City of Castlegar Looking for Input on Liquid Waste Management
The City of Castlegar is looking for input as it develops a Liquid Waste Management Plan (LWMP) to guide the management of wastewater and stormwater infrastructure for the next 20 years.
The LWMP addresses critical challenges such as aging infrastructure, environmental protection, and sustainable growth. The plan is a formal document approved by the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks. It outlines how liquid waste—from household wastewater to stormwater runoff—is collected, treated, and returned to the environment in compliance with regulations and community needs. The final plan will outline strategies to improve wastewater and stormwater systems, protect the Columbia River ecosystem, and create resilient infrastructure for the future.
“In the Kootenays and across British Columbia, municipalities are facing substantial costs as they implement liquid waste management plans to address aging infrastructure and growing environmental standards,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin. “Recognizing that decisions made in the Liquid Waste Management Plan will have long-term cost implications to taxpayers, we’re starting conversations with the community early so we know what’s important to our residents.”
The City’s LWMP will identify best practices and possible solutions for:
- Aging Infrastructure: The City’s sewer and stormwater systems are decades old, and many components are nearing the end of their useful life. Replacing and upgrading these systems is critical to maintain reliable service and avoid costly failures.
- Odour and Capacity Issues: The South Sewage Treatment Plant frequently receives complaints about odours and operates near its capacity limits. The North Sewage Treatment Plant faces equipment challenges affecting treated water quality. Addressing these issues is essential for community enjoyment and compliance with environmental regulations.
- Environmental Protection: Wastewater is treated and returned to the Columbia River, which supports fish habitat and recreational activities. Improving treatment processes and effectively managing stormwater is vital to safeguarding this natural resource.
- Growth and Long-term Planning: With Castlegar’s population and economy growing, the City’s infrastructure must keep pace. The LWMP will provide a roadmap for accommodating increased demand while managing utility rates and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The LWMP is anticipated to take approximately two years and includes three stages:
- Stage 1: Identify challenges and potential solutions (current stage).
- Stage 2: Evaluate options and select the best solution.
- Stage 3: Finalize and implement the chosen plan.
Stage 1 – Identify Challenges and Potential Solutions
In this stage, the City is gathering input from the community, Indigenous groups, Advisory and Steering Committees, and professional guidance from engineering consultants hired by the City to ensure the plan reflects local priorities while balancing environmental protection, sustainable infrastructure investments, and cost-effectiveness.
Learn More & Have Your Say
Residents are invited to learn more and provide feedback in a variety of ways.
Join us at an Open House
Open House #1 Open House #2
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Selkirk Room – Community Complex Community Forum (in CBT Building)
2101 6th Avenue 445 13 Avenue
Drop-In between 4 – 7 p.m. Drop-In between 4 – 7 p.m.
These sessions will offer an overview of the process, including current challenges and solution options studied to date. Attendees can review information boards, speak directly with the project team, and share feedback. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Take the Survey
Take just a few minutes to complete a survey at castlegar.ca/lwmp. The survey closes on March 2, 2025.
Learn More
Visit castlegar.ca/lwmp to learn more and stay informed.
Communications