River and Moberly River in the Peace River Watershed.

Commission Hydrologist, Allan Chapman, says the basin is experiencing a persistent and severe summer drought.  He says precipitation has been 30-percent of normal rainfall since mid-May, and river levels are unusually low.

Chapman says the suspensions are necessary to maintain river flows for community water supply and for critical fish habitat.

The suspension will be lifted with the drought conditions ease, due to rainfall.  The Commission says, should it be required, it will assist industry stakeholders in identifying options for alternate short-term water supply.

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