Ae aerial shot overlooking Swan Lake. (Image Credit: North Okanagan Wastewater Project website)

By Liam Verster

Water Recovery Project

Progress being made on long-awaited North Okanagan water project

Aug 21, 2026 | 12:06 PM

The new North Okanagan Water Recovery Project (NOWRP) is moving ahead.

In 2015, the Regional District of North Okanagan, Township of Spallumcheen and Okanagan Indian Band agreed to build the NOWRP.

The project would bring community sewer service to the Swan Lake area, provide reclaimed water for farm irrigation, and reduce impacts aging septic systems have on the lake.

“This project is super important for our area. It provides much-needed water for our local agriculture producers and relieves pressures on local aquifers,” said Christine Fraser, Mayor of the Township of Spallumcheen.

“This additional water supply is gold for our farmers. The benefits of this system being in place will be felt by the region for generations. Seeing construction begin is the culmination of more than a decade of hard work, and I am grateful to see this important project moving forward.”

Water Recovery Project

Progress being made on long-awaited North Okanagan water project

30m ago

Election 2026

Kevin Acton looking to serve fifth term as Mayor of Lumby

45m ago

Wildfire Update

Bradley Creek wildfire evacuation orders partially lifted

1h ago

Located at a site on L&A Cross Road within Spallumcheen, construction of the NOWRP began in July with the issuance of a provincial Municipal Wastewater Regulation permit, and the RDNO said work was properly underway with construction of the sewer and water reclamation system Friday, August 21.

It was expected the facility and system would be fully operational by early 2028.

“This project means a healthier Swan Lake and an opportunity for future development in a responsible and healthy way for the local eco-system,” Bob Fleming, RDNO Electoral Area B Director, stated

“The economic and environmental benefits to the area will be huge. I’m excited to see construction starting up in Spallumcheen as it marks a major project milestone and a positive step forward for our community.”

The total cost of the project was estimated at $49.6-million, funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program ($24.3M), provincial grants ($9.5M), Okanagan Basin Water Board’s Sewerage Facilities Assistance Fund ($7.5M), and Spallumhceen reserve funds ($1.5M). The final costs will be confirmed once the RDNO tenders its portion of the work in the fall.

“This project reflects the kind of long-term thinking our region needs,” Amanda Shatzko, RDNO Electoral Area C Director, noted.

“Protecting Swan Lake while securing a reliable water supply for local farmers strengthens our environment, supports agriculture, and builds resilience throughout the North Okanagan as water scarcity becomes an increasing challenge. It’s exciting to see construction begin and this important investment move from planning to reality.”

by Liam Verster

View Comments