By Corey Fischer

New Options Sought For Waste

Apr 11, 2017 | 2:35 PM

The cities of Vernon and Kelowna are working together to find ways to manage what gets flushed down the toilet.

Officially, it’s called treated wastewater solids, and currently, the 28,000 wet tonnes produced each year are mixed with wood chips and made into a sellable compost at a facility on Commonage Road south of Vernon.

However, space limitations, wood chip supply challenges, and the region’s increased production of waste solids have created a need for the cities to consider new options.

The cities are looking for community input through stakeholder meetings and a survey that can be completed on the City of Kelowna and the City of Vernon websites and at the region’s three wastewater treatment facilities.

RCMP HQ Expansion

Vernon okay's initial plan for RCMP detachment expansion

13h ago

Food Garden Watering, Some Pool Refilling Allowed

Vernon restrictions modified to preserve water, meet public need

17h ago

Missing person

Public asked for assistance locating missing youth

Jun 17, 2026

“We want to hear the interests and values of the community,” says City of Vernon Communications Officer Tanya Laing Gahr. “How we manage wastewater solids is an important part of sustainability planning for the region.”

You can learn more about the options that are being considered and complete the Wastewater Solids Management Survey by visiting the City of Kelowna’s new public engagement site: getinvolved.kelowna.ca.

“We are committed to finding a socially, economically and environmentally responsible long-term solution,” says City of Kelowna Utilities Planning Manager Andrew Reeder. “We are looking for a sustainable balance that maximizes the value of a nutrient-rich resource and minimizes potential impacts to communities and the environment.”

CLICK HERE for more information on the regional compost facility.

by Corey Fischer