Abbotsford/Mission Water & Sewer Services Utilities Environment Annual Report

Transcription

1 Abbotsford/Mission Water & Sewer Services Utilities Environment Annual Report EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Utilities Environment Division is responsible for the management and operation of: Source Control Program: The purpose of the Abbotsford/Mission Water and Sewer Commission Source Control Program (WSCSCP) is to reduce the amount of contaminants that industries, businesses, institutions and households discharge into the sanitary sewer system. Reduction of contaminants discharged to the sanitary sewer will protect the sewage collection system, the treatment facilities, the biosolids quality, the receiving environment, and the health and safety of the public and sewer workers. The City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No and the District of Mission Sewer Bylaw No serve as the main regulatory instrument for the WSCSCP. Proposed bylaw revisions by WSCSCP staff in 2010 are expected to be implemented by the summer of The proposed changes will help industrial customers complete wastewater discharge permit application forms as well as provide a more organized collection of information. Wastewater discharge permits are issued to industries, businesses, or other operations that discharge significant volumes of non-domestic wastewater into the sanitary sewer, or that discharge wastewater having the potential to contain high concentrations of contaminants. In 2010, forty wastewater discharge permits were initiated within the combined area of City of Abbotsford and the District of Mission. A risk assessment was completed in 2008 of the prohibited and restricted wastes listed in the sewer bylaw for each municipality. The risk assessment resulted in metal finishing businesses, hospitals, dental offices, and photo imaging businesses being identified as potential dischargers of specific contaminants of concern. Monitoring programs were developed and implemented in 2009 for metal finishing businesses and hospitals operating within the City of Abbotsford and the District of Mission. Monitoring in 2010 resulted in two metal finishing businesses and two hospitals being sampled. In 2010, 234 samples were collected from metal finishing businesses and 71% of the samples complied with Bylaw requirements, resulting in three non compliance letters being issued. There were 256 samples collected from hospitals and 100% of the samples complied with the bylaw requirements. Codes of practice regulate non-domestic waste discharged to the sanitary sewer from commercial, industrial, and institutional business sectors. Codes of practice set out minimum waste treatment, equipment maintenance, and record keeping requirements for various operations. Implementation of codes of practice for dental operations and for photo imaging operations occurred in June/July 2009, with treatment works required by January 1, In 2010, twenty-five dental and twenty-four photo imaging operations were inspected. Of the twenty-five dental operations inspected, 1% were in full compliance with the code of practice. Of the twenty-four photo imaging operations inspected, 63% were in full compliance with the code of practice. The development of codes of practice for automotive operations, vehicle wash operations and dry cleaning operations was completed in Implementation of the three new codes of practice is scheduled for 2011 pending council and stakeholder review. WSCSCP staff have observed a noticeable decrease in concentration levels of various heavy metals including mercury and silver in the JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids over the past year. It would appear that the implementation of the codes of practice for the dental and photo imaging operations

2 may already be having a positive effect on the reduction of these contaminants in the sanitary sewer system. The ph limits listed in each municipal sewer bylaw (City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No , and District of Mission Sewer Bylaw No ) are based on local, provincial, federal and international standards to protect the public, municipal staff, pipelines, the treatment plant and the environment. Levels of ph exceeding the Bylaw limits of 5.5 to 9.5 pose a serious concern. Review of historical monitoring data by WSCSCP staff discovered an ongoing concern with wastewater ph levels discharged into the sanitary sewer. In 2010, nine hundred and four samples were collected for ph analysis. Of the nine hundred and four samples collected, 62% were in compliance with the bylaw requirements. The JAMES Treatment Plant currently has two separate sanitary sewer use agreements with the City of Sumas and the Township of Langley. As part of the each agreement, regular monitoring of wastewater discharged from each source is required. Of the 495 samples collected at these locations in 2010, 98% of the samples complied with the bylaw requirements. High loadings of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in wastewater entering the JAMES Treatment Plant can adversely affect the treatment processes and can contribute to increased treatment plant expansion needs. To mitigate these effects, wastewater-monitoring programs for industrial discharges are undertaken to ensure costs recovery for treating this type of waste. In 2010, the City of Abbotsford had twenty-four locations routinely monitored as part of the BOD and TSS Waste Program. The twenty-four locations monitored discharged a total volume of 1,631,929 m 3 of wastewater, 1,599,172 kg of BOD, and 712,284 kg of TSS resulting in $917,438 in BOD & TSS Waste fees collected. WSCSCP staff encountered nine separate unauthorized discharge events in Details of each event were documented and corrective actions taken by WSCSCP staff in each case. Biosolids Management Program: The ongoing development of existing and potential biosolids projects, products and markets is essential in sustaining the JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Management Program. All biosolids projects and products are developed in a manner that supports a commitment to protecting the public and the environment. The pasteurization process at the JAMES Treatment Plant is the key treatment step in enabling the production of Class A Biosolids. The Provincial Organic Matter Recycling Regulation (OMRR) applies to the production, distribution, storage, sale and use or land application of biosolids. In 2007, a Biosolids Utilization Study evaluated the biosolids strategies and identified continued mine reclamation and increased production of a top soil growing medium as the most viable strategies. In 2010, 8,244 tonnes of Class A biosolids was produced from the JAMES Treatment Plant, and there were 5,835 wet tonnes (70%) of biosolids transported for use in mine reclamation and 2,409 wet tonnes (30%) used in the production of a top soil growing medium (Val-E-Gro TM ). The cost to utilize the JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids in mine reclamation activities is at the expense of the biosolids producer and includes transportation, incorporation/application, environmental management, and site management. The 2010 mine reclamation costs were $301,606. By using biosolids in the production of Val-E-Gro TM, biosolids are diverted from more costly mine reclamation activities. In 2010, the total costs savings for every yard of biosolids diverted from mine reclamation used in the production of Val-E-Gro TM was $39/yrd.

3 The Val-E-Gro TM soil initiative represents years of development and commitment to quality and performance in biosolids residuals management. Source control, advanced processing technology, high standards, rigorous testing and monitoring, and professional expertise support the Biosolids Management Program. In 2010, a total of 7,159 yards of Val-E-Gro TM was sold and $77,460 was generated in revenue. In 2010, a distribution agreement with the soil distributor (Yardworks Supply Ltd.) was renewed to distribute and sell Val-E-Gro TM products as well as improve the production, marketability, and sales of Val-E-Gro in cooperation with the City of Abbotsford. On behalf of the Abbotsford/Mission Water & Sewer Commission, staff accepted the 2010 Excellence in Biosolids Management Award from the Northwest Biosolids Management Association and the 2010 Applied Sciences Technologists and Technicians Award for Green Innovation. Class IV Wastewater Plant Laboratory The JAMES Treatment Plant operates and monitors liquid and solid discharges under the Municipal Sewage Regulation (MSR) and the Organic Matter Recycling Regulations (OMRR). The JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory performs testing as required by each regulation and performs a variety of special projects and other testing for plant performance requirements. The JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory is certified under the Canadian Association for Laboratory Accreditation (CALA). In 2010, the JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory analyzed 4,619 samples and produced 13,372 test results. The JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory also submitted 702 samples to external laboratories for analysis producing an additional 10,110 test results. Analysis performed at the JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory include ph, ammonia, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, total solids, volatile solids, settleable solids, volatile acids, fecal coliforms and total chlorine. External laboratory projects included the following projects: Weekly Influent & Effluent, Bimonthly Influent & Effluent, Effluent Toxicity, Primary Effluent, Trickling Filter Effluent, JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Water, Weekly Biosolids, Biosolids Coliforms, Monthly Biosolids and UV Pilot Project. In 2010, efforts were taken by staff to develop and implement better quality assurance and control practices in the laboratory. A Quality Assurance Manual was developed that provides a written plan of operation for the JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory that ensures the accuracy, precision, and reliability of laboratory analyses and that data produced in the laboratory meets or exceeds user requirements. In addition, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all analyses performed in the JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory were also developed and implemented to ensure consistency with all analytical procedures and to document variations from the procedures referenced in Standard Methods.

