Chemical toilet in winter. (ID 84179973 © Aviag7 | Dreamstime.com )

By Kevin Rothwell

low-risk liability

Okanagan Rail Trail toilet to stay the winter

Jan 22, 2021 | 6:00 AM

Winter users of the Okanagan Rail Trail will have a place of relief following discussions between the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) and the Municipal Insurance Association (MIA).

Initially the plan of having a chemical toilet at the trail head in Coldstream at Kickwillie Loop had raised concerns about liability, and potentially, the need to do winter maintenance on the trail.

“MIA indicates there is limited risk, but we should have a policy in place,” Mike Fox, RDNO General Manager of Community Services, said.

Permanent washrooms are being constructed at kilometre zero, and the policy would cover those facilities which would open this spring, with plans to have them open year-round.

An accessible temporary washroom is open and being maintained.

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The District of Lake Country currently has two chemical toilets at Beasley Park and in Oyama, but have not developed policy.

“What about vandalism? I know we have a problem in Vernon with our public washrooms,” Vernon Coun. Dalvir Nahal asked.

“We will have security and our cleaning contractor opening and closing the washrooms daily,” Fox replied.

Staff will also talk with B.C. Parks about maintaining the pit toilets at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park.