Work to secure a new drinking water production well for the Town of Golden began in 2023. In collaboration with the Interior Health Authority (IHA), technical experts, and staff, we set out to identify a site that could meet Golden’s water needs for the next 20 years or more.
Well 7: Dogwood Park Location
After reviewing municipally owned properties with the potential to produce sufficient water, our search led us south of the Kicking Horse River to an area with promising groundwater resources. Dogwood Park was ultimately selected as the most suitable location for preliminary drilling and testing.
Initial testing confirmed encouraging results. Well 7 showed high potential for water quantity and quality. However, a critical factor in assessing the safety of any groundwater source is the presence of a natural barrier (such as impermeable soil layers) that can prevent pathogens from entering the water supply. Unfortunately, Well 7’s drilling record did not show evidence of this kind of barrier.
In 2024, a hydrogeological assessment classified the well as “Groundwater At Risk of Containing Pathogens” (GARP) under the provincial Drinking Water Protection Regulation. This designation does not mean the water is unsafe, it means the well source requires treatment to ensure protection against possible bacteria, protozoa, and viruses.
To explore whether a protective soil layer might exist the Town undertook further investigation in early 2025, drilling three additional test holes. These confirmed the presence of highly transmissive gravel throughout Well 7’s capture zone, not the impermeable clays and silts needed to naturally filter pathogens. As a result, the well remains classified as GARP and disinfection to protect against pathogens requires the use of dual barrier treatment, including chlorination and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection.
What does this mean?
In alignment with IHA recommendations and provincial standards, the Town is proposing a dual-barrier disinfection system for Well 7 using a combination of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection and chlorination.
This approach meets the Provincial Treatment Objectives for Ground Water Supplies in B.C. and supports a safe, resilient water system.
We understand some residents may be concerned about the taste or smell of chlorine. Here’s how you will be able to minimize this at home:
- Leave an open jug of water overnight in the fridge.
- Use a Brita-style carbon filter pitcher or install a carbon filter on your tap.
Next Steps
Design work is now underway for the Well 7 station, incorporating both UV and chlorination equipment. Once complete, the design will be submitted to IHA for a construction permit. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026 following a public tender process. The Town is committed to balancing safety with water quality preferences. Disinfection equipment design as submitted for IHA approval will allow for the lowest possible chlorine dosage to be considered for approval by the regulator.
For more information about drinking water chlorination, visit https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/drinking-water-chlorination-facts