4 Table of Contents A. SOURCE CONTROL PROGRAM INTRODUCTION JAMES Treatment Plant Sewage Collection Area & Annual Flow SOURCE CONTROL PROGRAM ACTIVITIES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Proposed Bylaw Revisions Website Development Aboveground Sampling Kiosks Wastewater Discharge Permits Codes of Practice Background Development & Implementation Summary Dental Operations Photo Imaging Operations Automotive Operations & Vehicle Wash Operations Dry Cleaning Operations Inspection Summary Future Plans for Development Contaminant Reduction Targets Metal Finishing Industry Hospitals Wastewater ph Key Manholes BOD & TSS Waste Program Monitoring & Enforcement Metal Finishing Industry Hospitals Key Manholes Wastewater ph BOD & TSS Waste Program Unauthorized Discharge Events BUDGETING & EXPENDITURES PROGRAM PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT NEXT STEPS B. BIOSOLIDS RESIDUALS MANAGEMENT INTRODUCTION Process Overview REGULATORY CONTEXT FOR BIOSOLIDS PRODUCTION Organic Matter Recycling Regulation BENEFICIAL END USES FOR BIOSOLIDS Mine Reclamation Background Trucking & Transfers Incorporation / Application Mine Reclamation Costs Proposed 2011 Reclamation Activities Val-E-Gro Fabricated Growing Medium Background Production & On-Site Storage Cost Savings...29 i

5 3.2.4 Sales Marketing & Distribution Website Development BUDGETING & EXPENDITURES PROGRAM PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT NEXT STEPS C. CLASS IV WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT LABORATORY INTRODUCTION CALA Proficiency LABORATORY ACTIVITIES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Internal Laboratory Analysis ph Analysis Ammonia Analysis BOD Analysis COD Analysis TSS Analysis Total Solids Analysis Volatile Solids Analysis Settleable Solids Analysis Acid/Alkalinity of Digested Sludge Analysis Fecal Coliforms Analysis Total Chlorine Analysis External Laboratory Projects Weekly Influent & Effluent Project Bimonthly Influent & Effluent Project Effluent Toxicity Project Primary Effluent Project Trickling Filter Effluent Project JAMES PCC Lab Water Project Weekly Biosolids Project Biosolids Coliforms Project Monthly Biosolids Project UV Pilot Project BUDGETING & EXPENDITURES PROGRAM PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT...56 ii

6 List of Figures Figure 1: Mercury Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids - 3 Year Summary ( ) 7 Figure 2: Mercury Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 3: Silver Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids - 2 Year Summary ( ) 8 Figure 4: Silver Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 5: Chromium Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 6: Copper Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 7: Nickel Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 8: Arsenic Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 9: Zinc Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 10: Total Annual BOD & TSS Waste Discharge Volumes ( ) 15 Figure 11: BOD & TSS Waste Program - Annual BOD Mass Loading ( ) 16 Figure 12: BOD & TSS Waste Program - Annual TSS Mass Loading ( ) 16 Figure 13: JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Processing Path 24 Figure 14: OMRR Product Requirements 25 Figure 15: Annual Yards of Val-E-Gro TM Purchased ( ) 30 Figure 16: Annual Val-E-Gro TM Sales ( ) 30 Figure 17: Average Monthly ph in JAMES Treatment Plant Combined Influent ( ) 38 Figure 18: Average Monthly ph in JAMES Treatment Plant Final Effluent ( ) 38 Figure 19: JAMES Treatment Plant Effluent Ammonia Toxicity Curve Figure 20: Arsenic Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 21: Cadmium Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 22: Chromium Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 23: Cobalt Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 24: Copper Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 25: Lead Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 26: Mercury Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 27: Molybdenum Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 28: Nickel Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 29: Selenium Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 30: Silver Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Figure 31: Zinc Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids List of Tables Table 1: JAMES Treatment Plant Annual Sanitary Sewer Flows Table 2: Wastewater Discharge Permits Table 3: Approved Wastewater Discharge Permits Table 4: Summary of Codes of Practice Adoption & Effective Dates 6 Table 5: Automotive Operations Survey Results Table 6: Dry Cleaning Survey Results Table 7: Summary of Code of Practice Inspection Activity Table 8: Code of Practice Inspection Compliance Summary Table 9: BOD & TSS Waste Charges Table 10: Metal Finishing Industry Monitoring Table 11: Hospitals Monitoring Table 12: Key Manhole Monitoring Table 13: Wastewater ph Compliance Monitoring (External Lab Analysis) Table 14: Wastewater ph Compliance Monitoring (Field Analysis) Table 15: Wastewater ph Non-Compliance Issues Table 16: BOD & TSS Waste Program Monitoring Table 17: Unauthorized Discharge Events iii

7 Table 18: Source Control Budgeting & Expenditures Table 19: Source Control Budget Table 20: OMRR Permitted Uses for Biosolids 25 Table 21: Annual Volumes of JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids by End Use ( ) 26 Table 22: Trucking / Transfer & Stockpile Summary Table 23: Mine Reclamation Costs Summary Table 24: Val-E-Gro TM Soil Production Component Cost Structure Table 25: Annual Val-E-Gro TM Sales Summary ( ) 30 Table 26: Biosolids Management Budgeting & Expenditures Table 27: Biosolids Management Budget Table 28: Proficiency Testing (PT) Results Table 29: Annual Laboratory Sample Submissions Summary Table 30: Annual Laboratory Analysis Summary Table 31: Summary of Standard Operating Procedures for the JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory 36 Table 32: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab ph Analysis Summary Table 33: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Ammonia Analysis Summary Table 34: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab BOD Analysis Summary Table 35: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab cbod Analysis Summary Table 36: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab COD Analysis Summary Table 37: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab TSS Analysis Summary Table 38: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab TS Analysis Summary Table 39: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab VS Analysis Summary Table 40: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Settleable Solids Analysis Summary Table 41: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Total Alkalinity Analysis Summary Table 42: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Volatile Acids Alkalinity Analysis Summary Table 43: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Volatile Acids Analysis Summary Table 44: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Fecal Coliforms Analysis Summary Table 45: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Total Chlorine Analysis Summary Table 46: Weekly Influent & Effluent Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 47: Bimonthly Influent & Effluent Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 48: Effluent Toxicity Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 49: Primary Effluent Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 50: Trickling Filter Effluent Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 51: JAMES Treatment Plant Lab Water Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 52: Weekly Biosolids Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 53: Biosolids Coliforms Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 54: Monthly Biosolids Project Summary (External Laboratory Data) Table 55: JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory Budgeting & Expenditures Table 56: JAMES Treatment Plant Laboratory Budget List of Photographs Photograph 1: Sampling Kiosk (Outside) 4 Photograph 2: Sampling Kiosk (Inside) 4 Photograph 3: Highland Valley Copper Mine (HVC) 26 Photograph 4: Main HVC Stockpile Area 27 Photograph 5: HVC Biosolids Transferred and Stockpiled at an Application Site 27 Photograph 6: Production Structure 29 Photograph 7: Storage Structure 29 iv

