‘Unseasonably high system flows’ disrupt Charlie Lake sewer system

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Charlie Lake sewer system is being disrupted by “increased inflows” of water. 

Just before 7 p.m. on April 20th, the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) issued a service advisory for elevated system flows and pressure conditions in Charlie Lake. 

“We are currently experiencing unseasonably high system flows due to increased inflows across the network from spring conditions,” the PRRD stated. 

The regional district explained that pressure in the sewer mainline is elevated due to this.

As a result, homeowners in the area are being encouraged to “take proactive steps to help protect their private infrastructure” while these conditions are ongoing. 

These include:

• Ensuring sewer holding tanks are inspected and pumped out as needed
• Verifying sump and sewer pumps are functioning properly and capable of handling increased demand
• Monitoring systems for any signs of backup or reduced performance 

“Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of service disruptions or property impacts while flows remain elevated,” the alert explained. 

The PRRD stated it would “continue to monitor conditions closely,” and provide updates “as necessary.” 

Any residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the PRRD’s Environmental Services Department by calling 250-784-3200 or emailing environmental.services@prrd.bc.ca.

Energeticcity.ca will update this article as more information becomes available.