Fernie wastewater system over capacity

Residents are being urged to be mindful of crews and to avoid the river, as heavy rains and snowmelt have sent Fernie’s wastewater treatment over capacity.

In a release issued Thursday, December 11, the City states that recent weather events have caused the system to malfunction. 

“Crews are making every effort to protect critical components of the system from catastrophic failure and prevent backup of the system into homes and businesses,” wrote the City. “We are asking all residents and businesses to conserve water to help reduce pressure on the system.”

Wastewater is being discharged to the Elk River at two locations at the time of writing.

The City has since reached out to B.C. ministries on the response and additional support. 

More updates will be added as they become available.