Sooke council is investigating the Capital Regional District's (CRD) potential plans to distribute biosolids on forested lands near the municipality.
Biosolids, derived from human sewage, are used globally to enrich soil but have not been applied to agriculture in the Capital Region.
Coun. Al Beddows persuaded councillors on Monday to request a presentation from the CRD to explain and answer questions about the region's proposed biosolids policy.
“It’s not just for Sooke residents, but for residents in the whole area,” Beddows said, underlining the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process.
The CRD produced more than 2,900 tonnes of biosolids last year, with most disposed of at the Hartland Landfill and a portion sent to a quarry near Nanaimo.
This year, the CRD board approved a three-tiered approach to its long-term biosolids management plan.
The first tier — and preferred long-term solution — is establishing an advanced thermal processing plant at Hartland Landfill that converts biosolids into biochar or biofuel.
The second tier, to be employed when the processing facility is unavailable, includes out-of-region options for biosolids, such as mine and quarry reclamation projects, forest fertilization, and alternative-fuel combustion — a current practice at a cement manufacturing facility in Richmond.
The third tier considers options within the CRD’s borders when the first two tiers are unworkable, including industrial land reclamation, forest fertilization, and cover systems at Hartland Landfill.
Beddows' push for clarity follows concerns from the Otter Point, Shirley, Jordan River Residents and Ratepayers Association (OPSRRA), which hosted meetings revealing fears about biosolids contaminating watersheds and aquifers.
“There is no safe land application of biosolids,” said OPSRRA president Chris Moss. “Once done, this cannot be reversed and would lead to dramatic changes in our region.”
Juan de Fuca Electoral Area director Al Wickheim also opposes land application. Beddows noted that biosolids are unlikely to be applied locally, as the province prefers long-term uses like energy production.
“We just want to see where the CRD is going with it,” Beddows said, calling for transparency to reassure the public.
The CRD has not formally responded to Sooke council's request for a presentation. However, CRD spokespersons have indicated that their approach to biosolids management prioritizes environmental safety and community health.
