Raw Water Reservoir Feasibility Study

The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) is exploring new water sources to ensure a safe and reliable water supply in the long-term to respond to regional growth, climate change and community demand. One of these potential sources is a raw water reservoir.

Background

In 2018, the SCRD began looking at the feasibility of new surface and groundwater sources, including a potential raw water reservoir. These new potential sources could include a raw water reservoir, and/or new surface or groundwater sources that the SCRD has not yet identified.

These big projects take time to assess, design and build and would most likely result in tax increases for our community. Before moving forward, the SCRD needs to know if these long-term source and storage options are feasible, how much it could cost, secure land, obtain required permits, and ensure a potential site is safe and sustainable.

Project Process

The SCRD is currently looking at “Site B”, located above the Airport in Sechelt. Staff are currently working to understand if Site B is feasible, can meet all regulatory requirements, and if it were to proceed, what the estimated costs of construction and operation would be. Staff will then work to compare this option to other long-term surface water and groundwater options that are also being reviewed. Once determined, SCRD staff will present to the board the most cost-effective and feasible options that meet water supply needs for the coming decades.

Map of the Sunshine Coast Regional District with Site B marked in blue.

Next Steps

Work is underway in Spring 2023 that includes geotechnical drilling to determine the potential for this area to be used as a reservoir.