District of Tofino Opens First WWTP
Playing the EDI Long Game: Recruiting and Retaining Women Professionals
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We continue to experience growth in all our offices across Canada. We have immediate openings for the following positions:
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THE CANADA VALVE HYDRANT IS JOINING THE GRIP WORLD
Introducing the Canada Valve Hydrant with Hymax Grip. This hydrant is more versatile and capable of joining a wide selection of pipe types and diameters, resulting in easier, more flexible installations.
Ready to learn more? For more information contact us at 1-800-423-1323 or visit us online at muellercompany.com
Sarah Pratt
of Communication, Outreach and Engagement
Watermark inquiries should be sent to: spratt@bcwwa.org
Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the BCWWA.
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StormTech chambers, designed for a minimum 75-year service life, are certified to CSA B184, accepted for detention systems under MMCD and recognized by BC MoTI and ETV. StormTech chambers are verified to capture 80% total suspended solids (TSS) and to be easily flushed during routine maintenance.
NEGIN TOUSI BCWWA President
NEW HORIZONS: NAVIGATING INTERSECTIONAL CHALLENGES IN OUR INDUSTRY
As we near 2025, British Columbia and Yukon stand at the confluence of intersecting challenges, with water, wastewater and stormwater systems at the heart of issues ranging from housing and climate resilience, to food security and economic growth. These challenges are not isolated; they overlap and influence one another, requiring a nuanced, collaborative approach to ensure sustainable outcomes. Take, for instance, the push to address housing affordability in BC through legislation like Bills 44, 46 and 47. While these measures aim to streamline development and tackle the housing crisis, they bring a ripple effect. Municipalities have expressed concerns that the new policies don’t fully address the spectrum of infrastructure needs and costs required to support such rapid growth. Water, wastewater and stormwater systems already under strain in many communities must scale to meet increased demand. Yet, the pace of development often outstrips the capacity to plan and fund these vital upgrades.
Meanwhile, BC and Yukon’s economic pillars – industry and tourism – present a dual opportunity and responsibility. In Yukon, mining plays a vital role in supporting local economies and communities, providing jobs and driving regional development. At the same time, it underscores the importance of keeping water use efficient and protecting natural ecosystems. Practices such as closedloop water systems and advanced treatment technologies highlight the sector’s potential to integrate sustainability into operations. Tourism, another significant driver of both regions’ economies, similarly benefits from careful resource management. Organizations like Destination BC, while promoting and supporting the tourism industry, are mindful of its impact on water resources and systems. By bringing this critical topic to the forefront, they are taking proactive steps to encourage thoughtful water management, including
NAVIGATING THESE INTERSECTIONS ALSO REQUIRES PROACTIVE ENGAGEMENT – ADVOCATING WITH LAWMAKERS, INDUSTRY LEADERS AND COMMUNITY
STAKEHOLDERS TO ALIGN POLICIES AND PRACTICES AND BRING THE RIGHT VOICES TO THE TABLE.
offering tools like the Water Conservation Tourism Industry Toolkit to help businesses and the industry make more sustainable, water-conscious decisions.
Agriculture in the Okanagan offers another lens on intersectionality, where food production and water conservation must go hand in hand. As a hub for cherries, apples, grapes and other crops, the region is essential to BC’s food security. However, irrigation needs can place pressure on local water resources, particularly during drought seasons. Farmers are adopting advanced irrigation technologies and planting droughtresistant crops to support sustainable water use while maintaining productivity. These efforts align with the broader understanding that agriculture is not separate from the water cycle but a critical part of it, illustrating the importance of integrated approaches to managing shared resources.
BCWWA’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan embraces this intersectional perspective, applying a ‘One Water’ lens to foster holistic solutions. Whether addressing municipal growth, industrial practices, or agricultural sustainability, the plan emphasizes the interconnected nature of water systems and the need for collaboration across sectors. Navigating these intersections also requires proactive engagement – advocating with lawmakers, industry leaders and community stakeholders to align policies and practices and bring the right voices to the table.
As we move forward, our industry must embrace complexity and prioritize integrated solutions that balance growth, equity and environmental stewardship. These challenges demand not only technical innovation but also an ongoing commitment to dialogue and cooperation. By working together, BC and Yukon can ensure a resilient, sustainable water future that serves both people and ecosystems.
LEE COONFER
BCWWA CEO
A RISING TIDE LIFTS ALL BOATS
“A rising tide lifts all boats.” That sums up the fundamental value of an association. At its foundation, a good association will, in my experience, create a community within a sector while establishing lines of information sharing amongst the group.
Perhaps the analogy is overly simplistic, but it remains highly relevant. To me, this signals that there are several ways that the BCWWA can work on behalf of all its BC and Yukon members to better position the sector to collectively thrive. This can be done by widening the aperture of the Association’s focus to consider
point for the BCWWA. It will be our priority to maintain and improve the foundational programs and services of the Association that our members benefit from while starting to identify the legislative concerns that require a water sector’s voice and perspective. It ensures we have good public policy regulating our community development, asset management and climate change priorities while establishing outreach and engagement targets to include the broader community within our Advocacy endeavors.
There is an opportunity for the BCWWA to
On the latter point, it was extremely valuable for BCWWA to have the Yukon Territory’s Minister Richard Mostyn present as keynote at our Yukon Workshop & Trade Show this past October. Hearing from senior cabinet ministers truly helps us better understand what legislative, investment and political priorities are of top of mind so that we, the BCWWA, may engage where appropriate and further our members’ priorities.
We will have a similar opportunity in BC in the next few months as Premier Eby names his Cabinet and establishes the
Save
Canadian Waste and Wastewater Association
November 2 - 5, 2025
Victoria Convention Centre Victoria, BC
www.cwwa.ca
TED MOLYNEUX CWWA Director
NEW VANTAGE POINTS
With every conference, my first thought is: “what has changed?” followed by “what will I learn?” Well, perhaps that’s a lie: the first is usually “where are we meeting for dinner,” but more on that later. Going into any meeting or conference with these open questions drives an internal need to build upon learning – or at least according to a psychological theory I once read.
In attending this year’s CWWA’s National Water & Wastewater Conference in Winnipeg, MB, we learned about the new federal Canada Water Agency headquartered in Winnipeg. Their mandate is:
“To improve freshwater management in Canada by providing leadership, effective collaboration federally, and improved coordination and collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous Peoples to proactively address national and regional transboundary freshwater challenges and opportunities.”
I BELIEVE WITH THE RIGHT MANDATE, REGULATIONS AND FUNDING, THE AGENCY STANDS TO GREAT AND RELEVANT WORK.
Many of my colleagues advocated for this Agency, and in light of climate change impacts, its timing is better late than never. As a civil servant, I believe with the right mandate, regulations and funding, the Agency stands to great and relevant work. I also look forward to seeing how its work will dovetail with the BC Watershed Security Strategy.
During the Winnipeg NWWC, I learned about residential water meters with built-in echo location leak detection and how AI enhances water leak detection and conservation. This was certainly timely, given recent provincial
metering pilots and how one of the First Nations communities I work with is facing water leakage and conservation challenges. I hope for a BCWWA conference presentation linking the above and highlighting the impacts of enhanced metering.
Now, back to the dinner quest. In general, at these conferences, we enjoy seeing good friends and acquaintances we sometimes only see at these events, and there is the joy of meeting new people. These experiences bring meaningful changes and show us new horizons for safe water provision and environmental protection.
