New Grasswood Wastewater Treatment Plant Opens in Corman Park

UPDATE: The newly constructed Grasswood Wastewater Treatment Facility has just opened its doors, marking a significant development for ratepayers in south Corman Park. This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Saskatchewan and is set to transform wastewater management in the region.

On August 27, 2023, officials from the RM of Corman Park, alongside members of the English River First Nation (ERFN) and its development arm, the Des Nedhe Group, celebrated the grand opening of this innovative plant. Funded by a substantial $27.3 million financing agreement from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, the facility is designed to serve residential, commercial, and industrial ratepayers, enhancing local infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Currently operational, the facility is in the process of connecting its lines. For now, sewage is being transported by truck, but within the next six months, the plant will begin receiving wastewater through pipes from nearby residential developments, including Edgemont East. Sean Willy, president of Des Nedhe, emphasized the urgency of this project, stating, “This is just the start. Saskatchewan’s growing faster than we all think.”

The opening of the Grasswood facility signifies years of planning and dedication from the English River First Nation. Chief Alfred Dawatzare expressed pride in the project, reflecting on the long journey to bring it to fruition. “It took us so many years. A lot of times we took a lot of heat for it at the reserve level, but we know this is going to benefit our reserve,” he said.

In his remarks, Willy highlighted the progressive nature of the English River First Nation, pointing out that they are often overlooked despite their leadership in economic development within Saskatchewan. “What always held us back was the city was never going to build infrastructure this way,” he noted, explaining that the decision was made to create a facility that utilizes Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology, a pioneering approach in the province.

This cutting-edge technology employs membrane filtration to separate solids from water, ensuring a more efficient treatment process. Willy stated, “Moving people off of septic tanks and fields in South Corman Park will help the environment and also add value to the land in that area.”

The partnership between the English River First Nation and local authorities has been crucial in this endeavor. Joe Hargrave, the reeve of Corman Park, praised the collaboration, stating, “This facility was needed. It turns this into an urban area.” His support underscores the community’s commitment to sustainable development and infrastructure improvement.

As the Grasswood Wastewater Treatment Facility begins operations, it symbolizes a significant step forward for environmental stewardship and community development in Saskatchewan. The local population can look forward to improved services and a cleaner environment as this project unfolds.

For residents and stakeholders, the next steps involve monitoring the facility’s integration into the community and the expected enhancements in wastewater management. The ongoing discussions and partnerships will be essential as the RM of Corman Park and the English River First Nation continue to work together on future developments.

Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking project as it progresses.