Walkerton, ON — The Walkerton Clean Water Centre (WCWC) is excited to recently complete the installation of two new ultrafiltration membrane pilot units, generously donated by Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions, in its Technology Demonstration Facility.
The treatment technology upgrade is a continued collaboration between WCWC and Veolia, which has supported the Technology Demonstration Facility since its inception. Veolia donated membrane filtration pilot units to the Technology Demonstration Facility in 2006, when the facility first opened, to support Ontario’s drinking water professionals.
“Across our partnership that spans nearly 20 years, we’ve seen the important work the WCWC does to explore water treatment for underserved rural and First Nations communities and train the next generation of water experts,” said Greg Brickett, Vice President of the ZeeWeed Business Line at Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions. “ZeeWeed membranes can help bring more clean water to crucial regions in Ontario and beyond, and it’s fulfilling to see our investment have a positive impact.”
Brian Bates, WCWC’s CEO, commented that “this addition increases our piloting capabilities as the newer units are smaller, facilitating deployment to more remote communities. The smaller size also frees up more floor space in our Technology Demonstration Facility so that we can add “newer” technologies like ozone and set up additional experience-based training stations related to water distribution.” Bates goes on to state, “these types of public-private partnerships enable WCWC to deliver training on the most up-to-date technologies for Ontario’s operators without additional funds from the Ontario government, further safeguarding Ontario’s drinking water supply. We are very appreciative of Veolia’s generous donation.”
WCWC’s Technology Demonstration Facility serves as a platform for its pilot testing program, which provides site-specific information on source water quality, treatment performance and alternative treatment technologies to address drinking water system vulnerabilities. The Centre is also a popular resource for information for drinking water professionals. Technical tours for training participants, postsecondary and high school students enable knowledge-sharing about the technologies and operational requirements necessary to ensure that drinking water is safe.
“Ensuring Ontarians have access to clean and safe drinking water continues to be a top priority for our government,” said Andrea Khanjin, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “I want to thank Veolia for their continued support for the Walkerton Clean Water Centre and the valuable programs it provides. This important public private collaboration is helping to safeguard our drinking water supply today and for years to come by supporting the delivery of pilot programs and training based on the latest tools and technologies.”
“Through this very welcome donation, Veolia is equipping the Walkerton Clean Water Centre with the latest tools to train the next generation of professionals, educate the public on day-to-day operations and technologies, and engage in pilot projects that will support the long-term health and safety of Ontario’s drinking water supply,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce.
WCWC says it is excited for what the future holds. In addition to upgraded technology and a full schedule of pilot testing projects, it is prioritizing the development of self-directed e-learning courses. These courses will allow participants from Ontario and beyond to study at their own pace, while improving the affordability, flexibility and accessibility of training.