8 A. SOURCE CONTROL PROGRAM 1.0 Introduction The primary objective of the Abbotsford/Mission Water and Sewer Commission Source Control Program (WSCSCP) is to reduce the amounts of contaminants that industries, businesses, institutions and households discharge into the sanitary sewer system. These discharges may contain significant quantities of contaminants and other substances that can affect the collection and treatment system as well as the health of workers, the public, and the aquatic environment. Some contaminants are removed from the solids through treatment processes and end up in the biosolids, a condition that can restrict the beneficial use or result in costly remediation and recycling efforts. The efficiency of the treatment and its costs closely relates to the quantity and quality of the wastewater treated. Consequently, an effective source control program is an economical and sustainable means of managing wastewater treatment. The objectives of the WSCSCP are to: Ensure that the health and safety of sewage workers and the general public is not put at risk due to the presence of wastewater contaminants; Protect the aquatic receiving environment adjacent to the JAMES Treatment Plant sewage outfall; Protect the JAMES Treatment Plant against corrosion, blockage and other harmful effects related to the presence of wastewater contaminants; Protect the JAMES Treatment Plant against treatment process upsets due to high contaminant loadings; Protect the quality of the biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant to allow unrestricted options for beneficial use and recycling; and Promote responsible pollution prevention practices including reduction, reuse, recycling, recovery and residuals management. 1.1 JAMES Treatment Plant Sewage Collection Area & Annual Flow The Abbotsford/Mission Water and Sewer Commission (WSC) is the governing body of the joint water and wastewater systems in the City of Abbotsford and the District of Mission. The joint wastewater system is known as the JAMES Treatment Plant and is located at 5959 Gladwin Rd., Abbotsford, BC. The JAMES Treatment Plant services the City of Abbotsford, District of Mission, East Langley (Aldergrove and Gloucester), and the City of Sumas (See Appendix A for a map showing the JAMES Treatment Plant service area). Refer to Table 1 for the annual 2010 sanitary sewer flows from each part of the JAMES Treatment Plant service area. Table 1: JAMES Treatment Plant Annual Sanitary Sewer Flows Municipality: 2010 Annual Flow (m 3 ): 2009 Annual Flow (m 3 ): % Change: City of Abbotsford 16,240,936 18,644,701-13% District of Mission 4,085,522 4,242,071-4% Township of Langley - East (Aldergrove & Gloucester) 1,801,833 1,946,762-7% City of Sumas 258, ,907-8% Total: 22,386,966 25,114,441-11% 1

9 The 2010 service population based on loading is 274,800 people (comprised of a residential population of 163,520 people and the balance from commercial, industrial and institutional population equivalent loading). By 2031, this predicted equivalent service population is 450,000 people (including a residential population of 220,000). The JAMES Treatment Plant currently produces approximately 8,000 wet tonnes of Class A biosolids per year and this volume will likely double over the next 25 years. 2.0 Source Control Program Activities & Accomplishments The 2010 WSCSCP activities and accomplishments are discussed under the following broad groups of activities: Proposed Bylaw Revisions; Website Development; Aboveground Sampling Kiosks; Wastewater Discharge Permits; Codes of Practice; Contaminant Reduction Targets; Key Manhole Monitoring; BOD & TSS Waste Program; Monitoring and Enforcement; and Unauthorized Discharge Events. 2.1 Proposed Bylaw Revisions Bylaw revisions proposed by WSCSCP staff in 2010 are expected to be implemented in summer of 2011 for both the City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw (Bylaw No ) and the District of Mission Sewer Bylaw (No ). The purpose of the proposed changes is to provide a more comprehensive and up to date bylaw. Changes were proposed to the application forms for wastewater discharge permits found under Schedules G and H of the bylaws. The proposed changes for these forms will allow for more ease for the industrial customer in completing the application form while providing a more organized collection of information. Codes of practice for automotive operations, vehicle wash operations and dry cleaning operations were also proposed for addition to the bylaws. Additional proposed changes included minor rewording and clarification/addition of definitions. Bylaws currently in place by the Capital Regional District (CRD) and Metro Vancouver were referenced in developing these proposed changes. WSCSCP staff plan to hold a stakeholder meeting in early 2011 to present the proposed changes prior to implementation, and to propose additional changes as necessary. 2.2 Website Development WSCSCP staff proposed changes to the City of Abbotsford website to include information pertaining to various areas including the WSCSCP, trucked liquid waste, biosolids and Val-E-Gro TM. The purpose of including this information on the website was to provide easy access to the information for industrial customers and the general public. Prior to the proposed changes, there was no information available on the website regarding this information. 2

10 The proposed changes to the website were implemented in mid-2010 and included the following sections related to the WSCSCP: General overview of the WSCSCP; Information pertaining to codes of practice (including specific sections for dental operations and photo imaging operations, frequently asked questions, scanned copies of brochures, and example logbook worksheets); Information pertaining to wastewater discharge permits (including copies of application forms); and Information pertaining to the BOD & TSS Waste Program. The above-listed information can be accessed on the City of Abbotsford website at through the following subdirectories: Departments, Engineering, Water & Wastewater. The District of Mission is currently working on updating their website and it is expected to be updated in mid-2011 to include the same information. 2.3 Aboveground Sampling Kiosks In 2010, WSCSCP staff proposed changes to the existing sampling method used for obtaining samples of wastewater from the sanitary sewer. The current method for collecting 24-hour composite samples involved placing a portable composite sampler inside a manhole below the ground surface (the model 3700C ISCO samplers are currently used). A sample line with a strainer was placed in the wastewater flow and ran up to the sampler where the wastewater sample was collected in a 10L container (inside the sampler). The Sampling Technician manually lifted the sampler into and out of the manhole in order to collect the wastewater sample and to program for collection of the next sample. Concerns with the current method of sample collection included the following: Risk of worker injury; Limited vacation/absence coverage options; Risk of damage to sampler; and Risk of explosion. When the sampler is full with a 10L sample, the combined weight of the sampler with the sample can be quite heavy; this can pose a challenge when lifting the sampler into and out of manholes. Some sampling locations also have very deep manholes so the Sampling Technician is sometimes required to lift the sampler a longer distance when retrieving samples. Currently 27 locations are monitored weekly, so the repetitive nature of lifting the samplers into and out of the manholes at each location over a weekly period poses a concern for injuries to the back. The current method for collecting samples also poses a concern regarding limited coverage options due to vacation time or absences by the Sampling Technician since not all WSCSCP staff are able to lift the samplers into and out of the manholes. At various sampling locations, there have been reoccurring issues with back ups in the sanitary sewer lines due to debris or poor (private) pump performance. These back ups can cause 3

