Chief Clifford Daniels stated that the public is in No Danger, and we will find out how the leak happened.  “There was no sign of tampering of the discharge valve, so the site is being cleared of snow and ice to gain a better view of the concrete decant structure and steel valve.”

We want to assure the public that this does not affect the quality of the water.  Cell #2 leaked into the Cell #3 of the wastewater treatment, and Staff was planning for approval for a wastewater discharge from Cell #2 into the pond in mid-May.  This is done yearly, and the discharge, of the wastewater slowly makes its’ way through several kilometres of ponds and marsh before it reaches the river.  That entire process takes about a year and ensures that the water reaching the river is safe.

The leak, although unplanned and uncontrolled, was okay to release into the wetlands as per normal process.

Currently, we have investigation of the site, and, wastewater samples were taken and sent out for analysis to ensure public safety, laboratory tests came back confirming that the wastewater samples were below the minimum limits required for discharge. 

Chief Clifford Daniels also noted that “In February, Behchokǫ̀ Council received a letter from Wek'èezhìi Land & Water Board (WLWB) about ensuring that Behchokǫ̀ properly met the terms and conditions of our water license.  

Since that time, Behchokǫ̀ staff have been working closely with WLWB to ensure that the deficiencies will be brought into compliance.  Behchokǫ̀ has also contracted two engineering firms to assist staff with complex reports and studies.  The summer of 2020 will see several related environmental capital projects completed, both in Rae and Edzo.”

It will take a few more weeks before engineers can clearly determine the source of the leak, but the Behchokǫ̀ staff continue to work closely with the various agencies to ensure that all wastewater treatment continues to be safe.

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