Water licences are often located along a river or stream that is known to run low at certain times of the year. In these places, water use can have a significant effect on both users and habitats located downstream, particularly during dry seasons or at critical life cycle stages for fish. These interconnections within a watershed need to be taken into consideration if social and environmental quality is to be kept at a high standard. Though most British Columbians consider water an invaluable and essential element for life, that consideration does not inspire conservation. Rather, it reinforces the position that water should be made available at little or no cost to the consumer.
Water is perceived by many to be infinitely plentiful.
But water is not infinite.