Skip to content

Water quality advisory issued for Nelson

Run-off has created a high level of turbidity in the city’s drinking water
21703883_web1_200604-KWS-NelsonWater-Advisory_1
Brown water is seen in Cottonwood Creek below Baker Street in Nelson. Photo: Bill Metcalfe

The City of Nelson, in consultation with the Interior Health Authority, has issued a water quality advisory for the city.

“Ongoing testing indicates that the current water quality in the Nelson drinking water supply is [classified as] fair due to recent spring run-off events, which have resulted in increased turbidity or cloudiness in the drinking water,” a city news release states.

Interior Health recommends children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection should drink boiled water, or a safe alternative.

For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.

“The city continues to monitor water quality at our source and throughout our system,” the news release states. “However, a significant amount of high mountain snowpack remains to melt.”