11 wastewater in the sanitary sewer to collect or pool inside the below ground sampling manhole. Sometimes the level of wastewater accumulates inside the manhole and can reach a high enough level that it will submerse the sampler. The samplers being used have electronic parts and are not designed to be submersed in liquids for long periods of time. Increased maintenance and part replacement costs have resulted from the submersing of the samplers at these locations. When placing samplers in below ground sampling manholes, there is a potential for an explosive atmosphere in the presence of methane or hydrogen sulfide gases from the sewer. There is a very small risk that the use of the samplers in a confined space (as in a sampling manhole) could potentially result in ignition of the sewer gases and lead to an explosion. In order to address all of the concerns mentioned above, WSCSCP staff have proposed to convert all existing below ground sampling manholes into above ground sampling kiosks. The above ground sampling kiosks consist of an aluminum rectangular shaped lock box that is installed and mounted on a cement pad by the City. The approximate dimensions of a kiosk are 38 inches in height, 25 inches in depth, and 30 inches in width. A four-inch pipe will be typically buried below the ground connecting the kiosk and the existing sampling manhole. The buried pipe allows the sampler line to run from the sampler (inside the kiosk) to the existing sampling manhole and into the sanitary sewer. Converting all below ground sampling manholes to the above ground sampling kiosk system will eliminate heavy lifting, will allow for more options in vacation/absence coverage, will eliminate risks for sampler damage, and will eliminate risks for explosion. Metro Vancouver uses a similar system for collecting sanitary sewer wastewater samples and it seems to work well for them. Refer to Appendix B for a summary of the design specifications for one of the kiosks. Photographs 1 and 2 show an example of a location where the kiosk has already been installed. Photograph 1: Sampling Kiosk (Outside) Photograph 2: Sampling Kiosk (Inside) In 2010, WSCSCP staff evaluated all 27 sampling locations and prioritized each location based on the need for an above ground kiosk at each location (3 additional locations already had similar systems in place and did not require installation of a new aboveground kiosk). By December 31, 2010, one above ground kiosk was installed at a poultry processing facility. The remaining 26 locations are planned to be converted beginning in 2011 dependent upon allocated funding and resources. 2.4 Wastewater Discharge Permits Wastewater discharge permits are documents issued to industries and businesses under the City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No and under the District of Mission Sewer Bylaw No Wastewater discharge permits are issued to industries, businesses or other operations that discharge significant volumes of non-domestic wastewater, or wastewater 4

12 having the potential to contain high concentrations of contaminants into the sanitary sewer. Refer to Table 2 for a summary of wastewater discharge permits initiated and processed in Table 2: Wastewater Discharge Permits # of Permit Applications Initiated: # of Permits Approved: # of Permits Declined: # of Permits Applications Discontinued: # of Permit Applications In Progress: City of Abbotsford District of Mission Total: In 2010, thirty-eight wastewater discharge permits were initiated within the City of Abbotsford and two wastewater discharge permits were initiated within the District of Mission. Permit processing activities include reviewing applications and analytical data, attending follow up meetings and site visits, and ensuring regular phone and contact with permit applicants and permittees. When undertaking audit sampling or batch reporting, WSCSCP staff is also responsible for comparing audit results or self-monitored batch results with expected contaminant levels and bylaw limits. The thirty-two wastewater discharge permits approved in 2010 included a number of different businesses. Refer to Table 3 for a summary of wastewater discharge permits approved in Table 3: Approved Wastewater Discharge Permits # of Approved Wastewater Discharge Permits Facility Type: Abbotsford Mission Aircraft Maintenance & Washing 2 0 Bakery 0 0 Berry and/or Vegetable Processing 6 0 Biotechnology 1 0 Dairy Processing 1 0 Egg Processing 2 0 Groundwater Remediation 0 0 Hospital 1 0 Industrial Laundry Processing 1 0 Miscellaneous Food Processing 3 0 Metal Finishing Operation 1 1 Poultry and/or Seafood Processing 4 0 Poultry Hatchery 2 0 Vehicle Wash Operation 1 0 Water Main or Storm Sewer Repair/Installation 6 0 Total: 31 1 One wastewater discharge permit was declined in 2010 and included the following: One permit was declined for a water main repair project due to limited capacity in the sanitary sewer system (wastewater was treated and discharged to the City of Abbotsford storm sewer instead). The three wastewater discharge permit applications discontinued in 2010 included the following: One permit for a metal finishing business was discontinued due to the business discontinuing operation (City of Abbotsford); One permit for a seafood processing facility was discontinued due to the facility discontinuing operation (City of Abbotsford); and 5

13 One permit for a short-term gas station construction project was discontinued due to the project being completed without a need to discharge wastewater to the sanitary sewer (City of Abbotsford). As of December 31, 2010, one application for a wastewater discharge permit was in progress and included the following: One permit was in progress for a berry and vegetable processing facility and was expected to be approved in early Codes of Practice Background The Abbotsford/Mission Water & Sewer Commission has made a commitment to the development and implementation of codes of practice to regulate non-domestic waste discharges to the sanitary sewer from the commercial, industrial and institutional sectors. Codes of practice set out minimum waste treatment, equipment maintenance and record keeping requirements for various operations. A discharging operation operating under a code of practice does not require a wastewater discharge permit unless required by WSCSCP staff. In the City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No and in the District of Mission Sewer Bylaw No , the definition of a code of practice is a regulatory document, developed by the City/District which contains mandatory sanitary sewer discharge standards for specific industrial, institutional or commercial operations. Implementation of codes of practice for dental operations and for photo imaging operations occurred in June/July In addition to working with the BC Dental Association and Photo Marketing Association (PMA), the WSCSCP referenced similar codes of practice already in place by the Capital Regional District (CRD) and Metro Vancouver in the development of the WSCSCP codes of practice. Stakeholder meetings took place in February 2009 and these codes were implemented in June/July of 2009 with treatment equipment required by January 1, Inspections of these codes of practice began in early Development of codes of practice for automotive operations, vehicle wash operations and dry cleaning operations began in 2009 and continued into Codes of practice and best management practices already in place by the Capital Regional District, Metro Vancouver and the City of Toronto were referenced in the development of the WSCSCP codes of practice. Distribution of industry specific surveys to stakeholders occurred in spring of Table 4 summarizes the adoption and effective dates for the five codes of practice. Table 4: Summary of Codes of Practice Adoption & Effective Dates Code of Practice: City of Abbotsford District of Mission Adoption Date: Adoption Date: Effective Date: Dental Operations July 13, 2009 June 15, 2009 January 1, 2010 Photo Imaging Operations July 13, 2009 June 15, 2009 January 1, 2010 Automotive Operations To be determined To be determined Estimated July 1, 2011 Vehicle Wash Operations To be determined To be determined Estimated July 1, 2011 Dry Cleaning Operations To be determined To be determined Estimated July 1, 2011 Refer to Sections , , , and for additional information regarding the development and implementation of the four codes of practice. Refer to Section for additional information regarding the code of practice inspections carried out in

