Taking a Longer View
CHALLENGE: Prior to 2008, Kluskus village IR#1 (located west of Quesnel, BC) sourced its water from a single, large-diameter, shallow well next to Kluskus Creek, but it was susceptible to turbidity and bacterial contamination. That well was replaced by two deep- supply wells, but these have proven to have elevated levels of iron and manganese, and they are located in a historic burial area and approximately 80 metres from a failing septic field. The community is off-grid, and power is supplied by a diesel generator. The permanent residents — a population that fluctuates from 20 to 35 — rely on bottled water and have long desired an alternate water source and robust treatment system to address esthetic quality and chronically high levels of iron and manganese.
SOLUTION: Seeking an alternative water source, the community engaged the partners to investigate viable options. The participants conducted a thorough study of neighbouring lakes and creeks, but none proved to be a viable option for the long term. The partners also identified different locations for new wells, and conducted pilot testing of several treatment options. The ultimate solution was favoured by the community, and also is considered appropriate for local settings by local health authorities and the funding agency.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS: The partners searched for long-term sustainability in a new water source and system, rather than simply problem solving for the short term.
Consideration of long-term sustainability brought out creative strategies acceptable to both health authorities and the funding agency that likely would not have been discovered during a search for a quick fix.
![Taking a Longer View](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6697241e5814c93f6a23b0f3/6697241e5814c93f6a23b36e_image-069.webp)
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Additional Case Studiess
Discovering Common Ground
Shifting from Sequential to Simultaneous
Breaking with Conventions
Support Water Health
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