MIKE GOSSELIN WEF Delegate
ALIGNING OUR FUTURE GOALS
BCWWA is in a transformative phase, focusing on its historical roots and future direction. Re-evaluating past initiatives can provide valuable insights into what has worked well and what can be improved, especially in areas like water management and sustainability. BCWWA has a strong and competent leadership that, coupled with a dynamic and engaged membership, will continue to allow BCWWA to make informed decisions, provide leadership and spearhead innovation within the water sector.
Aligning future goals with community engagement is crucial, as water issues often impact local populations directly. By involving communities, membership and professionals in decision-making, the BCWWA can foster a greater sense of stewardship and ensure that initiatives are tailored to meet the specific needs of different regions. BCWWA is poised for an exciting and impactful future! Emphasis on transformative change, community engagement and a strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion reflects a holistic approach to addressing water management challenges.
As BCWWA’s WEF delegate, I attended WEFTEC 2024 this September in New Orleans, Louisiana, with over 21,000 other industry professionals. This year was my first attendance as a WEF delegate, which allowed me the opportunity to work closely with and take part in WEF House of Delegates (HOD) workshops and sessions. These sessions were jam-packed with information and networking opportunities to provide ample opportunity for all delegates to share information directly with the Water Environment
ALIGNING FUTURE GOALS WITH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IS CRUCIAL, AS WATER ISSUES OFTEN IMPACT LOCAL POPULATIONS DIRECTLY.
Federation (WEF). The BCWWA is also a member of the Canadian Affairs Committee, which met during WEFTEC, providing an opportunity for all Canadian delegates to come together in person to share information, give updates ongoing projects (such as DEI) and discuss possible legislative issues (specifically so-called disposable wipes) currently being addressed by CWWA. The 2025 horizon is an exciting time for the BCWWA and its membership. Together, we will enact parts of the Strategic Plan, expand community and membership engagement and develop and deliver industry training. This is a time to expand and enhance current partnerships while exploring new partnerships with a commitment to continue working towards realizing a vision that people have a safe and healthy water environment. These efforts will undoubtedly strengthen the water sector’s capacity and help build a competent and sustainable workforce that can meet current and future demands.
DEIRDRE MORAN
AWWA Director
MOVING TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The end of the year is a cause for reflection on the events and accomplishments of the past 12 months while also prompting us to look forward and plan for the future.
2024 has been a busy year for both the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the BCWWA, with new strategic plans for both organizations coming online. Both strategic plans are forward-looking and embrace the concept of a sustainable ‘One Water Future.’ This same future is envisioned by AWWA’s Water 2050 initiative, which looks even further over the horizon to long-term sector sustainability and success. At this year’s BCWWA Conference & Trade Show in Whistler, BC, AWWA President Cheryl Porter shared the highlights of this initiative with AWWA BC Section members.
The Water 2050 vision was shaped by both industry and non-industry stakeholder voices – young professionals (YP) from across AWWA’s organization were a vital part of that discussion.
It’s no secret that young professionals are the future of the water industry; AWWA has acknowledged this and has made great efforts to grow and strengthen YP involvement within the organization. Not only will the YP Advisor Program to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors be continued, but there is also a new YP director-at-large position on the AWWA Board of Directors, the first successful candidate in this role will take office in June 2025 after ACE. This year also marks the fifth year of AWWA’s ‘Top 5 Under 35’ Award to recognize Outstanding Young Professionals. Nominations for the award closed October 1, 2024.
BCWWA has directly supported YP involvement and growth in 2024 by sponsoring a young professional (YP), Ali Malekian to attend the WEF/AWWA YP Summit in Portland, OR. This was a great opportunity that will be continued in 2025 with another award for a BCWWA YP to attend the 2025 Summit taking place February 9–11 in Dallas, TX.
Other events to watch for on the 2025 horizon include:
• The AWWA WEF Utility Management Conference Feb. 11–14 in Dallas, TX
• Membrane Technology Conference & Exposition Feb. 24–27 In Long Beach, CA
And, of course, there is ACE in 2025, which will be held in AWWA’s home city of Denver, CO, from June 8–11. The theme for the 2025 conference is to elevate the future of water – emphasizing the importance of collaboration as the world evolves and as innovative solutions are required to continue to ensure clean and safe water for all.
Information on all upcoming events can be accessed on AWWA’s recently updated website (awwa.org). Earlier this fall, AWWA’s website update went live; this much improved the user experience of navigating the site and included an updated, easy-to-use online store. AWWA has also recently developed new Section logos to improve brand consistency and bring the colour palette into ADA compliance, so you’ll be seeing an updated BC Section logo in circulation soon.
There has been much change in the past year across AWWA and BCWWA – this reflects two dynamic organizations working to provide the best member experience while staying true to their missions. I’m looking forward to seeing these changes in action in 2025.
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Greatario and Balmoral Partnership STRENGTHENS CANADA’S Liquid Storage Infrastructure
Delivering Innovation for Canada’s Essential Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Industrial Infrastructure
The partnership between Greatario, Canada’s leading liquid storage solutions provider, and Balmoral, a global leader in tank manufacturing, is a vital alliance aimed at strengthening much of Canada’s essential infrastructure for drinking water, wastewater treatment, and industrial liquid storage solutions. Together, the two companies are shaping the future of critical storage systems, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of municipalities, industries and communities across the country.
“The towers and tanks we build are the backbone of much of Canada’s water and industrial systems,” said Drew Williamson, President of Greatario. “Partnering with Balmoral was a strategic decision that enables us to deliver world-class projects, from water storage towers to wastewater treatment facilities. We’re not just building tanks – we’re building solutions that protect communities, enhance sustainability, and ensure the resilience of vital infrastructure.”
Since the partnership began over one year ago, Greatario and Balmoral have partnered on 94 key tank projects that demonstrate the strength of their teamwork and their commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. Together, they have tackled some of the most challenging projects in the industry, providing reliable and efficient solutions that exceed client expectations.
Why This Partnership Matters
The towers and tanks built by Greatario are essential to ensuring access to fresh drinking water, supporting the growth and development of municipalities, Indigenous communities and industrial operations, as well as providing critical fire protection for communities and businesses
across Canada. This partnership was formed to bring together Greatario’s decades of experience in delivering hundreds of liquid storage solutions across Canada with Balmoral’s state-of-the-art tank technology and superior service. The result is a partnership that offers clients the best of both worlds – advanced tank technology combined with unparalleled building experience and expertise.
Key Unique Features of this Partnership: Unmatched Customer Service and Support
· From design to post-installation, Greatario’s fast, reliable service is complemented by Balmoral’s award-winning customer support. Together, they ensure seamless project execution and unmatched after-sales care, setting a new standard for customer satisfaction.
More Expansive Product Range for Diverse Applications
Balmoral’s comprehensive product range includes: steel tanks using coatings of glass, epoxy, galvanized steel and also bolted GRP (glass reinforced plastic). With extensive experience in industries such as renewable gas, biogas and municipal water and wastewater storage, Balmoral leads the way in delivering high-quality, versatile tanks to meet the unique needs of any sector.
Advanced Coating Technology:
· Balmoral’s leading-edge porcelain enamel is best-in-class, setting the global standard for glass-fused-to-steel coating technology. The glass coating process involves a ‘100% dry’ electrostatic application, ensuring optimal purity and increased coverage, providing superior corrosion resistance and longevity.