14 2.5.2 Development & Implementation Summary Dental Operations Adoption of the code of practice for dental operations occurred in June/July 2009, and the effective date was January 1, All dental operations operating in Abbotsford and Mission are required to follow the code if they place/replace amalgam fillings. Dental operations are also required to follow the code of practice for photo imaging operations if their operation uses traditional non-digital x-ray procedures that produce silver-bearing wastewater. WSCSCP staff began inspecting dental operations in early 2010 to ensure the codes were being adhered to (refer to Section for a summary of inspections performed in 2010 for this code of practice). In order to better assist WSCSCP staff in educating discharging operations following this code of practice, a tri-fold pamphlet was developed summarizing the code details and included some frequently asked questions. These pamphlets were distributed to discharging operations during inspections and copies were also made available on the City of Abbotsford website (the District of Mission is in the process of updating their website to include this information). Refer to Appendix C for a copy of the pamphlet developed for this code of practice. Upon looking at quality data for biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant in 2010, it would appear that the implementation of the code of practice for dental operations may already be having a positive effect on mercury levels found in the biosolids. Refer to Figure 1 for a graph illustrating a three-year summary of mercury levels in JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids. Refer to Figure 2 for a graph illustrating the consistent decrease in mercury levels in the weekly biosolids samples collected and analyzed in Figure 1: Mercury Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids 3 Year Summary ( ) Mercury Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids ( ) 6 5 OMRR Limit = 5 ug/g Mercury (ug/g) Jan Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun-09 3-Sep Nov Feb May-10 2-Sep-10 2-Dec-10 Date Figure 2: Mercury Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Mercury Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) 6 5 OMRR Limit = 5 ug/g 4 Mercury (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec Date 7

15 Additional information regarding monitoring of the quality of biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant is found in Section C Class IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Laboratory Photo Imaging Operations Adoption of the code of practice for photo imaging operations occurred in June/July 2009, and the effective date was January 1, All photo imaging operations operating in Abbotsford and Mission must follow the code if they use traditional non-digital photo imaging procedures that produce silver-bearing wastewater. WSCSCP staff began inspecting photo imaging operations in early 2010 to ensure the codes were being adhered to (refer to Section for a summary of inspections performed in 2010 for this code of practice). In order to better assist WSCSCP staff in educating discharging operations following this code of practice, a tri-fold pamphlet was developed summarizing the code details and included some frequently asked questions. These pamphlets were distributed to discharging operations during inspections and copies were also made available on the City of Abbotsford website (the District of Mission is in the process of updating their website to include this information). Refer to Appendix C for a copy of the pamphlet developed for this code of practice. Upon looking at quality data for biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant in 2010, it would appear that the implementation of the code of practice for photo imaging operations may already be having a positive effect on silver levels found in the biosolids. Refer to Figure 3 for a graph illustrating a two-year summary of silver levels in JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids. Refer to Figure 4 for a graph illustrating the consistent decrease in silver levels in weekly biosolids samples collected and analyzed in Figure 3: Silver Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids 2 Year Summary ( ) Silver Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids ( ) Silver (ug/g) Jan Mar Jun Sep-09 3-Dec-09 4-Mar-10 3-Jun-10 9-Sep-10 9-Dec-10 Date Figure 4: Silver Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Silver Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) Silver (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul Date 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec 8

16 Automotive Operations & Vehicle Wash Operations The distribution of industry specific surveys to 218 potential automotive operations and vehicle wash operations currently operating within the City of Abbotsford and the District of Mission occurred in July and October of A third distribution of the industry specific survey was sent in July 2010 in an effort to obtain a better response rate to the survey. The 218 potential automotive operations and vehicle wash operations included such operations as collision repair shops, mechanical repair shops, service stations, engine washing activities, oil change operations, auto detailing, vehicle dealerships, vehicle maintenance facilities, vehicle recycling operations, radiator repair shops and towing businesses. Refer to Table 5 for a summary of the responses to this survey after the third distribution in July Table 5: Automotive Operations Survey Results # of responses: 91 # of locations with an oil-water separator (for sanitary sewer discharges): 27 (30%) # of oil-water separators cleaned monthly: 3 (10%) # of oil-water separators cleaned every 6 months: 7 (26%) # of oil-water separators cleaned annually: 10 (37%) # of oil-water separators with unknown cleaning schedule: 7 (26%) # of oil-water separators with maintenance logbooks: 6 (22%) The survey results allowed WSCSCP staff to obtain a good understanding of what treatment processes and record keeping practices were already in place at local automotive operations and vehicle wash operations. The need for development of the code of practice for these sectors was identified after review of the results showed a large number of operations with no treatment processes in place. The codes of practice for automotive operations and vehicle wash operations will require new operations setting up in Abbotsford and Mission to install and maintain oil-water separators for treatment of wastewater prior to discharging to the sanitary sewer. Existing operations will be grandfathered into the system and will be required to install an oil-water separator over a five-year period in addition to maintaining logbooks for all waste recycling and disposal practices. The purpose of grandfathering the existing operations into the system is to minimize the costs for these businesses that occur from the installation of the necessary treatment requirements under the code Dry Cleaning Operations The distribution of industry specific surveys to 16 potential dry cleaning operations currently operating within the City of Abbotsford and the District of Mission occurred in July and August of Refer to Table 6 for a summary of responses to this survey. Table 6: Dry Cleaning Survey Results # of responses: 10 # of locations using tetrachloroethylene for dry cleaning: 8 (80%) # of locations with off-site waste management: 4 (40%) # of locations with an integral tetrachloroethylene-water separator installed: 1 (10%) # of locations with second tetrachloroethylene-water separator installed: 1 (10%) # of locations with monitoring-alarm installed: 3 (30 %) # of locations with one activated carbon filter installed: 1 (10%) # of locations with two activated carbon filters installed: 1 (10%) # of locations with treatment equipment maintenance logbooks: 4 (40%) 9

