The District of Tofino is on track to finally begin treating its raw sewage by late-2024 and is celebrating a recent cash infusion to boost its efforts to get there.
The provincial and federal governments have announced a joint-investment of over $12.5 million towards the second phase of Tofino’s wastewater treatment project.
“I am extremely pleased to announce that thanks to tremendous Provincial and Federal government support, the District of Tofino and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation will soon be able to achieve the long-standing goal of treating all local sewage entering Clayoquot Sound,” Tofino mayor Dan Law said through a media release announcing the funding.
“I applaud all those who have worked diligently over the past decade to contribute to the successful design and ongoing construction of this state-of-the-art Wastewater Treatment Plant and Conveyance System.”
Law added that Tofino’s district staff and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation staff “worked together seamlessly” with contractors and the provincial and federal governments to reach the longstanding sewage treatment goal.
“Once operational, this project’s social and environmental stewardship benefits will extend far beyond local communities, encompassing the almost one million regional visitors as well,” Law said. “I thank residents and local businesses for their patience and understanding during the ongoing construction phase. Staff, engineers, and contractors are doing an excellent job, and I look forward to a timely and successful completion in 2024.”
The funding announcement notes that Tofino is located within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and within the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
“The announcement of this important joint investment is a tribute to the responsible stewardship and sound planning of the leaders and staff of District of Tofino and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation; and the willingness of federal and provincial governments to share their vision for a pristine environment,” said Courtenay-Alberni MP Gord Johns. “The beneficiaries of this historic announcement are all those species that rely on healthy marine ecosystems in Clayoquot Sound. Kleco Kleco to all those who have made this possible.”
Construction of the first phase of Tofino’s incoming wastewater treatment facility began last year. The facility will initially serve Tofino and the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, though negotiations around connecting the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to the system are expected to be held in the future.
“Tofitians care deeply about the natural environment and have worked for years to develop a modern, reliable wastewater treatment system to improve water quality in Clayoquot Sound, support Indigenous practices and local economies, and protect human health,” said Mid Island-Pacific Rim MLA Josie Osborne. “This project - the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken in Tofino - was possible because of the vision, collaboration and partnership between the District of Tofino, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, the Province of BC, and Canada. I offer my gratitude and congratulations to everyone involved in this long awaited achievement.”
The project is expected to cost roughly $77.5 million and is on track to be completed in late 2024.
“The successful planning of this project would not have been made possible without the collaborative efforts and hard work of many,” District of Tofino CAO Nyla Attiana. “The District is appreciative of the continued support and commitment from the Provincial and Federal governments to our project and community. We are grateful for the patience and understanding of our residents and visitors as construction continues throughout the community.”
More information about the project can be found at talktofino.ca/wastewater-treatment-plant.
“We recognize the improvements to Tofino’s wastewater treatment facility will enhance the protection to our environment and improve life for British Columbians,” said BC’s Minister for Municipal Affairs Anne Kang. “I am excited to see this collaborative project service both Tofino and the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation as it strengthens these communities and helps preserve an area known for its natural beauty.”
andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca
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