Superior Quality Control:
· Balmoral manufactures all tanks to the highest global ISO-28765 standard. The precision and consistency in their manufacturing process ensure exceptional reliability and longevity. One distinct feature is the use of colourcoded bolt heads, which not only aid in the correct assembly of the tanks but also offer an additional layer of quality assurance during construction.
Precision Straight Seam Design:
· Balmoral’s straight, vertical seams deliver a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance –no crooked lines or misaligned panels. Balmoral’s superior design offers enhanced sealing control and tightening at the seam, significantly reducing the potential for leaks. Additionally, the seamless alignment ensures that logos, signage and piping can perfectly match the tank’s vertical lines, making it an ideal choice for projects where precision, durability and visual appeal matter most.
“Greatario’s deep building expertise, spanning coast to coast across Canada, and their dedication to their clients made this partnership a perfect fit for Balmoral,” said Allan Joyce, Managing Director, Balmoral. “Together,
we are delivering outstanding results for our clients, and we look forward to continuing this successful collaboration.”
Recently Completed Projects:
1. Tofino Wastewater Treatment Plant, BC: A $78 million landmark project protecting the Pacific Ocean and the UNESCOdesignated Clayoquot Sound by preventing untreated sewage discharge. This facility is a major environmental achievement, supported by all three levels of government and local First Nations.
2. Generate Upcycle Digester and Biogas Plant, ON: The construction of additional tanks including a fourth digester has made this London-based facility the largest food waste anaerobic digestion plant in North America, capable of processing 182,000 metric tons of organic waste per year and producing 450,000 MMBtu of renewable natural gas.
3. Norwood Water Tower, ON: The construction of a vital municipal water tower supplying clean drinking water to the Township of Asphodel-Norwood. This iconic structure not only enhances the town’s skyline but ensures reliable access to
safe drinking water for the community. The project strengthens local infrastructure and supports the township’s growing needs.
With successful projects already completed and more in progress, the partnership between Greatario and Balmoral continues to push industry standards forward.
For more information about the Greatario and Balmoral partnership, www.greatario. com/partnership
About Greatario:
Greatario has been Canada’s trusted leader in liquid storage solutions for over 35 years. With over 800 tanks built across the country, Greatario is committed to delivering high-quality, innovative storage solutions for municipal and industrial applications.
About Balmoral:
Balmoral is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of liquid storage tanks. Known for their advanced tank technologies and commitment to quality, Balmoral delivers solutions to clients around the world.
Greatario is represented in Western Canada by MEQUIPCO. Visit www.mequipco.com for more information.
bcwwaconference.org
Victoria, BC | April 27 - 29, 2025
The BCWWA Annual Conference & Trade Show is BC’s premier water and wastewater event, featuring one of the largest trade shows of its kind in western Canada. This is an opportunity to network with BC and the Yukon’s water community, connect with industry suppliers and contacts, engage in education sessions, build skills and industry knowledge and so much more.
CALL FOR PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS & MODERATORS
Every year, we are fortunate to have such amazing speakers attend our conference. We are excited to bring together an Education Program on theme "One Water, One Future.”
Interested in submitting an abstract? Or moderating?
Visit bcwwaconference.org today to apply and be part of this engaging event.
CONFERENCE VEN E:
The Fairmont Empress 721 Government Street, Victoria, BC
Special hotel rates now available!
Plan ahead and book your stay at our conference hotel, the Fairmont Empress.
TRADE SHOW LOCATIONS:
Carson Hall, Victoria Conference Centre (VCC) 720 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC
Crystal Garden 713 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC
Rates: Rooms start at $279 per night + taxes and fees. Book by March 25, 2025.
BCWWA NEWS
BCWWA HEADS TO CWWA NATIONAL CONFERENCE
The BCWWA was thrilled to attend the National Water & Wastewater Conference in Winnipeg from November 3-6, 2024. Hosted by the Canadian Water & Wastewater Association, this national conference brings together hundreds of municipal water leaders to share their experiences and innovations and address the most pressing issues facing the industry. CEO Lee Coonfer, President Negin Tousi and BCWWA’s CWWA representative Ted Molyneux were on-site to represent BC and the Yukon’s water community. It was a ripe opportunity to connect with water and wastewater professionals from across Canada, hear updates about the water sector on a federal level and build working relationships with our national partners and federal departments and agencies.
CALL FOR BOARD DIRECTOR APPLICATIONS
Interested in taking a leadership role and representing the interests of all BCWWA members and stakeholders? The BCWWA Board Nominations Committee invites all active members to apply themselves or nominate a fellow member for one of the three Board Director positions that will become vacant at the 2025 Annual General Meeting on April 2, 2025. To apply, submit a Board Director application (available on our website at bcwwa.org/site/about/governance/applications) by January 10, 2025.
MURRAY SINCLAIR
The BCWWA would like to take this time to honour and pay respect to The Honorable Murray Sinclair. His passing in November 2024 is a profound loss for all of us. As a judge, senator and chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, he leaves an incredible legacy that will have a lasting impact on the relationship between Indigenous People and Canada. His leadership to help all of us acknowledge that Truth, even on the darkest days, must take place before the journey of Reconciliation can begin.
“We have described for you a mountain; we have shown you the path to the top. We call upon you to do the climbing.”- R.H. Murray Sinclair
Photo credit: Canada’s National History Society
BCWWA EVENTS CALENDAR
DATE
EVENT
January 16–17, 2025 Taking Care of Your Small Water System Virtual
February 9–11, 2025
February 11–13, 2025
February 11–14, 2025
February 24–27, 2025
WEF/AWWA Young Professionals Summit Dallas, TX
GLOBExCHANGE 2025 Toronto, ON
AWWA/WEF Utility Management Conference 2025 Dallas, TX
AWWA Membrane Technology Conference & Exposition Long Beach, CA
March 16–19, 2025 2025 WateReuse Symposium Tampa, FL
April 27–29, 2025
May 6–9, 2025
June 8–11, 2025
September 14–17, 2025
September 27 – October 1, 2025
October 7–9, 2025
November 18–19, 2025
BCWWA 2025 Annual Conference & Trade Show Victoria, BC
Residuals & Biosolids and Innovations in Treatment Technology Baltimore, MD
AWWA ACE25 Denver, CO
AWWA Water Infrastructure Conference & Exposition Orlando, FL
WEFTEC 2025 Chicago, IL
AWWA WaterSmart Innovations Reno, NV
SCADA & IT Conference & Trade Show New Westminster, BC
THE WATERLINE
The latest water industry news, brought to you by the BCWWA
SECOND NARROWS WATER SUPPLY TUNNEL RECEIVES CANADIAN PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Tunnelling Association of Canada’s Canadian Project of the Year Award is presented to a team that has significantly contributed to a project in Canada that has demonstrated the highest level of engineering skill and shown insight and understanding of underground construction. Completed construction works include: two vertical shafts (one on each side of the inlet), a 6.3-metre-diameter, 1.1-kilometre-long tunnel and three steel water mains. Valve chambers, which will connect the new mains to the existing drinking water system, are nearing completion. Construction began in 2019 and is expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2024. The three new water mains will be tied into the drinking water system over the next few winters and are expected to be in service by 2028.
Source: ReNew Canada, October 9, 2024.
