June 2026 Update

The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) and Town of Ladysmith are pleased to announce that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the framework for a treated bulk water supply agreement for the Saltair Water Service in Electoral Area G.

Under the MOU, the CVRD and Town of Ladysmith have committed to negotiating an agreement that will outline how the Town will supply treated bulk water to the Saltair Water Service, including terms and conditions of the arrangement. This work supports the CVRD's ongoing efforts to achieve compliance with provincial Drinking Water Treatment Objectives for Surface Water in B.C.

The two communities have a longstanding water relationship, including joint ownership of Stocking Lake Dam and a shared reliance on Stocking Lake as a water source. The MOU builds on this foundation, establishing a future connection to receive water treated at the Town of Ladysmith's Water Filtration Plant. The water supply from Ladysmith will supplement the Saltair Water System's two newly constructed groundwater wells, providing a reliable secondary source during periods of higher demand.

Key elements of the future agreement, as outlined in the MOU, include:

• Water Quality and Fire Flows: The CVRD will be responsible for managing water quality and fire flow requirements within the Saltair Water Service, starting at the connection points with Ladysmith’s Municipal Water Service.
• Bulk Water Fees and Charges:The CVRD will compensate Ladysmith for treated bulk water supplied, including:
  • A bulk water rate per cubic metre to cover the Town’s operating costs.
  • An annual property parcel tax to fund water-related debt and capital projects.
  • A one-time capital charge on existing and future parcels to fund shared water infrastructure projects that benefit both communities.
• Operations and Maintenance: Ladysmith and CVRD will continue to operate, maintain, and repair their separate water services in accordance with standard engineering practices.
• No Cost to Town Residents: Ladysmith residents and other areas receiving treated bulk water service will not be responsible for any costs associated with supplying bulk water to Saltair.

Click to view the full news release.