First phase in water reservoir project complete

By Melissa Mangelsen

The first phase of the ongoing water project has been successfully completed. In total three phases will be completed. The first phase was to install new potable water reservoirs because the old ones were deteriorating and past their life expectancy.

They were also deficient in their capacity for the size of the community and did not allow for growth.

"We didn't have enough to ensure community had enough potable water," said Director of Works and Utilities Blaine Crowley.

The new reservoirs double the town's storage capacity for potable water and provide for future growth and security for the Water Treatment Facility.

The new potable water reservoirs were brought online, Nov. 26, and now for an integral part of Nipawin's distribution system.

The need for the reservoirs was identified through a series of water system assessments by the town's engineers and in consultation with Saskatchewan Environment.

The project began in the spring of 2010, which included twinning of lines from the old Water Treatment Plant. Crowley said there were several components to phase one of the project.

The project is expected to be complete in 2017, which will include the addition of four new wells. The town already has four, but four more will be added to ensure there is enough water. The wells are expected to be complete in 2014.

They have already begun working on the land control phase, which is bringing in new twinning from the wells south of town.

The total project will cost the town between $20 and $25 million, with the first phase coming in at about $6 million.

"We've been looking for grants to help us pay for the project, but right now there's nothing available," said Crowley.

Funding for the project will also be provided by utilities, which is the water/sewer bills. Crowley said town council intends to hold a public meeting early in the new year to discuss how the money will be raised, and how it will effect residents.