Minister orders review of aquifer in Spallumcheen

B.C.’s new environment minister has ordered a review of the Hullcar Aquifer in Spallumcheen.

About 200 residents have been under a water-quality advisory since 2014 because of elevated nitrate levels in the aquifer, which supplies their drinking water.

Residents say their water is being contaminated by local farming operations, but the previous provincial government responded that a combination of factors was likely affecting the aquifer.

A sewage lagoon breach at one of the farms in February spilled 120,000 gallons of effluent. Pollution-abatement and pollution-prevention orders were issued to nine agricultural operations, but the NDP at the time accused the Liberals of dragging their feet on ensuring compliance.

In March, the Liberal government came up with $950,000 to support alternative drinking water sources, fund treatment for domestic well users and develop environmentally appropriate farming practices in the Hullcar Valley.

Now, Environment Minister George Heyman said an independent, respected expert will lead a review with the end goal of ensuring agricultural practices are consistent with the provision and protection of clean, safe drinking water. The report will be due at the end of September. Calvin Sandborn, legal director with the University of Victoria’s Environmental Law Centre, will serve as special adviser to the reviewer.

“Providing the residents of the Hullcar Valley with an innovative, new path forward is a priority for me,” Heyman said in a news release. “Residents need to have faith that government is listening and will be taking action to protect water quality and safety in the region while ensuring agricultural interests are protected.”

“The mayor and council are pleased to learn that the review will take place,” said Spallumcheen Mayor Janice Brown in the release. “Improper disposal of agricultural waste is an issue not only in our community, but elsewhere in B.C. as well. This review provides an opportunity to find ways for a vibrant agriculture industry and safe drinking water to go hand in hand.”

Findings will be posted publicly on the ministry’s website.