Photo credit: Metro Vancouver
METRO VANCOUVER USES SONAR TO INSPECT 50 TONNES OF FATBERGS
As Metro Vancouver rolls out its 2024 Wipe It, Green Bin It campaign, local officials shared that crews removed 50 tonnes of fatbergs –chunks of hardened grease – over recent months from the city’s Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. The disposal of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) into the sewer system is an ongoing issue that contributes to sewer clogs and overflows that cost Metro Vancouver and member jurisdictions $2.7 million every year, according to a report presented to the Liquid Waste Committee on October 10, 2024.
Source: Environmental Science & Engineering, November 11, 2024. Photo credit: Metro Vancouver
CANADA STRENGTHENS PROTECTION OF FRESHWATER WITH LAUNCH OF STANDALONE CANADA WATER AGENCY
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, officially announced the establishment of the Canada Water Agency as a standalone federal entity headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Previously within Environment and Climate Change Canada for an interim period, the new independent Agency will strengthen freshwater management in Canada by providing leadership and improved coordination and collaboration federally and with provinces, territories, and Indigenous peoples. As a standalone entity, the Canada Water Agency will work closely with partners to deliver major elements of the Freshwater Action Plan, build a strong approach to freshwater protection, and help address transboundary freshwater challenges and opportunities.
Source: Water Canada, October 16, 2024
CONSTRUCTION STARTS THIS MONTH ON STANLEY PARK WATER SUPPLY TUNNEL PROJECT
Metro Vancouver is set to begin construction in mid-November on the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel. This major project will replace aging infrastructure to strengthen the region’s capacity for reliably delivering high-quality drinking water. A new 1.4-kilometre-long water supply tunnel will be constructed deep under Stanley Park to replace a water main that was built in the 1930s. Two new valve chambers will control the flow of water through mains in the area. Construction on the Stanley Park Water Supply Tunnel is expected to last through 2029.
Source: Water Canada, November 6, 2024
N DRINKING WATER
A YEAR IN REVIEW COMMITTEE
& COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE:
n the past year, the Drinking Water Committee (DWC) has continued to review and provide comments on proposed government policies, regulations and guidance. These notifications for future drinking water guideline changes and review are often completed by Health Canada in the form of Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines; however, regional and provincial guidelines are also subject to change for those respective jurisdictions. Though multiple notifications from Health Canada were reviewed this year by the DWC, only one of these updates amounted to a quantitative change to drinking water guidelines.
Revised Aesthetic Objective for Iron
In October of 2023, Health Canada released a revised aesthetic objective for iron substances in Canadian drinking water. Though there has been no new evidence concerning potential adverse health effects from iron in drinking water, Health Canada proposed an aesthetic objective of 0.1 mg/L, down from the previous objective of 0.3 mg/L, established in 1978. The rationale for the proposed change was justified by the discoloration of water with a higher concentration of iron oxides, minimizing oxide deposit buildup
in distribution systems, improving consumer confidence in drinking water quality and reducing potential public health risk in situations where certain contaminants are adsorbed and conveyed in water by iron constituents. The committee did not have any significant concerns with the proposed change and did not provide comment.
Review on Fluoride in Drinking Water
In January of 2024, Health Canada provided a preliminary notification that they had engaged an expert panel to study the health effects of fluoride in drinking water. The study was prompted by new scientific studies related to potential health effects related to fluoride exposure. Scientific evidence of dental fluorosis and potential negative effects to neurocognitive development in children as a result of high fluoride exposure were among the justifications for a health-based maximum fluoride concentration in drinking water to be established. Work by Health Canada is ongoing in this area, and the DWC anticipates that a proposed guideline will be put forward by Health Canada in the near future.
Update on Operational Parameters
Health Canada also sought to consolidate the guideline technical documents for seven common constituents in water: calcium, magnesium, hardness, chloride, sulfate, TDS and hydrogen sulfide. This update was released in March of 2024. The constituents in question were considered to fall under regular ‘operational parameters.’ As no quantitative changes to the guidelines for any of these constituents were proposed, the DWC did not prepare a response to the notification.
New objective for PFAS
Finally, the work to understand and mitigate the impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water is ongoing. After a review period in early 2023, Health Canada released a finalized drinking water objective in August of 2024. The new objective addresses 25 specific PFAS, instituting a combined maximum objective value of 30 ng/L. As the full toxicological effects of PFAS exposure are still being investigated, the guideline represents a conservative approach to limit as much as possible the public’s exposure to PFAS in
drinking water. The value has been established as a determined achievable concentration for detection and removal based on pilot and full-scale studies.
While the understanding of various PFAS and their effects continue to be studied, the DWC plans to establish an active working group to address this ongoing issue.
Outside of regulatory review, the DWC’s strategic planning session in September of 2023 identified an appetite among committee members to adjust how the committee operates to create more space for discussion and to be intentional about how committee activities support the overall organization’s mission and vision to optimize
efforts and minimize volunteer burnout. The committee also worked to formalize recruiting, onboarding and offboarding processes to increase transparency and accessibility and support succession on the committee.
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This year also saw significant growth in the Drinking Water Community of Practice, who held three meetings focused on current and upcoming topics affecting those in the drinking water community in a presentation Drinking Water: What’s Now . Presentations were focused on AWWA’s Water 2050 plan, the impact of green infrastructure on drinking water infrastructure and water system resiliency in the face of extreme climate events (held in late November 2024). The CoP continues to encourage new members to join the discussion and bring forward information and topics for the CoP to discuss.
The year ended with a leadership transition. Siobhan Robinson, who co-led the Drinking Water Committee with Jamie Austin, elected to the BCWWA Board and Shona Robinson, a longstanding BCWWA volunteer and past chair of the Conference Planning Committee, stepped into the co-lead role in her place.
If you are interested in providing your own knowledge and experience in future review processes, please reach out to the BCWWA Event & Member Engagement Coordinator, kpatrao@bcwwa.org and consider joining the Drinking Water Community
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District of Tofino Opens First WWTP –
“Surfing
in our Secondary Treated Effluent?”
Construction formally commenced late in 2022, and after a busy couple of years, Tofino’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is now operational. Diverting sewage from the various existing collection systems and sending it to the new plant dramatically improves water quality in the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s traditional shellfish harvesting areas and critical coastal habitats, aligning with the District of Tofino’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The new WWTP became operational in late August 2024 and is now performing in accordance with the District of Tofino’s new operational certificate.
Wastewater Treatment for the Community
The District of Tofino, WSP and NAC met in mid-project in early summer 2023 to perform a Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations and Results (SOAR) review and develop a mission statement for the project. “Working together to deliver a fit-for-purpose wastewater treatment system for the community, by collaboration and challenging each other to be at our best. We commit to creating a safe work environment with accountability and professionalism, to safely deliver a high-quality project on budget and on time.”
Why IFAS? – Peaks and Troughs
IFAS (Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge) may strike the reader as unusual for a greenfield WWTP, given its more regular application as extension of service life/capacity increaser at aged facilities. IFAS is viewed as an effective upgrade for WWTP’s approaching end of service life or where rapid population increases have occurred in established communities.
In Tofino, the District, WSP and NAC were able to critique the design, constructability and operational characteristics of this process
methodology, comparing it to 11 other process options. Contained in prefabricated glass-lined steel tanks, the simplicity of construction and overall functionality of IFAS stood out. Seasonal population growth, i.e., tourists, means Tofino’s sewage system experiences challenging peaks and troughs. Combined with a thorough equalization strategy, IFAS offers superior durability through these challenges.
