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
Opportunity for input on draft terms of reference for the environmental impact study
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.
We’re looking for your input on this document to inform how we undertake the environmental impact study. To provide your input on the terms of reference, please leave your feedback in the link below or email us at
nlwwtp@metrovancouver.org.
The engagement period is open until July 31, 2025 and we will be reporting out on the results in fall 2025. Further opportunities for input on the location of the outfall pipe and the environmental impact study will also be available in 2026.
Metro Vancouver is inviting the following groups to provide input:
- First Nations
- Metro Vancouver residents
- Fraser River users
- Community, environmental, and non-profit groups
- Government and regulatory agencies, member jurisdictions, and health authorities
What happens next?
Your comments will be logged and responded to by Metro Vancouver, compiled into an engagement summary report posted to the Metro Vancouver website, and provided to the provincial Ministry of Environment and Parks. The environmental impact study will inform a
Liquid Waste Management Plan amendment process that Metro Vancouver is undertaking for the outfall pipe and other remaining components of the Northwest Langley Wastewater Treatment Plant Program.
Provide your feedback