Million dollar solution to polluted drinking water

It’s welcome news for north Okanagan residents whose water supply is dangerously polluted.

The provincial government will spend $950,000 to help develop alternative drinking water sources for Spallumcheen residents who draw their water from the Hullcar aquifer.

READ MORE: MLA defends province’s handling of Hullcar Aquifer

The Steele Springs Waterworks District users have been under a water quality advisory since 2014 because of high concentrations of nitrates in the water.

In a news release, the district’s Board of Trustees states: “Working towards a solution to provide safe drinking water for Hullcar residents has always been our top priority. We will work with the government to ensure the work needed to facilitate this happens as soon as possible. ”

The government says comprehensive testing shows the pollution is coming from several sources.

However, the water district believes the bulk of the contaminants is coming from a large dairy farm that spreads liquid manure on fields over the aquifer.

Pollution abatement orders were issued to several farm operations last year requiring them to better manage agricultural waste.

“I want to thank the residents in the Hullcar Valley who have been incredibly patient while we’ve worked to find solutions to a very challenging and complex problem,” said environment minister Mary Polak in the release.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I want to thank the residents in the Hullcar Valley who have been incredibly patient while we've worked to find solutions to a very challenging and complex problem," said environment minister Mary Polak in the release.

The government says some of its funding will also go towards treatment for domestic well users and to support environmentally appropriate farming practices.