Emergency Update: Wastewater System Over Capacity

December 11, 2025 at 3:00 P.M.

The third discharge location setup earlier this afternoon at Eckersley St. was not effective and is no longer being used. We have reverted back to discharging at two locations (Dogwood Park, and our main pump station) to relieve pressure on the wastewater system and prevent long-term damage. Access to Dogwood Park (trails and road) is closed to the public.

December 11, 2025 at 1:30 P.M.

Intense rainfall and rapid snowmelt have overwhelmed the City of Fernie’s wastewater system, pushing it beyond capacity and affecting normal operations.

City crews are continuing to work around the clock to protect critical components and prevent a catastrophic system failure, including potential backups into homes and businesses. To reduce pressure on the system, we are asking all residents and businesses to immediately conserve water—please limit laundry, dishwashing, showers, and all non-essential water use.

Effluent Discharge to River

Due to system overload, untreated wastewater has been released to the river at three locations since early this morning. This was necessary to protect infrastructure damage which inhibits our ability to treat wastewater on a longer timeframe and prevent backups. The initial discharge did not relieve enough pressure, requiring a second discharge point to be opened at Dogwood Park this morning, followed by a third this afternoon at Eckersley Street, where flows are moving directly downriver.

Vac trucks are being used to support the system and are transporting effluent from Riverside Lift Station to Dogwood Park. The road and trail access to this temporary release point is closed to the public.

We are coordinating closely with Provincial Ministries, including the Environmental Emergency Response branch of the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, and spill reporting is being initiated. Staffing and operational adjustments are underway to ensure continuous monitoring and response.

Inflow and infiltration entering the system remains extremely high— more than five times yesterday’s volume, with no relief expected at this time due to continued alpine snow melt caused by high temperatures.

Flooding and Road Impacts

In addition to wastewater system pressures, severe rainfall has caused road washouts and damage in several areas, along with localized flooding that is impacting some homes. Crews are responding and assessing impacts as conditions evolve.

If you are concerned about localized flooding, you can access the City’s self-fill sandbag station next to the City’s Operations yard on Railway Ave. Residents are asked to bring their own shovel, vehicle to transport the sandbags, and appropriate protective equipment including sturdy boots, gloves, and eye protection. 

What Residents Can Do Right Now

• Conserve water immediately—every reduction helps stabilize the system.
• Avoid the river and stay clear of crews, equipment, and work zones.
• Use extreme caution near affected roadways and avoid flooded or damaged routes.

Follow City channels for official updates as new information becomes available.

 Initial Update: December 11, 2025 at 8:30 A.M.