Riondel Water System

Size and number of connections

The system services 196 active connections.

Location

The system is located in Riondel, on the east shore of Kootenay Lake. Riondel is within RDCK Electoral Area A. 

Source 

The Riondel water system derives source water from Hendryx and Indian Creeks. Low, concrete dams with diversion inlets have been built on both these creeks. As with all surface sources, these creeks are susceptible to contamination from environmental influences. Both supply areas are designated as Community Watersheds.

System description

This system was first developed in the mid-1900s to service the Bluebell mine site. It was converted to an RDCK service in 1972.

Treatment

 A chlorination station ensures that water serving Riondel residents is disinfected before delivery. Because no filtration capability exists, however, the Riondel community is intermittently subject to a Boil Water Advisory when turbidity levels are high.

Storage

The system includes a 100,000 gallon steel reservoir. The capacity of the tank meets existing local water demands and may be able to support moderate growth.

Distribution system

A large portion of the distribution system was replaced in 1978. It includes approximately 4.6 kilometres of steel and PVC mainlines. Reports suggest that this infrastructure remains in good condition.

Fire-fighting

Existing fire-fighting infrastructure includes 12 hydrants and two standpipes. The capacity of the reservoir meets current guidelines for fire protection.

Significant issues

Because of seasonal turbidity issues, trihalomethane (THM) levels in the Riondel system may occasionally exceed those recommended by the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines.  THM is a by-product of the disinfection process that is caused by the interaction of chlorine and organic materials. 

Plans for future upgrades

In order to address turbidity issues and lower THM levels for the Riondel system, a water treatment plant is planned for delivery and installation in 2011. The project will involve upgrading the chlorination system, installing filtration, adding devices to control reservoir levels, and introducing a SCADA system to allow for remote plant monitoring and operation. This project will help prevent future Boil Water Advisories, and bring Riondel’s water into compliance with the Interior Health Authority’s drinking water objectives.

Governance

This system is currently owned and operated by the RDCK. The RDCK receives community-specific advice and policy guidance from the Riondel Commission of Management. The commission also coordinates the operation and maintenance of the system.