Veolia’s IFAS technology was recommended after a detailed comparison with other processes.
Solids Removal – Front and Back
At the front end, the integrated headworks system (Huber) also manages the variability in pumped flows well. The mechanical screens and grit removal system have already dealt with peak flows during the atmospheric river event in mid-October. All screenings and grit are collected for disposal at the local landfill.
At the back end, the dewatering centrifuges (GEA) dewater return activated sludge (RAS) line. The concentration of the RAS varies with process conditions, but the centrifuges have been able to
consistently produce upwards of 24% total solids from as low as 0.35% total solids incoming waste activated sludge (WAS). The dewatering train operates daily in batch mode and the final cake bin is disposed of at the landfill.
District staff and the project team spent a significant amount of effort in the coordination of the total solids’ percentage production with the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) to ensure the bio-solids being sent to the landfill exceeded the minimum total solids requirement. The team is proud that the dewatering equipment could be commissioned and optimized to produce a higher percentage of total solid than specified by both the ACRD and the project specifications.
Connecting with the Existing? A Tie-in Strategy
Using seed waste activated sludge (WAS) from the Regional District of Nanaimo WWTP to start up and test the newly installed process equipment, the District, contractor and consultant developed a comprehensive tie-in
plan with thoughtful contingency. Tie-ins were performed in sequential blocks for seven geographical areas, either by redirecting sewage from existing lift stations to the new pump stations or through tie-ins to major sanitary services, thereby connecting to the newly installed sanitary force mains.
By communicating clearly with the community, the tie-in team was able to coordinate this complex and multi-faceted process. One key factor for success was the installation of build-over manholes (a.k.a., ‘Doghouse’ manholes) instead of the ‘conventional’ pre-benched manholes. This way, full installation occurred prior to tie-in dates, thus reducing public impacts and shortening each bypass. Night-time bypasses under low flow conditions saved time also.
Lessons Learned in Procurement
Tofino experienced that pervasive Canadian procurement phenomenon; a project that was trending grossly over budget. The market spoke in 2020 with two similar tendered proposals that were significantly over budget.
Here, the District wisely chose to engage with the contractors who submitted pricing to find a solution. Through a negotiated request for proposal and interview process, the District chose NAC Constructors Ltd. to work collaboratively with WSP to improve the capital cost of the facility and effectively redesign the initial WWTP. Focusing on certain constructability criteria to reduce capital cost, operating costs and improve quality, the project team pivoted, informing design and future decisions related to the WWTP process. Savings were also found for the conveyance and outfall work.
Even facing the COVID-19 pandemic, global inflation and supply chain woes, the entire project team developed and refined the design, reducing project construction cost to less than $70M. Even better, that close coordination and dedicated team dynamic meant the project was completed three months quicker than originally forecasted.
That mission culminated in the wastewater treatment system we see today, described in the following table:
Process
Conveyance, Collection
Piping and Pumps Stations tied into the existing Collection Systems
Headworks (Primary) Point of Entry to Wastewater Treatment Process
Equalization For Control of Flows into Wastewater Treatment Process
IFAS
(Secondary – Step 1)
Secondary Clarifiers (Secondary – Step 2)
Biological Treatment –Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge
Suspended Solids, Particulate & Sludge Removal
Sludge Collection (Secondary – Step 3) Collection and Removal of Sludge
Final Treatment (Secondary – Step 4)
Solids Removal and UV Disinfection
Mechanical Building Housing Pumps, Centrifuges, UV, Lab, Admin, and Electrical Rooms
Effluent/ Outfall
Return of Treated Effluent to the Marine Environment
• 4 Pump Stations
· Main St. [PS1], Centennial Park [PS2],
· Gas’n’Go/ Warren Way [PS4], and Wharf /First St [PS19])
• Approx. 3,600 Linear Metres of Force main
• Huber Supplied Headworks
· Primary Screens, Grit Removal,
· Collection Bins
• Splitter Box
• Headworks Building (Metal Building Group)
• 1 ea. Greatario Equalization Tank (Volume ~ 950 M3)
• 2 ea. Mixers
• 2 ea. Equalization Pumps
• 2 ea. Greatario IFAS Tanks (Volume ~ 400 M3)
• Veolia Supplied IFAS System
• Xylem Sanitaire Aeration System
• 2 ea. Greatario Sec. Clar. Tanks (Volume ~ 650 M3)
• 2 ea. Clarifier Mechanisms w/ Nefco FRP Launders
• Xylem Sanitaire Aeration System
• 2 ea. RAS Pumps
• 1 ea. TWAS Tank (Vol. ~ 90 M3)
• 2 ea. TWAS Pumps
• 2 ea. GEA Centrifuges
• Polymers Dosing
1 ea. Polymer Dosing Tank
2 ea. Polymer Dosing Pumps
• Centrate
1 ea. Centrate Tank (Vol. ~ 90 M3)
· 2 ea. Centrate Pumps
• Xylem Wedeco UV Filtration
• Mechanical Building (Metal Building Group)
• 1,500 Linear Metres of Gravity Effluent Line (at average flows)/Force main (at peak flows)
· 2 ea. Effluent Pumps
• 500 Linear Metres of Outfall
Contractor Performance
On August 22, 2024, The District of Tofino and NAC Constructors Ltd. celebrated the official opening event for the Tofino Wastewater Treatment Plant. This was followed up with Substantial Completion being accepted on September 20, 2024. From the commencement of construction, the NAC, WSP and staff at the District have been meticulously planning with
few phone calls, NAC was able to pool resources on short notice and get alternate generators running and fresh water back online, heat to the warming center community, and heat into the community center. This type of event was replicated, but that single major event created a lasting bond between NAC and the District of Tofino and demonstrated to the community that this contractor was here to help.
The District has utilized this project to contribute to a brand-new formalized asset management program with the implementation of a computerized maintenance management system, asset inventory program, GIS mapping software and extended SCADA capabilities for operations of critical infrastructure.
Looking into 2025, District staff have lots of
DISTRICT OF TOFINO, WSP AND NAC MEET TO PERFORM A SOAR EXERCISE IN JUNE 2023.
Playing the EDI Long Game: Recruiting and Retaining Women Professionals
By Quinn Crosina, M.A.Sc., P.Eng., Associated Engineering
The business case for advancing diversity and inclusion is now well-established. Improvements in performance metrics such as innovation, collaboration, risk management and financial performance positively correlate with diverse workplaces and all are very relevant to our industry.
Women are significantly under-represented in the engineering profession, with even lower levels of representation in senior positions and upper management. In 2023, Engineers Canada reported that only 20.2% of newly licensed engineers were women; the number is comparable in BC at 21.2%.
This is the story of how Associated Engineering, a Canadian, employee-owned consulting engineering firm with more than 75 years of history, has worked over a period of 10 years to improve the retention of women professionals and support their career progression. We’ll share insights gained over the years, some of the progress we’ve seen and where we still believe there is room for improvement.
