The City of Dawson Creek is moving ahead with a major infrastructure proposal aimed at securing a more reliable water supply, following early feedback from residents, Indigenous communities and regulators.
The Dawson Creek Water Supply System project would see water drawn from the Peace River and transported to the city through a 52-kilometre transmission line, supported by new intake and pumping infrastructure. The project is designed to provide long-term stability for households, businesses, agriculture and emergency services.
Concerns raised during early engagement
The proposal is currently in the early engagement phase with the B.C. Environmental Assessment Office, a stage that invites public and stakeholder input before more detailed planning begins.
According to the city, feedback gathered last fall pointed to several areas of concern, including the need for clearer communication, stronger relationships with Indigenous communities and more transparency around the project’s impacts and benefits.
City officials say that input will help shape the next phase of planning.
City outlines next steps
In response, the city says it is taking steps to strengthen both the technical and public-facing sides of the project. That includes expanding its project team, improving communications and engagement efforts, and working with provincial and federal governments to explore funding options.
The city also says it plans to renew engagement with Indigenous communities, with a focus on meaningful dialogue and incorporating Indigenous knowledge into the planning process.
The project remains in the early engagement phase while the city prepares a Detailed Project Description, a key document required for the environmental assessment process.
Officials say they will continue consulting with Indigenous communities, residents, landowners and regulatory agencies as the proposal evolves. An update on next steps is expected in the near future.
The push for a new water source comes as the region faces increasing pressure on the Kiskatinaw River, Dawson Creek’s current water supply. Recent drought conditions and low river levels have highlighted the system’s vulnerability.
The proposed project would also support nearby communities, including Pouce Coupe, while reducing strain on the Kiskatinaw watershed.
Residents can follow project updates at dawsoncreek.ca/water-supply.
