Environmental impact study to determine outfall location
Metro Vancouver is undertaking an environmental impact study to help determine the best location for the outfall pipe.
The objectives of the environmental impact study are to:
- Determine what the existing conditions are in the Fraser River, by using available data and conducting environmental sampling and analysis and riverbed mapping near the expanded treatment plant
- Identify monitoring locations within the river and determine what will be measured and how often, before and after discharge begins
- Look at how the water is currently used, or could be used, by people, plants, and animals
- Check to make sure the discharge will meet receiving water quality guidelines and clearly explain how those standards are being met to confirm the proposed treatment will not have negative effects on human health or the environment
- Confirm treated wastewater will meet water quality guidelines to protect areas of concern such as water intakes, beaches, shellfish harvesting areas, and spawning and rearing habitat
- Outline the measures that will be in place during construction to help protect the environment and reduce any potential impacts to people, plants, or animals
Community Engagement
Your Opinion Counts
A draft terms of reference for the environmental impact study describes the proposed scope of the study and recommended field programs and analysis to complete the study. The public engagement period on the draft terms of reference ended on July 31, 2025. Further opportunities for input on the location of the outfall pipe and the environmental impact study will also be available in 2026.