BENCHMARKING
In 2017, an internal committee focused on women professionals started tracking various performance metrics related to gender. At that time, 24% of our engineers, 25% of our technologists and 53% of our scientists were women. That same year, the proportion of women hired across all levels was slightly higher: 37% of engineers, 28% of technologists and 55% of scientists. Historically, retention of women professionals across our organization was as much as six percentage points lower than men in the same roles. We were hiring a significant proportion of women scientists, engineers and technologists; however, these women professionals were quitting the company at a higher rate than men in the same roles.
For the years 2012 through 2017, voluntary resignations ranged from 8 to 12% of women professionals compared to 7 to 8% of men in the same roles. The data suggested we had fair and equitable hiring practices, but why were women leaving the company at a higher rate than men
in the same roles? We did a deep dive into data from exit interviews, but it was not consistent or conclusive. We decided to flip the question and explore why some women professionals stayed with the company.
The top reasons these women cited pertained to the people they worked with, the agency they had in meeting the requirements of their role and the availability of interesting, rewarding work and ‘stretch’ assignments. Beyond these, being a shareholder (owner) in the company was noted (as a lesser reason), while compensation was only mentioned by 10% of these women.
FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS
As an initial next step, we surveyed managers about their practices around flexible working arrangements. Survey results showed clearly that a formal framework would facilitate broader acceptance of flexible work arrangements across the company. Of course, the pandemic then accelerated the adoption of technologies that allow staff to work from home and connect remotely. Having a framework in place turned out to be very beneficial in providing options and guidance for flexible work arrangements, which then supported our ‘return to the office,’ with most staff still opting for hybrid work arrangements and this type of flexibility becoming normalized.
Next, we looked for opportunities to facilitate discussions between supervisors and their staff, particularly for scenarios that may be more commonly faced by women. We developed guidance documents for both employees and managers to help improve the transition to and from parental leave. We also introduced a parental leave top-up, available to all staff (men and women) who take parental leave. As well, our safety programs have become more robust and ingrained in our regular workflows.
MENTORING PROGRAMS
We next examined how to create opportunities for learning and growth. A well-established oneon-one Mentoring Program was already in place, but it was evident that select senior mentors were in high demand and that not everyone was comfortable with a one-on-one mentoring arrangement. We developed a Mentoring Circle program with three aims:
To increase access to senior mentors, particularly women in senior roles who were in high demand for our one-on-one mentoring program.
· To provide an alternate platform where some staff might be more comfortable, especially if they had reservations about one-on-one mentoring.
· To facilitate peer mentoring and sharing of experiences on a range of topics. The Mentoring Circles each fall under a broader theme, with a specific topic and a dedicated senior mentor or facilitator. In most cases, we have identified suitable reference materials to help guide the discussions, which range from videos to articles and books.
As part of cultivating a culture of respect, it was also important to us to address concerns around fairness. Could we address the perceived inequity in compensation? We initiated an annual salary comparison comparing average salaries of women to those of men at each of our professional classifications (levels). These routinely demonstrate to our management and staff that our average salaries by gender are within a few percentage points, with neither gender favoured.
SPONSORSHIP
The factor that took us the longest to determine how to build or expand on was sponsors or champions. Typically, these relationships develop organically when someone more senior identifies a high performer, advocates for them and mentors them. Sponsorship often results from more casual and even social activities or because of shared interests or traits, which leaves room for unintentional bias and/or favouritism. Often, employees from equity-seeking groups miss out on
these opportunities and end up at a disadvantage for internal opportunities or are overlooked altogether. A formal program can mitigate some of these issues.
We are currently piloting a formal Sponsorship Program aimed at facilitating the development of these relationships for equityseeking groups, including women professionals. Within a formal framework, a person might be identified by their supervisor or a colleague as a high performer in an equity-seeking group who could benefit from an advocate (or sponsor) for their career development. Sponsorship differs from a mentee-driven mentoring relationship in that a greater onus sits with the sponsor to work towards shared objectives. The aims of our Sponsorship Program include pairing intermediate and senior women with more senior staff who can help build their networks, identifying opportunities for skill development, and facilitating matching with interesting, rewarding work and stretch assignments.
THE GREAT RESIGNATION
Between 2017 and 2020, we saw a continued improvement in the retention of our women professionals, with trends that brought the numbers in line or even better than those for men in professional roles. Unfortunately, following the pandemic, we shared in the impacts experienced by many companies: the ‘Great Resignation’ as it was referred to in 2021 and 2022.
Much was said in the media about the ‘Great Resignation,” as well as in studies that point to the higher workloads’ of women, especially those in caregiving roles, carried through the pandemic, contributing to burnout in those same years and a change in priorities going forward. As of December 2023, our resignations for both women and men were still hovering around 14%, which is a marked increase from previous years but within or even below the ranges noted across the industry in those same years.
QuinnCrosina(right)presentsonDiversity&InclusionatAssociatedEngineering’sYoungProfessionalconference.
QuinnCrosina(right)servesontheBoardof DirectorsforAssociatedEngineering’sBCoperation.
Quinn Crosina (centre) surveysconstructionsitefornewreservoir.
We also see stability and steady increases in the number of women at senior levels, in both management roles and senior technical roles. We currently have 24% women in our shareholder group, up from 17% in 2017. Women also have a seat on the Boards of Directors of our various companies.
NEXT STEPS
What is encouraging is that, despite higher turnover, we have still seen steady increases in the number of women in professional roles
across the company. We now have 27% women in engineering roles, 30% women in technologist roles and 64% women in scientist roles.
INDUSTRY EXPERTS
We are currently embarking on a focus group initiative to understand what women professionals across the company need now to support them in their career progressions and to improve their experiences at work. Some key questions we have are: “Do women see a career path for themselves at the company? Are they finding the support they need? Do some of our existing programs have room for improvement?” We are looking for opportunities to improve upon existing initiatives and better support staff at all levels, particularly in a hybrid work environment. Improving retention is particularly relevant today in a job market in which recruiting talent and maintaining a stable workforce are challenging. By engaging more women at all levels in the water industry, we can better represent and meet the needs of the communities we serve and shape a better future for all of us.
References
Catalyst (2020). Why is DEI Important in the Workplace? (Quick Take). www.catalyst. org/research/why-diversity-andinclusion-matter
Engineers Canada. Women in Engineering 30 by 30. engineerscanada.ca/diversity/ women-in-engineering/30-by-30
About the Author
Quinn Crosina is the manager of the BC Urban Water Group for Associated Engineering. She completed her undergraduate and master’s degrees at the University of Waterloo in Environmental/Civil Engineering, specializing in drinking water treatment. Quinn joined Associated in 2007 and has served in technical and management roles on a range of water and wastewater planning, design, and construction projects. Quinn also serves on the Board of Directors for our BC operation. Since 2017, she has chaired a corporate committee aimed at improving the experience of women professionals across the company.
Reconvene and Reconnect: A SPACE TO
BCWWA’s Yukon Workshop & Trade Show Returns to Whitehorse
In October 2024, the BC Water & Waste Association (BCWWA) returned to the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre in Whitehorse for the 2024 Yukon Water & Wastewater Workshop & Trade Show. For two days, the Yukon’s water and wastewater community came together for an opportunity to advance knowledge and make connections as a sector.
On day one of the Yukon workshop, BCWWA President Negin Tousi and CEO Lee Coonfer greeted delegates with welcome remarks. This was followed by Andy Carlick from the Taku River Tlingit First Nation welcoming everyone with his presentation. Our keynote speaker, The Honourable Richard Mostyn, Minister of Community Services and Minister responsible for Yukon Workers’ Compensation Health and Safety Board, captivated the crowd with his presentation on the Yukon as the “true north, strong, and (somewhat) pipe free.” A strong start to the twoday event which saw plenty of insightful speakers drawing upon their knowledge and experience of the Yukon’s water sector.
