Project Overview

The Cariboo Regional District is exploring long-term solutions to improve water quality in the Bouchie Lake watershed. One option under review is the development of a community sewer system to help reduce nutrient inflow from aging or failing septic systems around the lake.

Current Status

Public engagement for this project is now complete. Survey results were presented to the Board on May 24, 2024, and are available online. Based on community feedback, the Board approved $50,000 from the Rural Feasibility Study Fund to proceed with a sewer system feasibility study beginning in 2025.

The feasibility study has now been completed and presented to the Board, and a detailed report from the CRD Utilities Manager will be brought forward on November 14, 2025.

Background

This project explores long-term solutions to protect the health of the Bouchie Lake watershed. Community input highlighted ongoing concerns about water quality and the potential benefits of a shared sewer system for surrounding properties.

The feasibility study provides an overview of potential system options, estimated costs, and funding implications. It also outlines next steps if the project moves forward. Establishing a new sewer service would require several additional actions, including:

• Amending the Official Community Plan to include a sewer system plan and related land use policies

• Preparing engineering designs and technical drawings for the collection and treatment system

• Consulting with First Nations and relevant provincial agencies

• Confirming financing, including potential local taxation, borrowing, and grant opportunities

• Conducting a referendum on service establishment and any associated borrowing

Public Engagement

Public engagement took place between April 15 and May 15, 2024. Residents were invited to complete an input survey and attend a public information meeting held on April 30, 2024, at the Bouchie Lake Community Hall. More than 60 residents attended the meeting, and a total of 83 surveys were submitted, including 26 completed during the event.