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Aerial view of Swan Lake (Image Credit: RDNO)
By Liam Verster
Unsuccessful Alternate Approval Process

Public opposes borrowing for Swan Lake Wastewater Recovery Project

Jul 7, 2026 | 3:12 PM

A project aimed at using reclaimed water for irrigation in the North Okanagan has a new hurdle to face.

The Regional District of North Okanagan had proposed borrowing up to $4.8 million to help fund the construction of the North Okanagan Wastewater Recovery Project (NOWRP).

The RDNO sought public approval for the borrowing using the Alternate Approval Process, through which the threshold of a minimum of 10 per cent of eligible electors opposed the proposal, and the plan to borrow the money was defeated.

With the Alternate Approval Process unsuccessful, the RDNO will be reviewing its options and next steps for funding this project.

The NOWRP aimed to treat reclaimed water and use it for irrigation purposes in the North Okanagan, while also protecting the water in Swan Lake.

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The project was estimated to cost $36.9 million, with plans for that to be covered with $24.3 million from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program Grant, $5.9 million from an Okanagan Basin Water Board Sewage Assistance Grant, $1.5 million from Township of Spallumcheen reserves, and $5.2 million from RDNO borrowing. 

Site preparation for construction of the NOWRP began Monday.

by Liam Verster
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