City Advances Water Security Project with Renewed Engagement and Strategic Planning

Dawson Creek, BC — The City of Dawson Creek continues to move forward with the Dawson Creek Water Supply System Project, a long-term plan to secure a reliable water source for the community.

The proposed project would bring water from the Peace River to Dawson Creek through a 52-kilometre transmission line, along with a water intake and pumping infrastructure. The goal is to provide a stable water supply for residents, businesses, agriculture, and emergency services.

Listening to Early Feedback

Last fall, the City invited feedback through the BC Environmental Assessment Office’s Early Engagement process. Indigenous communities, residents, agencies, and technical experts were asked to review the project’s Initial Project Description and provide input.

The City recognizes that some of the feedback highlighted concerns about the project approach, including the need for clearer communication, stronger relationships with Indigenous communities, and more transparency about project impacts and benefits.

This feedback is appreciated and is an important part of the environmental assessment process. It will be considered and incorporated by the City as the project continues to evolve.

What the City Is Doing Next

In response to the feedback, the City is taking several steps:

• Strengthening the project team to support technical planning and engagement
• Improving communications and public engagement to ensure clearer information and more opportunities for input
• Working with provincial and federal partners to explore funding options for the project
• Renewing engagement with Indigenous communities to support meaningful dialogue and incorporate Indigenous knowledge into project planning

Project Status

The project remains in the Early Engagement phase with the BC Environmental Assessment Office while the City works on writing a Detailed Project Description.

During this time, the City will continue working with Indigenous communities, residents, landowners, and regulatory agencies to refine the project approach and address concerns raised during early engagement. An update regarding next steps in this project will be coming soon.

Why This Project Matters

Recent drought conditions and low water levels in the Kiskatinaw River have highlighted the need for a more secure water supply for the region.

The Dawson Creek Water Supply System Project aims to strengthen long-term water security for Dawson Creek, Pouce Coupe, and surrounding areas while reducing pressure on the Kiskatinaw watershed.

Residents can follow project updates at dawsoncreek.ca/water-supply.

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Media Contact:
Communications Department
communications@dawsoncreek.ca