Press Release
Elk Ridge Estates Ltd. Secures Conditional Water License to Advance Sustainable
Development in the Paldi Area of Cowichan Valley B.C.
Duncan, BC – November 20, 2024 – Elk Ridge Estates Ltd. is pleased to announce the issuance
of a Conditional Water License by the Province of British Columbia, a key step forward for the
Paldi/Elk Ridge Community development in the Cowichan Valley. This important approval
follows nearly a decade of collaboration with the provincial government (Ministry of Forests,
Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development), The Cowichan Tribes and the
Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD), which is a co-applicant on the license.
This milestone allows Elk Ridge Estates Ltd, operating as The Elk Ridge Community, to begin
infrastructure development for the 400-acre Paldi master-planned community. The first phase
will focus on the Elk Ridge Community, a 196-acre mixed-use commercial-residential project,
including the construction of essential water and sewer utilities, with ongoing works,
coordination and collaboration with the CVRD to ensure the project meets community needs and
regulatory requirements.
The newly issued license permits Elk Ridge Estates Ltd. to utilize up to 492,750 cubic meters of
water annually, with a maximum daily capacity of 2,700 cubic meters. The license takes a staged
approach, with water allocation increasing as each phase of development progresses. This phased
approach will support the development of at least 500 housing units within the Paldi-zoned area
over time, ensuring that water resources are carefully managed as the community grows.
"This license represents a crucial step in addressing the region's housing needs," said David
Salmon, CEO of Elk Ridge Estates Ltd. "We are committed to sustainable development and are
excited to be taking action to provide much-needed housing in the Cowichan Valley, while also
ensuring that the project adheres to environmentally responsible practices. Our ongoing work

with the CVRD on phase one of this development reflects our commitment to delivering high-
quality, sustainable infrastructure that serves both the community and the environment."

The staged water allocation outlined in the license allows for flexibility as the project evolves,
helping to manage the region's water resources effectively and ensuring that future development
can proceed smoothly. The license approval comes at a time when the CVRD has been facing
challenges related to water availability in the southern part of the region, making reliable water
sources essential for future development. The CVRD has recently emphasized the need for
secure water allocations to support larger-scale housing projects.
"We are grateful for the years of collaboration between Elk Ridge Estates, CVRD, and other
local stakeholders to make this project possible," added Salmon. "This infrastructure
development is an important step toward meeting the growing housing demands in our region,
and we are proud to be leading the way in creating sustainable communities."
As the only private real estate developer currently active in the Paldi/Elk Ridge service area with
an approved Development Permit, Elk Ridge Estates Ltd. is dedicated to delivering a balanced

mix of affordable, environmentally friendly homes that will enhance community well-being. The
company remains focused on achieving net-zero sustainability goals while providing homes that
meet the needs of the community. Pre-sales for lots began in the first quarter of 2024.
For further information, please contact:
Sales - Bob Scragg @604.290.2906
Elk Ridge Estates Ltd.
Creating Sustainable Communities for the Future

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