PRRD delays Boundary Lake Water Station reopening again

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Boundary Lake Water Station’s reopening has been delayed again on the day it was scheduled to start running after the water treatment equipment failed tests. 

The station first closed indefinitely more than 10 months ago, on August 12th, 2024 after an inspection revealed water quality concerns.

A chemical had leaked from an unauthorized truck that tried to take water from a connection point at the facility without permission, causing an equipment outage that stopped the water flow.

The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) originally projected the station to reopen on June  30th, but an update at about 3 p.m. today informed the public it has been delayed.

“Over the past several days, the PRRD team, including operators, plumbers, electricians and engineers, have been on site at the Boundary Lake Water Station, testing the newly installed treatment system to ensure it operates as intended,” said the PRRD update.  

“Unfortunately, it has been determined that the equipment is not yet ready to treat water as additional components are required to stabilize the water pressure coming into the station.”

The PRRD said the reopening will resume after the additional replacement parts have arrived. 

“As soon as the new parts are installed, water samples will be collected and submitted to Northern Health,” said the update. 

“The station can only reopen after receiving passing sample results and formal approval from Northern Health.”

The district said it is unsure when the replacement parts will arrive, but will provide further updates as more information becomes available. 

“We acknowledge that this delay is an inconvenience and are working towards opening the station as soon as possible,” the PRRD concluded. 

Stay informed on updates from the PRRD on its website.