The City of Vernon’s Water Reclamation Centre (VWRC) plays an important role in managing wastewater and supporting sustainable water use throughout Greater Vernon.
The City’s Operations Services division is responsible for treating and beneficially reusing wastewater generated throughout the community, including Vernon, parts of Coldstream, Okanagan Landing and the Blue Jay subdivision.
Located at 2100 43rd Street, the VWRC has operated at this location since the 1930s and has undergone several expansions and upgrades over the years to support a growing community. Today, the facility serves treats an average of 13 megalitres of wastewater each day. Solids removed during the treatment process are dewatered and composted, creating a nutrient-rich final product that is sold commercially.
Update: Expanded reclaimed water use supports agricultural irrigation
The City of Vernon has expanded its reclaimed water program to support agricultural irrigation during ongoing drought conditions.
A temporary connection has been completed between the City’s reclaimed water system and the Regional District of North Okanagan’s non-potable irrigation system in the Bella Vista and West Swan Lake service area. This connection allows highly treated reclaimed water to be delivered directly to agricultural properties using existing infrastructure.
The expanded use of reclaimed water will support nearly 100 irrigation customers in the Bella Vista and Swan Lake areas, helping address immediate irrigation needs while regional water supplies continue to experience increased pressure from drought conditions. Read the full release.