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Regional District of Central Okanagan: Nurturing Growth, Fostering Lifestyle
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Aquifers

What is an aquifer?

An aquifer is a natural underground reservoir that holds and provides groundwater to wells, streams and springs.

More than 23% of British Columbians depend on groundwater for their drinking water. Over 600 aquifers throughout BC provide water for municipal and industrial sources.

Aquifers in the Okanagan

There are over 25 known aquifers in the Central Okanagan. One-third of these aquifers are considered highly vulnerable to pollution from such substances as pesticides, fertilizers, manure, toxic chemicals, oils, paint and household garbage.   (Follow this link for Year Round Disposal Options of Hazardous Waste)  During the fall of 2004, the Regional District partnered with several organizations to install signs along roads throughout the Electoral Areas, raising public awareness of and drawing attention to Groundwater Protection Zones.  View a News Release and photo of the sign installation for the Powers Creek Aquifer. 

Some of our local Aquifers are: