Improved water security is coming to the Sunshine Coast

Crucial conservation upgrades are being developed to solve the heightening water crisis due to drought on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast after an investment of more than $117 million from the federal government.

The project, led by the shíshálh Nation in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) and with support from Heidelberg Materials, will involve upgrading the existing water treatment plant and constructing two large-scale water storage reservoirs to manage water within the Chapman Creek watershed, which currently provides municipal water to approximately 76% of the population of the Sunshine Coast.

“This transformative project will alleviate the longstanding annual water shortages facing the Sunshine Coast that are becoming increasingly severe with a changing climate. This ground-breaking shíshálh nation-led project will be built and operated in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Regional District and ensure the availability of water for more than three quarters of Sunshine Coast residents even in times of drought. I am proud that the federal government is providing a historic $117 million investment to make this essential project a reality. It is an innovative model to advance reconciliation by working together to solve one of the most pressing issues in our community,” said Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky Country, on behalf of the Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.

In the past, the Sunshine Coast has implemented tough water restrictions due to extreme drought conditions. Once complete, these new reservoirs will benefit the SCRD, including the shíshálh Nation, by providing a more reliable and sustainable water supply during periods of water scarcity.

“We know when we work with all levels of government and partners we can improve our communities for the better. The shíshálh Nation is excited and proud to be working in partnership with the SCRD to address the ongoing water crisis. We are grateful for ongoing support from and collaboration with Heidelberg Materials, District of Sechelt, and Town of Gibsons. Climate change is impacting all of our lives and we must adapt. Through this project we are planning for future generations in innovative and thoughtful ways. We will work with climate change collecting rain during winter storms and using it in the summer – we will change with the times. Our ancestors taught us to use resources in sustainable and caring ways and we will do just that. We are grateful for the tremendous support of the Federal and Provincial governments which make historic project possible. We look forward to continuing to build a brighter future together,” said Lenora Joe, Ihe hiwus (Chief) for the shíshálh Nation.