Notice of Emergency Effluent Discharge to Elk River

To prevent damage to critical infrastructure after Fernie’s recent storm event, the city has activated an emergency discharge of effluent, due to inflow and infiltration. 

As of Monday, November 15, 2021, flows are bypassing the main sewerage pumping station and discharging to the Elk River. 

As of Tuesday, November 16, 2021, a portion of partially treated effluent is also being discharged from the lagoon facilities 7 km south of town.

The Ministry of Environment has been notified, with all permitting and sampling requirements being followed.

We are forecasting to resume a temporary discharge of treated efflunet to the Elk River within the next 24 - 48 hours.

For further information read our FAQs on the Water & Sewer info page.