The City of Fernie and Elk Valley Resources will advance an options analysis to ensure sustainable drinking water for the community.
Back in 2022, testing found that the selenium content in the James White Wells exceeded the B.C. source drinking water quality guidelines.
Further tests found selenium levels are under the provincial standard of 10 micrograms per liter, but remain close to that threshold.
The city’s main water source is Fairy Creek, but if they have to switch over to the James White Wells and selenium levels exceed the limit the water source would be unavailable.
The city and Elk Valley Resources are now moving forward with the options analysis to find potential alternative water sources.
Elk Valley Resources will pay for the options analysis while the city has control over the process.
“This agreement formalizes funding to the tune of $600,000 to fund the options analysis. Both parties believe the funding envelope will be sufficient to complete the work,” said CAO Michael Boronowski.
“Control of the work and decisions on awarding contracts will remain firmly in control of the City of Fernie, which was absolutely critical from our point of view.”
City staff said Elk Valley Resources hasn’t formally committed to funding the implementation of the recommendations, but discussions have been positive.
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