The City of Fernie has issued a public Effluent Discharge notice advising that it is discharging treated effluent into the Elk River in accordance with its Ministry of Environment operating permit as defined under the Environmental Management Act. The notice, posted at the bulletin board across from Canada Post, states that the discharge is required to manage excessive water volumes in the sanitary sewer collection system.
This marks another year in which the City has had to release treated wastewater to the Elk River, a step taken when the lagoon-based wastewater treatment plant exceeds capacity due to groundwater infiltration and high seasonal flows.
Fernie’s wastewater treatment system has long faced challenges managing inflow and infiltration — excess groundwater and stormwater entering the sanitary system through cracks, joints, and aging infrastructure. During wet seasons or rapid snowmelt, this inflow can overwhelm the lagoons, forcing the City to discharge treated effluent to maintain safe operating levels.
While the discharged water is treated and monitored under provincial permits, the continued need for these releases underscores the urgency of upgrading Fernie’s wastewater infrastructure.
City reports in recent years have identified several needed improvements, including:
• Replacing deteriorating sewer mains and manholes to reduce groundwater inflow.
• Expanding lagoon capacity to handle peak seasonal flows.
• Upgrading monitoring and control systems for improved treatment efficiency.
As Fernie continues to grow, the demands on its wastewater system are expected to increase. Without significant investment, the City may face more frequent discharges — and increased risk to the Elk River, a critical ecosystem and cornerstone of local recreation.
The Government of Canada’s 2024–2025 Environment and Climate Change Departmental Plan outlines several funding streams designed to help municipalities improve water and wastewater systems. Through initiatives that support climate-resilient infrastructure, freshwater protection, and greenhouse gas reduction, Fernie may be eligible to seek federal assistance for system upgrades. These programs prioritize projects that protect watersheds, reduce environmental risk, and adapt to climate-driven pressures—aligning directly with the challenges facing Fernie’s lagoon system.
Effluent discharges are permitted by the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy and must meet water-quality standards for release. However, the City’s decision to post the 2025 notice only at the Canada Post bulletin board has limited public awareness of the ongoing issue.
Clear and accessible communication about environmental releases helps maintain community trust and encourages support for long-term infrastructure upgrades.
Modernizing Fernie’s wastewater system will require multi-level government funding and strategic planning. Investing now in upgrades will not only protect the Elk River but also strengthen Fernie’s capacity to manage growth, climate variability, and environmental stewardship.
Residents seeking more information can contact City Hall at 250-423-6817.
