INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is encouraging residents to conserve water this summer by embracing a natural, water-wise landscape through the launch of the Stay Gold Water Conservation Contest, running from June 1 to August 15, 2026. 

The contest invites residents served by RDOS-owned water systems to let their lawns turn golden during the hot summer months and submit a photo for a chance to win prizes. Each participating water system will award its own set of prizes, including $100 for first place, $50 for second place, and $25 for third place. 

Water conservation remains a shared priority across the region, particularly during the summer when outdoor watering can account for a significant portion of household water use. By reducing lawn watering, residents can help preserve water supplies for essential uses, protect local ecosystems, and support long-term water sustainability. 

“Letting your lawn go gold is one of the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water during the summer,” said RDOS Managing Director – Development and Infrastructure Services, Allen Fillion. “What many people don’t realize is that a golden lawn is not dead; it is dormant. Turf grass naturally goes into a protective resting state during hot, dry conditions and will green up again when cooler, wetter weather returns.” 

In addition to saving water, allowing lawns to go dormant can:

• Reduce water bills and overall water demand
• Support drought resilience in the community
• Encourage healthier, more sustainable landscaping practices

Residents can enter the contest by submitting a photo of their golden lawn online through the RDOS Regional Connections Water Conservation project page. Or email your golden lawn photo to utilities@rdos.bc.ca with the subject line “Stay Gold – YourWaterSystem” with your name and address.

The Stay Gold contest supports broader RDOS efforts to promote water conservation and raise awareness about responsible outdoor water use. Residents are encouraged to review current watering restrictions and conservation tips throughout the summer.

For further information about the Stay Gold contest and water conservation resources, visit rdosregionalconnections.ca or rdos.bc.ca.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

Contact:

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737

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