Day two of the workshop began with the National First Nations Water Leadership Award. This award recognizes First Nations individuals or organizations that have demonstrated leadership and outstanding dedication to the advancement of clean and safe drinking water in First Nations communities. Congratulations to this year’s award nominee, Jon Widney, which was presented by Kevin Rumsey, Source Water Protection Specialist for the Yukon Territory.
Alongside informative presentations, the day included an operator panel session moderated by Matthew Sider from WSP, in which an open dialogue was held with operators on the current challenges and successes within the Yukon water community. The afternoon saw a technical tour of the Marsh Lake Army Beach Water Treatment Facility, which let attendees visit
and learn about the facility, the only active membrane filtration system in the Yukon, and a lunchtime networking opportunity for First Nation water operators and managers.
The BCWWA would like to thank all who attended our event and hope that the workshop provided the opportunity to reconnect with your fellow peers through learning and connection
with one another. We look forward to continuing to serve our Yukon members at our next workshop in 2026.
For more information about the Yukon Water & Wastewater Workshop & Trade Show and to see past photos, visit bcwwayukonconference.org.
WHAT PEOPLE SAID
“This was a very good event for city water staff.”
“The presentations were great and informative. The trade show was an opportunity to see new and upcoming tech in the water and waste industry, as well as being able to meet and talk with others in the industry.”
Reconvene and Reconnect: A SPACE TO “ “ “
“I appreciated how relevant topics were to the region, the First Nation participation and choice of venue.”
• 90% of delegates were satisfied with the event.
• 90% of delegates found the speakers to be knowledgeable and engaging.
• 94% of delegates indicated that the event was a valuable networking opportunity for them.
■
■
■ Outstanding
■
Cybersecurity: What Water Utility Leaders and Professionals Should Know
Federal legislation requires community water systems serving 3,300 or more people to consider cybersecurity threats in their risk and resilience assessment, as well as in their emergency response plan.
AWWA can help systems of all sizes, with essential planning resources to start your water utility on the path to cyber resilience. Clarify your exposure to cyber risks, set priorities, and execute an appropriate and proactive cybersecurity strategy.
Explore AWWA’s Cybersecurity & Guidance page:
• AWWA’s Cybersecurity Guidance and Assessment Tool
• Policy action updates
• Current education and events
• Up-to-date risk management resources
www.awwa.org/cybersecurity
The Hidden Complexity
of SCADA and IT in the Municipal Water and Waste Industry
By Max McLean, P.Eng.
“Isn’t it just a bit of programming?” This phrase is often heard in the context of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and IT systems in municipal water and waste facilities. However, this common misconception significantly underestimates the complexity and expertise required in this field.
The Sophistication Behind the Scenes
SCADA and IT systems in the municipal water and waste industry are far from simple. These systems demand a deep understanding of the integration of software, hardware and electro-mechanical systems. Professionals in this field must be adept at designing and implementing systems that can monitor and control water treatment and waste management processes with precision and reliability. This involves not only writing code, but also understanding the physical systems that the code will control.
For instance, consider a municipal wastewater treatment plant.
The SCADA system must monitor and control various parameters such as water flow, chemical dosing and filtration processes. Any error in the programming can lead to significant issues, including safety hazards and environmental violations. Therefore, professionals must have a thorough understanding of both the software and the physical processes they are automating.
Adhering to Standards and Regulations
Another layer of complexity in SCADA and IT systems is the need to adhere to industry-specific standards and regulations. These standards ensure that systems operate safely and efficiently. For example, in the municipal water industry, SCADA systems must comply with regulations set by environmental protection agencies to ensure that water treatment processes do not harm the environment or public health. SCADA and control system specific standards such as ISA 101, ISA 112, and ISA 118 play a crucial role in guiding the design and implementation of these systems:
• ISA 101 focuses on Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) for process automation systems, ensuring that interfaces are user-friendly and effective in conveying critical information.
• ISA 112 provides guidelines for SCADA systems used in water and wastewater utilities, emphasizing reliability, security and efficiency.
• ISA 18.2 addresses alarm management and rationalization strategies. Professionals should be familiar with these standards to design their systems to best practice. This requires continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry standards.
The Importance of Cybersecurity
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is a critical aspect of SCADA and IT systems in the municipal water and waste industry. Protecting these systems from cyber threats is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of water and waste management processes.
Key cybersecurity measures include:
• Demilitarized Zones (DMZs): A DMZ is a physical or logical subnetwork that separates an internal local area network (LAN) from other untrusted networks, usually the internet. This adds an extra layer of security by isolating the SCADA system from external threats.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a system. This significantly enhances security for remote access, ensuring that only authorized personnel can control critical infrastructure. Implementing these cybersecurity measures helps protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats that could disrupt operations and compromise safety.
The Risks of Ad-Hoc Programming
When SCADA and IT systems are implemented ‘ad-hoc’ by unqualified individuals, the consequences can be severe. Safety violations, increased downtime, premature equipment failure and reduced efficiency are just
a few of the potential issues. For example, an improperly programmed sludge dewatering system could malfunction, leading to environmental contamination and costly cleanup efforts.
In another scenario, a poorly programmed water distribution system could lead to inefficient water use, resulting in higher operational costs and potential water shortages. These examples highlight the importance of having qualified professionals handle SCADA and IT systems.
The Role of a SCADA Master Plan
Many municipalities lack the resources to maintain their SCADA systems themselves. This is where a SCADA Master Plan becomes essential. A SCADA Master Plan provides a strategic framework for the development, maintenance, and expansion of SCADA systems over time. It ensures consistency and vision as the system ages and grows, addressing both current needs and future challenges.
A SCADA Master Plan typically includes:
• Assessment of Current Systems: Evaluating the existing SCADA infrastructure to identify strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement.
• Future Planning: Outlining a roadmap for upgrades, expansions and new implementations to meet future demands.
• Standardization: Establishing standards and protocols to ensure consistency across different parts of the system.
• Maintenance Strategies: Developing plans for regular maintenance, updates and cybersecurity measures to keep the system secure and efficient.
• Training and Support: Providing training for staff and ensuring access to technical support to handle any issues that arise. By following a SCADA Master Plan, municipalities can ensure that their SCADA systems remain reliable, secure and capable of meeting the evolving needs of their communities.
The Expertise and Dedication Required
The next time you hear someone say, “Isn’t it just a bit of programming?” remember the expertise and dedication that goes into SCADA and IT systems in the municipal water and waste industry. It is a field that requires a unique blend of skills, including software development, electrical engineering and an understanding of mechanical systems. Moreover, it demands a commitment to continuous learning and adherence to strict standards and regulations. SCADA and IT systems are not just about writing code; they are about creating systems that can operate safely and efficiently in complex environments. It is a field that is as challenging as it is rewarding, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water and waste management systems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SCADA and IT systems in the municipal water and waste industry are vital and intricate fields that go far beyond “just a bit of programming.” They require a deep understanding of various disciplines, adherence to strict standards like ISA 101, ISA 112 and ISA 118, and a commitment to safety and efficiency. Additionally, robust cybersecurity measures such as DMZs and multi-factor authentication are essential to protect these critical systems. For municipalities with limited resources, a SCADA Master Plan is crucial to maintain consistency and vision as the system ages and grows. The next time you encounter this misconception, take a moment to appreciate the complexity and expertise involved in this essential aspect of modern municipal infrastructure.
