Despite public concern, the brown coloured water flowing from taps in West Kelowna is simply a result of "aesthetic discolouration," and is safe to drink, according to the City of West Kelowna. 

At a July 23, City Council meeting, Mayor Mayor Gord Milsom brought forward the issue of water discoloration, which is currently impacting the 19,650 West Kelowna residents who receive water from the new Rose Valley Water Treatment Plant. 

Allen Fillion, the director of engineering and operations for the new treatment plant spoke at the meeting to reassure council and residents that while the water is not aesthetically pleasing, it is safe to consume. 

"The Rose Valley water treatment plant continues to provide clean, safe and reliable drinking water that meets or exceeds federal and provincial standards," said Fillion. 

He said that post-treatment, discoloration is occurring within the system, which is causing the water to be tinged brown.

"It is more of an aesthetic issue," said Fillion. The water is being discoloured after being treated, likely due to the increased flow as demand for water had spiked in the hot weather.

In light of the discoloration, treatment facility staff have increased monitoring, testing and sampling of the water.

Fillion said testing results show that the drinking water standards set by Interior Health continue to be met and there is no concern for public health. There is no boil-water advisory at this time. 

If residents wish to use an alternative source of water due to the aesthetic discoloration, the bulk filling station at Asquith Road and Shannon Lake Road is available. 

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