17 The survey results allowed WSCSCP staff to obtain a good understanding of what treatment processes and record keeping practices were already in place at local dry cleaning operations. Additional research into dry cleaning operations identified the establishment of the Tetrachloroethylene (Use in Dry Cleaning and Reporting Requirements) Regulations. Environment Canada implemented this regulation in February 2003 and it outlines required treatment requirements and record keeping for dry cleaning operations using tetrachloroethylene. The requirements in the regulation closely reflect the requirements proposed for the WSCSCP code of practice. All dry cleaning businesses operating within Abbotsford and Mission will be required to have the required treatment works installed and maintained by the determined effective date for this code of practice Inspection Summary In 2010, WSCSCP staff began carrying out inspections for businesses operating under the codes of practice for dental operations and for photo imaging operations. Focus was placed on carrying out primary inspections to confirm the installation and proper maintenance of required treatment works, in addition to confirming accurate record keeping practices. Refer to Table 7 for a summary of the inspection activity for 2010 and to Table 8 for a summary of inspection compliance. Table 7: Summary of Code of Practice Inspection Activity 2010 Estimated Sector Size # of Site Inspections Code of Practice: Abbotsford: Mission: Total: Abbotsford: Mission: Total: Dental Operations Photo Imaging Operations Total: Table 8: Code of Practice Inspection Compliance Summary 2010 Code of Practice: # of Primary Inspections Completed: # of Follow Up Inspections Required: # of Follow Up Inspections Completed: # Operations in Full Compliance: # Operations in Progress: # Exempt from Code of Practice: Dental Operations (84%) 0 (0%) 1 (4%) 21 (84%) 3 (12%) Photo Imaging Operations 24 5 (20%) 0 (0%) 15 (63%) 5 (20%) 4 (17%) Total: The sector size estimates shown in the above table are the estimated numbers of active operations for each sector at the beginning of the year. The number of site inspections performed includes only primary inspections with many of the operations requiring follow up inspections to confirm achievement of compliance. Due to limited resources, WSCSCP staff focused on completing primary inspections in 2010 with the completion of follow up inspections planned for early All remaining primary inspections in both sectors are also planned for completion in Future Plans for Development Upon the adoption and implementation of the codes of practice for automotive operations and for dry cleaning operations, WSCSCP staff plan to focus on developing possible codes of practice for the following sectors in the coming years: Food Service Operations Carpet Cleaning Operations Laboratories Recreational Facilities 10

18 Due to limited resources, WSCSCP staff will focus on developing the codes of practice for food services operations and carpet cleaning operations in Contaminant Reduction Targets Contaminant schedule prioritization was determined through a risk assessment of prohibited and restricted wastes listed in the sewer use bylaw for each municipality. The initial focus of the risk assessment was on highest risk contaminants first and resulted in the identification of high-risk dischargers. Refer to Sections 2.6.1, and for additional information regarding these potential high-risk dischargers Metal Finishing Industry The metal finishing industry continued to be a primary focus for the WSCSCP in Historical quality data for the JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids have shown periodic elevated levels or spikes of various heavy metals over the years. Because of these historical spikes in metals concentrations, it was decided that the WSCSCP should focus on reducing concentrations of these contaminants in wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer. The metal finishing industry was identified as a potential primary source of heavy metal contaminants. In 2010, monitoring of two metal finishing locations was carried out (one in Abbotsford, one in Mission). The monitoring of these locations included a sampling program consisting of weekly 7-day composite samples with grab samples collected where appropriate. These samples were submitted to an accredited external laboratory for analysis including total metals, total cyanide, and ph. Refer to Section for a summary of the monitoring results for these locations. A decrease in concentration levels of various heavy metals in the JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids were observed over the past year. The WSCSCP plans to maintain or decrease the current heavy metals concentrations through continued cooperation and monitoring with the metal finishing industry and with other industries that may be identified as possible sources for these contaminants. Refer to Figures 5, 6 and 7 for summaries of concentration levels of chromium, copper and nickel in Figure 5: Chromium Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Chromium Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) OMRR Limit = 1060 ug/g Chromium (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul Date 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec 11

19 Figure 6: Copper Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Copper Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) Copper (ug/g) OMRR Limit = 1800 ug/g Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec Date Figure 7: Nickel Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Nickel Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) 170 OMRR Limit = 180 ug/g Hospitals Nickel (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul Date 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec Hospitals were identified by the WSCSCP as a potential primary source for arsenic and zinc levels in wastewater discharges. This information combined with the fact that a major hospital and cancer centre opened to the public in September 2008 attributed to the decision to begin monitoring of wastewater discharged from these types of operations. The monitoring program put into place consisted of a weekly 24-hour composite sample collected at each location. These samples were submitted to an accredited external laboratory for analysis including ph, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS) and total metals. Refer to Figures 8 and 9 for a summary of 2010 biosolids data for these parameters. Figure 8: Arsenic Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids 2010 Arsenic Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) OMRR Limit = 75 ug/g Arsenic (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul Date 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec 12

20 Figure 9: Zinc Levels in JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids 2010 Zinc Levels in JAMES PCC Biosolids (2010) OMRR Limit = 1850 ug/g Zinc (ug/g) Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 1-Apr 15-Apr 29-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 30-Jun 15-Jul Date 5-Aug 19-Aug 2-Sep 16-Sep 7-Oct 21-Oct 4-Nov 18-Nov 2-Dec 16-Dec 30-Dec In 2010, two hospital locations were monitored (one location in Abbotsford and one location in Mission). Sampling results continue to show the hospital locations are not a significant source of arsenic or zinc in wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer. However, elevated levels of BOD and TSS continued to be observed in wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer by the Abbotsford hospital location. The BOD and TSS levels in the wastewater discharged by the Mission hospital location continued to exhibit decreased levels of BOD and TSS. The differences in BOD and TSS levels in each location s wastewater discharge can be attributed to the large difference in operational size (i.e. the Abbotsford hospital location is much larger, therefore produces larger amounts of waste and wastewater). In 2010, the Abbotsford hospital location continued to be included in the BOD and TSS Waste Program. Sampling at the Mission hospital location continued on a monthly schedule and this location was not included in the BOD and TSS Waste Program. The BOD and TSS Waste Program is discussed in more detail in Section 2.8. Refer to Section for the summary of the monitoring results obtained for the two hospital locations in Wastewater ph The ph limits listed in each municipal sewer bylaw (City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No , and District of Mission Sewer Bylaw No ) are based on local, provincial, federal and international standards to protect the public, municipal staff, pipelines, the treatment plant and the environment. Levels of ph exceeding the Bylaw limits of 5.5 to 9.5 pose a serious concern. Historical review of monitoring data by WSCSCP staff discovered an ongoing concern with wastewater ph levels discharged into the sanitary sewer. The majority of samples collected over the years showed ph levels outside of the bylaw limits of 5.5 to 9.5. In addition, operations staff at the JAMES Treatment Plant brought plant influent ph fluctuations to the attention of WSCSCP staff in The concerns with fluctuations of plant influent ph included: January 31, 2007: Operations staff reported to WSCSCP staff unusual ph levels in the JAMES Treatment Plant influent were observed between January 23, 2007 to January 31, 2007 (ph levels ranged from a high of 9.39 to a low of 5.57 in influent flows); April 25, 2007: Operations staff reported to WSCSCP staff high toxicity potential in plant effluent due to elevated levels of ph and ammonia in plant influent; May 3, 2007: Operations staff reported to WSCSCP staff unusual ph levels in the JAMES Treatment Plant influent (ph level was indicated as unusually high with no exact ph value was given). 13

