While working at a BNB situated on the Salmon River with a former partner, we lost access to our well water for one week. One day the pump stopped working, preventing the water from flowing to the house. Rather than buying bottled water, we decided to gather large containers and began collecting water from the river running in front of the house. We did not know whether it was safe to drink so we boiled it just in case. To make matters more difficult, we had a guest staying the night.

As the days went by and we continued to collect water, it became apparent just how much was needed for things we typically take for granted such as flushing the toilet or washing the dishes. It was a sobering realization learning how much water we were consuming, particularly when we had to carry it, rather than simply turn a tap! Even after the pump was fixed and the flow of water resumed, I still took care to limit my water usage. My parents often say that there's no need to be concerned with conserving water in that region as there is a surplus of ground water. Despite this, I believe we should use water as if there isn't because one day there may not be.

This experience made me feel more connected to the river than ever. One spring, I co-organized a ditch cleanup to prevent littered garbage from being washed into the river and out to the estuary. This event brought the community together and contributed to greater awareness surrounding the prevalence of waste in our local waterways. Every year I look forward to visiting the river especially when the salmon spawn because I can sit in the canoe with my dogs and watch them swim below!