Automatic irrigation systems, set to begin watering at midnight, are putting a burden onto Summerland’s water treatment plant.
Don Darling, director of engineering and public works for the municipality, said the demands on the system have come close to reaching Summerland’s peak capacity.
Under the present regulations, underground irrigation systems may be operated for up to three hours, between midnight and 6 a.m. Many of the systems are programmed to begin at midnight.
Darling said if the start times were staggered, the effect would reduce the demand on the treatment plant.
He urges those with automatic underground irrigation systems to consider staggering their start times.