It is a field that requires a unique blend of skills, including software development, electrical engineering, and an understanding of mechanical systems.
Max McLean, P.Eng., is an accomplished electrical engineer with 12 years of experience in DCS, PLC and SCADA system programming, as well as plant startup and commissioning. His expertise extends to low voltage panel design, instrumentation design, and control narrative writing. Max has successfully led projects across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Oregon, Washington, Louisiana, Colorado, Florida and Mexico. Since 2023, he has been running his own practice in Courtenay, BC. Outside of his professional life, Max enjoys skiing, surfing, backpacking, camping and exploring the many amenities that the thriving community of Comox Valley has to offer.
Here’s To Our Amazing Volunteers
2024 Annual Recognition Program
We often say at the BCWWA that our organization is only as good as our staff and volunteers. It is this active volunteer community base that provides the industry insights needed for us to effectively deliver value-add programs and services and represent member interests to stakeholders and the public. In this, we ensure that every contribution is recognized and celebrated with our Annual Recognition Program. These individuals have shown consistent service to the organization in a short amount of time and bring outstanding contributions and engagement that support our overall mission. We would like to thank each volunteer for spending their valuable time to support the BCWWA community this year. For those moving on to other opportunities, we sincerely appreciate your lasting contributions to the BCWWA.
Mark Bolton, WSP Reconciliation Committee
Co-Chair & Founding Member
We wish to acknowledge Mark Bolton of WSP, a founding member and co-chair of the Reconciliation Committee and a long-standing Drinking Water Committee member. Mark went above and beyond in securing and working closely with First Nations speaker Maxine Joseph-Bruce of the Lil’wat Nation for the 2024 BCWWA Annual Conference & Trade Show and leading a meaningful cultural tour of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre for conference delegates alongside Co-chair Alex Bevan. Mark led the Reconciliation Committee with thoughtfulness and grace and went to lengths to ensure meaningful and mindful conversation. Mark’s outstanding contributions to the BCWWA have greatly enriched both committees. His commitment to this important work for our organization leaves a lasting impact and legacy. A huge thank you, Mark!
2024 Yukon Water & Wastewater Workshop & Trade Show Planning Committee
Ewan McDonald, Yukon University
Matthew Sider, WSP
Mike Firlotte, City of Abbotsford and Yukon University
a heartfelt thanks to the incredible members of the Yukon Water & Wastewater Workshop & Trade Show Planning Committee – Ewan McDonald, Mike Firlotte and Mathew Sider – for their leadership and dedication in making this another truly enriching event. Each of them invested hours of hard work into developing the education program and leading the presentations, workshops and panel discussions for the workshop. The creation of a ‘lunch and learn’ meeting provided a space for First Nation water operators and managers to connect and network with each other during the Yukon workshop. We are grateful for their extraordinary contributions.
Thank You, Past SCADA & IT Committee Members
We extend our sincere gratitude to all past SCADA Committee members, in particular, past Co-chairs Frank Tarbox and Victor Wong. For the better part of a decade, Frank and Victor have dedicated their time and expertise to the operation of the SCADA Committee and planning for BCWWA’s popular SCADA & IT Conference & Trade Show. This committee was created to guide and support the professional development of SCADA & IT professionals in the water and wastewater sector, and we deeply appreciate the commitment and contributions of all past chairs and committee members.
Abbi Kau, PE (ID, UT), McElhanney
BCWWA Education Program Peer Reviewer
We extend our thanks and gratitude to Abbi Kau for dedicating her time and knowledge to our education program in the role of peer reviewer. Abbi has been assisting the BCWWA Education team in updating the Small Wastewater Systems course.
After a successful Yukon Water & Wastewater Workshop & Trade Show in 2023, the workshop returned to Whitehorse in October 2024. We extend Thank
BCWWA EDUCATION COURSE CALENDAR
Self-Paced Instructor Assisted Online Courses
Are you looking for more flexibility and to enjoy learning at your own pace? If so, you may want to consider taking one of the BCWWA online certification courses. There is a dedicated instructor available throughout the course to provide guidance and answer questions via email. Registration for the winter 2025 series opens December 6, 2024, and the courses will begin on January 6, 2025.
BCWWA EDUCATION COURSE CALENDAR
Instructor-Led Virtual Classroom Courses
These courses will be delivered by an instructor and will run for the same lengths and times that the ‘regular’ in-class course would have.
April 15, 2025
April 16, 2025
April 17, 2025
May 6–7, 2025
May 8,
May 13, 2025
May 14,
15,
May 26–30, 2025
May 29–30, 2025
June 2–6, 2025
To see our full course schedule for 2025, please visit bcwwa.org/site/education/calendar.
INSTRUMENTATION & VALVING SOLUTIONS
• Endress+Hauser: D.O., Cl2, pH, Turbidity, Nitrate and Ammonia Analyzers, Flowmeters, Level/Pressure, Wastewater Samplers, Analyzer Panels, Commissioning Services, Flow Verification
• De Nora: Capital and F&P Chlorine Gas Systems, Onsite Sodium Hypochlorite Generation, UV Disinfection, PFAS Treatment
• Blue-White Industries: Peristaltic Meter Pumps and Stands
• Grundfos Pumps: Diaphragm Meter Pumps and Stands, Dice Dosing Chemical Systems
• Pieralisi: Decanter Centrifuges
• Challenger Valve: Manual and Motorized Butterfly Valves
• Orbinox: Manual and Motorized Knife Gate Valves
Conference Issue: One Water, One Future
Publishing April 2025
Leadership & Governance
Publishing July 2025
Advocacy
Publishing October 2025
Community
Publishing December 2025
Submit your story idea or article to communication@bcwwa.org or visit bcwwa.org to see submission guidelines.
CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL EXAM SCHEDULE
Schedule subject to change. Please visit the BCWWA CCC Exam Calendar at www.bcwwa.org/site/ccc/certification/calendar for more information and updates.
Certification Exam
January 18, 2025
January 24, 2025
January 27, 2025
January 30, 2025
January 31, 2025
February 8, 2025
February 21, 2025
March 8, 2025
March 21, 2025
March 22, 2025
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)
Camosun College
Okanagan College
BCIT
Thompson Rivers University (TRU)
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)
Pacific Vocational College (PVC)
Camosun College
Camosun College
Okanagan College
Surrey
Victoria
Kelowna
Burnaby
Kamloops
Surrey
Burnaby
Victoria
Victoria
Kelowna
Advertiser Product & Service Centre
Watermark is made possible by the companies below who convey their important messages on our pages. We thank them for their support of BCWWA and its publication and encourage you to contact them when making your purchasing decisions. To make it easier to contact these companies, we have included the page number of their advertisement, their phone number, and, where applicable, their website.
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Expect More.
We are up for any challenge. Complex projects are opportunities to demonstrate our unmatched skill, outside-the-box innovations and unyielding strength. Whether you are looking to replace aging water/ wastewater infrastructure or need a trenchless solution with minimal impact on the surrounding environment, we will exceed your expectations for quality, safety and sustainability.
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