Canada city works to fast-track $100 million water pipeline amid years-long drought

The City of Dawson Creek, British Columbia, is actively pursuing a plan to expedite the development of a water pipeline, estimated to cost around $100 million, due to an ongoing and severe drought that threatens the city's primary drinking water source. 

The Kiskatinaw River, which supplies water to approximately 15,000 residents in northeastern British Columbia, has reached historically low levels and may soon fall short of the city's daily water requirements, according to CBC Canada.

Mayor Darcy Dober has stated that the city is requesting provincial assistance in identifying an alternative water supply and is seeking an exemption from a comprehensive environmental assessment for the pipeline connection. This exemption could reduce the approval timeline from five years to two. However, Dober has emphasized that the city cannot delay the project if the current conditions continue to worsen.

Currently, Dawson Creek and the Kiskatinaw watershed are experiencing Level 3 drought conditions.

The pipeline project is viewed as the most effective solution at this time.

Prior studies have deemed local groundwater aquifers unsuitable for drinking purposes, leading the city to consider a pipeline connecting to the Peace River, located about 55 km away, as the optimal long-term option.

Current discussions regarding the pipeline routes are still ongoing, with the Peace River emerging as a promising and sustainable option, according to officials.

To successfully implement this project, Dawson Creek will require financial assistance from higher levels of government, as well as collaboration with industry and Indigenous communities.

 

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