We are exploring opportunities to sell our treated effluent, or non-potable water, as a water source to industry where potable water is not required.
Significant amounts of water are consumed by industry in Alberta. In 2016, about 7 million cubic metres of water was used to hydraulically fracture wells in Alberta and much was sourced from surface water and fresh groundwater.
The remainder of the water used was from alternative sources such as saline groundwater, flowback, produced water and municipal wastewater.
Click here for more information on Source Control.
Protect Yourself from Water Damage
Spring is here, and with it comes increased rainfall. Protect your home and property by following these preventative maintenance tips:
- Maintain and lower your eavestroughs
- Check your rain barrel for leaks or overflow
- Inspect your basement for signs of water – make sure your sump pump is working properly
- Ensure all doors and windows are sealed
Proper Sump Pump Water Disposal
If you have a sump pump, please remember it must NOT be connected to the City’s sewer system. Any hoses leading to drains inside your home should be disconnected immediately.
Instead, direct sump pump water:
- Away from your house
- Onto a grassy or non-paved area
- Where it can be absorbed on your own property
Please do NOT direct water:
- Into floor drains
- Into manholes
- On to adjacent or neighbouring properties
- On to public areas such as streets, lanes, sidewalks, or boulevards
Learn more in this helpful video.
4P's
Remember, there are only four things can be safely flushed down a toilet: Pee, Poo, Paper (Toilet) and Puke. Flushing paper products other than toilet paper can cause blockages and fibres that make up disposable wipes are thick which means they don’t break down like toilet paper. Even if a wipe is branded as “flushable”, it is not.
Anything outside the 4P's could damage our water infrastructure system and could lead to contamination of our waterways.
Environmentally friendly
Aquatera follows rigorous environmental standards to treat its wastewater so that it can be safely discharged back in the Wapiti River. In fact, over 80 per cent of what is taken from the river is safely returned.
By exploring opportunities to expand services in large scale industrial wastewater treatment, there is an opportunity for industry to consume less water and recycle what they do use. Only treated effluent not required to be returned to the environment will be available for sale.
AEPA Supported
Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (AEPA) supports the reuse of municipal wastewater for hydraulic fracturing as a reasonable alternative to potable water or water from streams and shallow aquifers.
Industry benefits from the use of treated effluent as it is a readily available resource that is more environmentally sustainable, is located closer to major industry, therefore saving time, and is available at a cost that is much less than potable water.
What is improper disposal in wastewater systems?
Improper disposal refers to the practice of discarding materials or substances into wastewater systems that should not be there, such as plastics, oils, chemicals, and non-biodegradable items. This can clog pipes, damage infrastructure, and pollute the environment.
What should only be disposed of in the wastewater system?
Only the 4 P’s should go into the wastewater system: pee, poo, paper (toilet paper), and puke. Anything else, such as wipes, grease, or chemicals, can cause damage.
What are the environmental impacts of improper wastewater disposal?
Improper disposal can contaminate water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans, introducing harmful chemicals, toxins, and pathogens that damage ecosystems and harm aquatic life.
How does improper disposal affect the infrastructure of wastewater systems?
Non-biodegradable items like plastics, oils, and sanitary products can clog pipes and sewage systems. This causes blockages, overflows, and backups, leading to costly repairs and system inefficiencies.
What happens when wastewater systems are clogged?
Clogged pipes and sewage systems can result in overflows, environmental contamination, unpleasant odors, and disruptions in service. This leads to higher maintenance costs and potential health risks.
Why is it important to properly dispose of wastewater?
Proper disposal ensures cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and more efficient wastewater systems. It prevents pollution, reduces infrastructure damage, and lowers maintenance costs, benefiting both communities and the environment.
What are the risks of flushing non-biodegradable items?
Flushing non-biodegradable items like wipes, plastic products, or oils can cause significant damage to plumbing, result in costly repairs, and contribute to environmental pollution.
How can I help prevent improper disposal in wastewater systems?
Educate yourself and others about what can and cannot be disposed of in wastewater systems. Always dispose of non-biodegradable items properly, use alternatives like compostable wipes, and encourage others to follow responsible disposal practices.
What should I do if I accidentally dispose of something inappropriate?
If you realize you've disposed of something that shouldn't be in the wastewater system, avoid flushing any more improper items. If you suspect a clog or overflow, contact a professional to ensure the issue is addressed quickly.
What are the consequences of improper disposal on health?
Improper disposal can introduce harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals into water sources, leading to waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis, which pose significant health risks to humans and animals.
What materials should never be flushed or disposed of in drains?
Materials such as wet wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, sanitary products, oils, fats, chemicals, medications, and plastics should never be flushed or disposed of in drains. Remember, only the 4 P’s should go into the wastewater system: pee, poo, paper (toilet paper), and puke.
How does wastewater treatment help mitigate pollution?
Wastewater treatment processes help remove harmful contaminants, chemicals, and pathogens from wastewater, ensuring that it is safe for release into the environment and preventing pollution of water sources.
