Fernie Fined for Millions of Liters of Untreated Sewage Spill

The City of Fernie has incurred a $13,395 administrative penalty from the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks due to violations concerning its wastewater treatment system. These violations led to the discharge of millions of litres of untreated wastewater into the Elk River. Between December 6 and 18, 2023, approximately 91.5 million litres of untreated sewage and stormwater were released from multiple lift stations and a boat launch. The ministry's investigation noted that monitoring revealed elevated fecal coliform and E. coli concentrations, posing a real or potential risk to aquatic life, livestock, and recreational users. Fernie officials acknowledged that its aging wastewater collection system is frequently overwhelmed by stormwater, groundwater infiltration, and illegal connections, particularly during heavy rainfall and snowmelt events. The city contends that its permit, originally from 1994, does not align with modern treatment standards. Despite completing upgrades in 2015, they were not formally incorporated into the permit. Fernie has invested approximately $1 million over the past three years in system improvements and is working towards registration under the B.C. Municipal Wastewater Regulation. Full compliance is targeted by 2030.