Regarding the new wastewater treatment plant being built in Townsite. From what I understand, this plant will only be equipped with secondary treatment [“Delegation urges pursuit of tertiary treatment for wastewater at City of Powell River meeting,” December 17]. My question is: Why isn’t it going to be equipped with tertiary treatment?
From Victoria and Sechelt to Kelowna, all the major new wastewater treatment plants are using tertiary treatment and it has become the industry standard. Tertiary water treatment is the final stage of the wastewater cleaning process. It removes inorganic compounds, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Removing these harmful substances makes the treated water safe to reuse, recycle or release into the environment.
Without this stage, the plant poses greater risks to our marine life and the local environment. But isn’t our city’s vision to be environmentally conscious and accountable?
I truly believe it is in everyone’s best interest to do it right the first time and make the plant as clean and environmentally sound as possible. If anyone has any answers or insights about this issue, I would love to hear them.
Patti McGhee, Larch Avenue
Powell River