21 Because of these concerns, it was decided that the WSCSCP should focus on working with the industrial customers to decrease the number of discharges to the sanitary sewer that are noncompliant with the bylaw ph limits. An additional monitoring program was not required to address sampling requirements for wastewater ph. Composite samples collected for all other monitoring programs were already being analyzed for ph, so WSCSCP staff only needed to review incoming data for compliance with Bylaw ph limits. However, to assist the industrial customers with troubleshooting their processes for ph compliance, WSCSCP staff also performed field ph analysis on each composite sample in order to have immediate ph data available for reference. WSCSCP staff also collected grab samples at each location and performed field ph analysis on each grab sample. All field ph data obtained was reported to each industrial customer as required. An escalating step-based approach taken for each ph non-compliance issues in 2010 involved a series of letters, required compliance plans, and reporting of data to each industrial customer. Minor changes implemented in the data reporting and invoicing for industrial customers participating in the BOD and TSS Waste Program ensured they received their ph results along with the BOD and TSS analytical data. Refer to Section for the summary of compliance results obtained for wastewater ph in Key Manholes The JAMES Treatment Plant currently has separate agreements with the City of Sumas and the Township of Langley to accept sanitary sewer wastewater discharges from each area. As part of these agreements, both municipalities must meet wastewater discharge criteria outlined in their respective agreement and/or the City of Abbotsford Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw No The combination of large volumes of wastewater and a large industrial customer base (Township of Langley East Aldergrove & Gloucester), contributed to the decision for the WSCSCP to regularly monitor the wastewater originating from these two separate areas. The following key manhole locations were selected for sampling points: City of Sumas manhole located on the trunk line running near the border on B St. near 2 nd Ave. in Abbotsford; and Township of Langley East (Aldergrove & Gloucester) manhole located on the trunk line running on Simpson Rd. near Ross Rd. in Abbotsford. The monitoring program consists of weekly 24-hour composite samples collected and submitted to an accredited external laboratory for ph, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) analysis. These samples are included in the BOD and TSS Waste Program, and fees are invoiced as determined by each written agreement. In addition, a 24-hour composite or grab sample is collected and submitted to an accredited external laboratory for the following extended list of analysis: Total metals Trivalent chromium Sulphate Total cyanide Hexavalent chromium Sulphide (Grab) Samples collected for the above-listed extended list of analysis for the City of Sumas occurs on a monthly basis and for the Township of Langley East (Aldergrove & Gloucester) on a weekly basis. 14

22 The sanitary sewer discharge from the Township of Langley East (Aldergrove & Gloucester) is estimated to cease by mid-2011 once the wastewater is redirected for collection and treatment in the Metro Vancouver sanitary sewer system. Once this redirection occurs, the WSCSCP will discontinue monitoring of the associated key manhole location. Refer to Section for a summary of monitoring results for each key manhole location. 2.8 BOD & TSS Waste Program Heavy loadings of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in wastewater entering the JAMES Treatment Plant can adversely affect the treatment processes and can contribute to increased treatment plant expansion needs. To mitigate these effects, wastewatermonitoring programs developed in 1995 ensured costs recovery for treating this type of waste. Over the years, many changes and improvements made to the wastewater-monitoring program led to the formation of the BOD and TSS Waste Program. The coordination and implementation of the BOD and TSS Waste Program is by WSCSCP staff. In 2010, the City of Abbotsford had twenty-four locations routinely monitored as part of the BOD and TSS Waste Program. The District of Mission currently does not have any locations included in this program. The monitoring program consists of 24-hour composite samples collected on a random schedule four or five times per month. These samples are submitted to an accredited external laboratory for ph, BOD and TSS analysis. The monthly average BOD and TSS concentrations used along with the monthly sanitary sewer discharge volume determines the BOD and TSS waste mass loading charges for that month. Refer to Table 9 for the mass loading charges for Table 9: BOD & TSS Waste Charges Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Charge: $0.39/kg/month $0.41/kg/month In 2010, the twenty-four locations monitored discharged a total volume of 1,631,929 m 3 of wastewater, 1,599,172 kg of BOD, and 712,284 kg of TSS. Refer to Figures 10, 11, and 12 for the trends for these parameters over the past few years. Figure 10: Total Annual BOD & TSS Waste Discharge Volumes ( ) Total Annual BOD & TSS Waste Discharge Volumes ( ) 2,000,000 1,800,000 1,740,306 Flow (m 3 ) 1,600,000 1,400,000 1,424,445 1,603,052 1,674,665 1,631,929 1,290,228 1,344,180 1,280,945 1,200,000 1,202,183 1,000, Year 15

23 Figure 11: BOD & TSS Waste Program Annual BOD Mass Loading ( ) Annual BOD Mass Loading ( ) 2,500,000 BOD Mass Loading (kg) 2,250,000 2,000,000 1,750,000 2,194,997 2,038,971 1,975,010 1,691,529 1,763,409 1,676,746 1,680,738 1,500,000 1,592,034 1,599, Year Figure 12: BOD & TSS Waste Program Annual TSS Mass Loading ( ) Annual TSS Mass Loading ( ) 750, ,284 TSS Mass Loading (kg) 700, , , , , , , , , , , , , , Year Refer to Section for a summary of monitoring results for the BOD and TSS Waste Program. 2.9 Monitoring & Enforcement Five separate monitoring programs continued as part of the WSCSCP in Monitoring and enforcement (if applicable) took place in the following areas of interest: Metal Finishing Industry; Hospitals; Wastewater ph; Key Manholes; and BOD & TSS Waste Program. Refer to Sections through for further information on the above-listed areas. 16

24 2.9.1 Metal Finishing Industry Refer to Table 10 for a summary of thhe findings and results of the monitoring programs for the two metal finishing operations discussed in Section Table 10: Metal Finishing Industry Monitoring Parameter: # of Samples Collected: # of Non- Compliance Samples: % of Samples In- Compliance: # of Level 1 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of Level 2 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of Level 3 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of In- Compliance Letters Issued: ph % Total Cyanide % Total Metals % Total: % Notes: 1) Each non-compliance letter is issued generally for a group of data results (i.e. 1-2 months worth of data per letter). 2) A business is issued an in-compliance letter once they have resolved problems identified in a previously received non-compliance letter(s). 3) The number of non-compliance samples listed under total metals is based on a sample where one or more total metals parameter is above the bylaw limit. Monitoring of both metal finishing operations will continue in Hospitals Refer to Table 11 for a summary of the findings and results of the monitoring program at the two hospital locations discussed in Section Table 11: Hospitals Monitoring Parameter: # of Samples Collected: # of Non-Compliance Samples: % of Samples In-Compliance: ph % BOD TSS Total Metals % Total: % Monitoring of both hospitals will continue in Monitoring of the Abbotsford hospital location will continue on a weekly basis and will continue to be included in the BOD and TSS Waste Program. Monitoring of the Mission hospital location will continue on a monthly basis and will be continuously re-evaluated for inclusion with the BOD and TSS Waste Program Key Manholes Refer to Table 12 for a summary of the findings and results of the monitoring program carried out at the two trunk line locations discussed in Section

