Following the Bald Range Wildfire, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is encouraging property owners in the Faulder area to identify and inspect any wells on their property.

When the Faulder Water System was established in 1993, many homes transitioned from private wells to the community water system. As a result, some properties may still contain older wells that were never properly decommissioned. Property owners may not be aware these wells exist.

Wildfire damage and recovery activities can affect well heads and caps, creating a pathway for contaminants to enter the Meadow Valley Aquifer, the groundwater source that supplies drinking water to residents in Meadow Valley, Faulder, and along Princeton-Summerland Road.

Property owners are encouraged to:

1. Locate your well - Before debris removal or site restoration begins, identify and mark the location of your well to prevent accidental damage. Not sure if there is a well on your property? RDOS Utilities staff can assist with a property search. Call 250-490-4135.

2. Inspect the well head and cap - Wildfire heat may damage the well cap seal that helps protect groundwater from contamination. Check for:

• Melting or warping
• Cracks or breaks
• Missing or displaced parts
• Openings where ash, dust, debris, or water could enter

3. Repair any damage - If the well head or cap is damaged, or if you are unsure of its condition, contact a qualified well driller for assessment and repairs.

4. Test your water - Follow Interior Health guidance for testing private well water, especially if your property was affected by wildfire or restoration activities:

• interiorhealth.ca/health-and-wellness/natural-disasters-and-emergencies/wildfires#water-quality-and-your-health-
•  interiorhealth.ca/health-and-wellness/environmental-health-and-hazards/drinking-water

For further information, please email RDOS Communications at communications@rdos.bc.ca or call 250-490-4148 or toll-free at 1-877-610-3737.