Missezula Lake Water System Upgrade Investigation

The Missezula Lake Water System (MLWS) is a small water system located 45 kilometres north of Princeton, BC. The system provides drinking water to approximately 190 residential/seasonal lots.

The MLWS was built in 1972 by Arvec Construction, which originally drew source water from Dillard Creek. A chlorination building and a chlorine contact main were also present in the Dillard Creek area to provide a single barrier of treatment and a chlorine residual throughout the distribution system.

In 2002 an upgrade project was carried out, which replaced the creek intake with a raw water intake in Missezula Lake. This upgrade project also included the construction of the chlorination building, chlorine contact chamber, high lift pump station, and emergency power supply generator building.

In July 2022, a geotechnical investigation and exploratory drilling program to gain an understanding of the water table and general geotechnical conditions in the area took place. The investigation discovered a groundwater source, which had the potential to provide the water system with more reliable and easily treatable water.

Unfortunately, the test well that was drilled did not yield the results that were anticipated. As such, another well needed to be drilled to better understand whether groundwater can be a reliable source of fresh water for the community.

The RDOS has contracted Associated Environmental Consultants to assist in the detailed assessment of a Missezula Lake water source. Drilling occurred the last few weeks in September 2023, and water testing commenced after that. The well pumping test occurred the week of October 10, 2023, and water quality results are pending.

Completion of the water quality assessment and identification of water source treatment options is scheduled for late 2023/early 2024.

Once options are identified and reviewed, a community engagement event will be planned to occur in Q1/Q2 of 2024.