The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is seeking community feedback as they actively work to provide safe drinking water to station users in Rose Prairie.
The water station, located on 259 Road, has faced numerous issues over the years. Since 2018, there has been water quality problems, treatment challenges, and high costs in seeking alternative solutions.
The water quality issues included cloudiness and odour in the water. In 2020, a temporary treatment system was installed, which improved water quality. However, hazardous gases were detected in 2021 through testing and could not be removed, leading to the station’s shutdown.
A 2022 investigation found hydrogen sulfide and methane as the major gases present, with repair costs estimated at over $1.3 million at the time.
Drilling for new wells began in 2024 with mixed results -- two wells were deemed unsuitable, according to the PRRD. A third well, located near the existing station, showed promise, but complications during development led to inconclusive test results.
A fourth well drill has now been recommended.
An in-person community meeting is scheduled at the Montney Recreation Hall on March 26, from three to 5:00 p.m. to discuss the updates.
“Further drilling decision will be informed by community feedback. Grant funding supports the drilling program with no tax requisition used,” reads a PRRD release.
Feedback is also being sought through an online survey open until April 2nd.