news

Cranbrook, BC (March 26, 2021) – Recent unseasonably warm spring temperatures is one of the main reasons why the unpleasant odours coming from the City of Cranbrook sewage lagoons are happening earlier than normal.

“Because of the cold evenings and warm afternoons, water layers within the lagoons, located at the north end of the City, are constantly flipping due to the dissolved oxygen and density of the water.  This causes organics to rise from the bottom to the surface creating the odour resembling kitty litter and rotten eggs,” says Jason Perrault, Public Works Manager with the City of Cranbrook.  “It is normal for this process to last between 6 to 8 weeks and is why the City is getting concerned calls from nearby residents and businesses over the past couple of weeks.” 

The City of Cranbrook is aware of the odours and understands the concerns coming from people living and working nearby. 

Upcoming projects – the Lagoon Dyke Upgrades and Bypass - that have already been approved to be completed over the next couple of years will greatly improve the treatment process and significantly reduce the unpleasant odours at the lagoons.