The Province is establishing a Technical Working Group to conduct a scientific review on the use of biosolids in the Nicola Valley.

The scientific review will focus on:

• Developing a monitoring and testing regime for biosolids in Nicola Valley;
• Reviewing the effectiveness of the current requirement for a Land Application Plan; and
• Reviewing research on how biosolids impact wildlife and determine if any monitoring or testing is required.

The Technical Working Group will include technical and scientific staff from the Ministry of Environment, First Nations Health Authority and Interior Health Authority, academia and industry professionals.

This review will inform future measures to address issues and concerns regarding biosolids identified by the Nicola Valley First Nations and local residents. It will also take into consideration the restrictions already in place under the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation (OMRR), which is designed to protect human health and the environment.

An advisory committee is being established and will oversee the Technical Working Group and make recommendations to Minister of Environment Mary Polak. Invitations to participate on the Advisory Committee will be sent this week to:

• Thompson-Nicola Regional District
• First Nations
• First Nations Health Authority
• Community Group Representatives
• Interior Health Authority
• Ministry of Agriculture
• BC Water and Waste Association
• BC Cattleman's Association

Recommendations stemming from the review are expected later this fall. The findings of the review will be made public.

Quotes:

Mary Polak, Minister of Environment ─

“Our government is committed to continue working closely with all parties to ensure concerns are heard and addressed and that we ensure the application of biosolids is done safely for both the residents of Nicola Valley and the environment. I would also like to thank MLA Jackie Tegart for all of her hard work on this matter.” 

Jackie Tegart, MLA for Fraser-Nicola ─

“This process indicates that government recognizes the importance of the issue to the Nicola Valley, and will provide the opportunity to review and give input. Although it has taken some time, this is a good first step as we continue to work on this very complex issue.”

Learn More:

BC Newsroom - Ministry of Environment: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/environment-1

For more information on biosolids: http://ow.ly/OpDMU

Media Contacts:

Ministry of Environment Communications
250 953-3834