The Pemberton Music Festival released the following statement today in response to reports questioning the availability of camping spots and water on the site for the concert event, which kicked off today:

"There is no truth to the rumour that festival camping is oversold or that water has run out on site. The festival still has regular camping space available for patrons who have not yet arrived, and overflow camping areas have not yet been opened. Not only is there adequate water on site, as per our government-approved plan, we offer water free of charge through refill stations in the campgrounds and festival grounds.

"Provincial and local government officials have confirmed Pemberton Music Festival’s status regarding safety, water supply and camping space on site.

"'The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District has been directly involved with the development of the festival’s site safety, public safety and security plans,' says SLRD Board Chair Jack Crompton. 'The festival operating plan was developed with collaborative input from our safety and emergency response professionals. We have approved the festival operating plan and now that it's in production, we view the festival as a safe and well-run event.'

 "With regard to camping space, Crompton adds, 'We understand there is adequate camping supply at the festival and that several overflow camping areas within the festival’s campgrounds remain unopened at this time.'

"The Village of Pemberton would like to assure the public that there is more than sufficient water for residents and festivalgoers alike.

“'Maintaining adequate water flows for consumption and personal use, as well as site maintenance and fire flows was a condition of the Special Events Permit that was issued to the festival organizer by the Village of Pemberton,' says Nikki Gilmore, Village of Pemberton Chief Administrative Officer. 'It was also a requirement of other authorities, notably Vancouver Coastal Health. Regular monitoring at the festival site from Village of Pemberton and VCH personnel confirms that water supply and quality are sound.'"