Sewer System on Bouchie Lake

The proposal to implement a sewer system for Bouchie Lake has been floated (excuse the pun) many times over the years. This project would be very expensive and would likely only be possible through a taxation function on the properties in and around the Bouchie Lake area. Such a function would need to be approved by referendum organized by the Cariboo Regional District, and a referendum will likely not be undertaken unless a survey of residents indicate a majority in favour of such a proposal. Area B director, Barb Bachmeier, has proposed the project to the CRD.

SEWER SYSTEM FOR BOUCHIE LAKE?  Info. Meeting - April 30th

The Cariboo Regional District will be hosting a public information meeting on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Bouchie Lake Hall to provide information and seek input on the proposal surrounding a Sewer System.

Cariboo Regional District is with Barb Bachmeier - CRD Area B Director.

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We are seeking your input on the health of the Bouchie Lake watershed and the future of a proposed sewer system for the surrounding community. We are considering whether to study the feasibility of such a system, and first want to understand the desires of the community.

We will be hosting a public information meeting on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Bouchie Lake Community Hall to provide information and seek input on the proposal.

Bouchie Lake suffers from seasonal algae blooms, which present health, safety and environmental hazards for humans and animals. A study completed in 2009 by the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy indicated that these algae blooms were the result of excessive levels of phosphorus and nitrogen entering the watershed. A significant amount comes from septic systems along the lake which are in various stages of repair.

We first need to complete a feasibility study to understand the capital costs involved, the type of systems that would be appropriate, and the taxation implications.

This proposal is being considered as one workable option to reduce the amount of nutrient inflow into Bouchie Lake. We first need to complete a feasibility study to understand the capital costs involved, the type of systems that would be appropriate, and the taxation implications. Other actions would also need to be taken, including:

• Official Community Plan amendments to add a sewer system plan and land use policies;

• Engineering designs and drawings for a collection and treatment system;

• Consultation with First Nations and relevant provincial agencies;

• Confirm financing, including any local area taxation, borrowing, and grant funds; and

• Hold a referendum to seek approval for the service being established.

If you have further questions, concerns, or ideas about the proposed feasibility study, we encourage you to attend this event. Please let us know if you plan to attend by selecting the RSVP link at cariboord.ca/BouchieLakeSewer/

This site also has links to the Watershed Management Plan as well as the proposed sewer system service area map.