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Cowichan Lake water levels currently lower than 2023 during major drought

According to the environment manager at Catalyst’s Crofton mill, Cowichan Lake was at 75 percent capacity on May 26, 2025, although this level remains below what was recorded on the same date in 2023.
This lower level follows the 2023 drought that drew down lake levels quickly due to absent snow pack and river flow held at 15 cms, compared to 2025's lower flow of seven cms with some snow still melting.
During the 2023 drought, Catalyst operated 20 pumps over the weir throughout September and October to maintain river water levels; this intervention was unnecessary in 2024 thanks to improved conditions.
Approximately 84,000 fish died in 2023, but no fish kills occurred in 2024 when flows of seven cms were maintained without pumping, with Houle noting recent cloudy weather and rainfall have aided watershed conditions.
The continuing snow melt, lower river flow, and supportive weather forecasts suggest water levels may improve before the 2025 dry season, although provincial and federal fisheries emphasize actions remain necessary.

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