25 Table 12: Key Manhole Monitoring Parameter: # of Samples Collected: # of Non-Compliance Samples: % of Samples In- Compliance: ph % BOD % TSS % Total Metals % Hexavalent Chromium % Trivalent Chromium % Total Cyanide % Sulphate % Sulphide % Total: % Monitoring of the two trunk line locations will continue in Wastewater ph Refer to Tables 13, 14 and 15 for a summary of the findings and results of the ph compliance monitoring carried out in 2009 discussed in Section Table 13: Wastewater ph Compliance Monitoring (External Lab Analysis) Monitoring Program: # of Composite Samples Collected # of Non-Compliance % of Samples (for External Lab ph Analysis): Samples: In-Compliance: Metal Finishing % Hospitals % Key Manholes % BOD & TSS Waste Program % Total: % Table 14: Wastewater ph Compliance Monitoring (Field Analysis) Monitoring Program: # of Grab Samples Collected (for Field Analysis): # of Composite Samples Collected (for Field Analysis): # of Non-Compliance Samples: % of Samples In-Compliance: Metal Finishing % Hospitals % Key Manholes % BOD & TSS Waste Program % Subtotal: Total: 1, % Table 15: Wastewater ph Non-Compliance Issues Monitoring Program: # of Level 1 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of Level 2 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of Level 3 Non- Compliance Letters Issued: # of ph Compliance Plans Initiated: # of Locations Achieving Compliance: Metal Finishing Hospitals Key Manholes BOD & TSS Waste Program Total:

26 Notes: 1) Each non-compliance letter is issued generally for a group of data results (i.e. 1-2 months worth of data per letter). 2) A business is issued an in-compliance letter once they have rectified problems identified in a previously received non-compliance letter(s) BOD & TSS Waste Program Refer to Table 16 for a summary of the findings and results of the monitoring program carried out at the twenty-four locations discussed in Section 2.8. Table 16: BOD & TSS Waste Program Monitoring # of Samples Collected: Total Volume Discharged (m 3 ): Total BOD Discharged (kg): Total TSS Discharged (kg): Total BOD Waste Fees Collected: Total TSS Waste Fees Collected: Total BOD & TSS Waste Fees Collected: 718 1,663,114 1,602, ,345 $624,966 $292,471 $917,438 Monitoring of the twenty-four locations will continue in Unauthorized Discharge Events WSCSCP staff encountered nine separate unauthorized discharge events in Refer to Table 17 for a summary of the information pertaining to these events. Table 17: Unauthorized Discharge Events 2010 Discharger: Dairy Processing Facility Date of Event: January 21, 2010 Details of Event: Dairy processing facility notified WSCSCP staff of a discharge to the sanitary sewer; wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer contained unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. Dairy processing facility provided a completed copy of the form found in the bylaw under Schedule I Reporting of Accidental Discharges to Sewer. Corrective Action Taken: WSCSCP staff issued a letter notifying the dairy processing facility of receipt of the Schedule I form, and notifying the facility of the applicable BOD & TSS Waste charges associated with the discharge. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature. Poultry Processing Facility February 3, 2010 WSCSCP staff observed the remnants of a suspected vegetable oil garbage container run off entering a nearby storm sewer catch basin. WSCSCP staff forwarded the information to the Sewer Manager with the City of Abbotsford for review and action (due to the destination of the discharge being the storm sewer). Fruit & Vegetable Processing Facility February 5, 2010 WSCSCP staff observed an overflow of wastewater containing large amounts of cranberries from sanitary sewer strainer into a nearby ditch. WSCSCP staff forwarded the information to an Environmental Coordinator with the City of Abbotsford for review and action (due to the destination of the discharge being a ditch). 19

27 Discharger: Date of Event: April 9, 2010 Details of Event: Corrective Action Taken: Dairy Processing Facility Dairy Processing Facility April 23, 2010 Dairy processing facility notified WSCSCP staff of a discharge to the sanitary sewer; wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer contained unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. Dairy processing facility provided a completed copy of the form found in the bylaw under Schedule I Reporting of Accidental Discharges to Sewer. WSCSCP staff observed unusual wastewater being discharged to the sanitary sewer; wastewater was found to contain unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. WSCSCP staff issued a letter notifying the dairy processing facility of receipt of the Schedule I form, and notifying the facility of the applicable BOD & TSS Waste charges associated with the discharge. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss possible sources for the unusual wastewater discharge; a definite source for the unusual wastewater was not determined. Dairy Processing Facility March 4, 2010 Dairy processing facility notified WSCSCP staff of a discharge to the sanitary sewer; wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer contained unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. Dairy processing facility provided a completed copy of the form found in the bylaw under Schedule I Reporting of Accidental Discharges to Sewer. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature and to ensure proper discharge reporting procedures were followed in the future. WSCSCP staff issued a letter notifying the dairy processing facility of receipt of the Schedule I form, and notifying the facility of the applicable BOD & TSS Waste charges associated with the discharge. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature. Dairy Processing Facility March 9, 2010 Dairy processing facility notified WSCSCP staff of a discharge to the sanitary sewer; wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer contained unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. Dairy processing facility provided a completed copy of the form found in the bylaw under Schedule I Reporting of Accidental Discharges to Sewer. WSCSCP staff issued a letter notifying the dairy processing facility of receipt of the Schedule I form, and notifying the facility of the applicable BOD & TSS Waste charges associated with the discharge. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature. Truck Wash Facility June 6, 2010 WSCSCP staff observed unusual wastewater being discharged to the sanitary sewer; wastewater was found to contain unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss possible sources for the unusual wastewater discharge; a definite source for the unusual wastewater was not determined. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature and to ensure proper discharge reporting procedures were followed in the future. 20

28 Discharger: Date of Event: Details of Event: Corrective Action Taken: Dairy Processing Facility July 19, 2010 Dairy processing facility notified WSCSCP staff of a discharge to the sanitary sewer; wastewater discharged to the sanitary sewer contained unusually high concentrations of BOD and TSS. Dairy processing facility provided a completed copy of the form found in the bylaw under Schedule I Reporting of Accidental Discharges to Sewer. WSCSCP staff issued a letter notifying the dairy processing facility of receipt of the Schedule I form, and notifying the facility of the applicable BOD & TSS Waste charges associated with the discharge. WSCSCP staff followed up with the facility to discuss provisions to be taken in order to avoid future discharges of the same nature. 3.0 Budgeting & Expenditures The total amount budgeted for the WSCSCP in 2010 was $388,900, and the total amount actually expended in 2010 was $208,217. Refer to Table 18 for the breakdown of the budget items and expenditures and refer to Table 19 for the budget for Table 18: Source Control Budgeting & Expenditures Budget Item: 2010 Budgeted Amount: 2010 Actual Expenditure: Difference: Labour $238,400 $147,936 - $90,464 Equipment & Installation Costs $65,000 $13,436 - $51,564 Analytical Costs $85,500 $46,845 - $38,655 Total: $388,900 $208,217 - $180,683 The actual expenditure in 2010 was low due to unexpected staffing delays and minimal equipment requirements. The hiring of the second Utilities Environment Technologist in 2010 was delayed until the end of the year. It is expected that this position will be filled in early Table 19: Source Control Budget Budget Item: 2011 Budgeted Amount: Labour $251,260 Equipment & Installation Costs $70,000 Discharge & Audit Testing Analytical Costs $31,500 BOD & TSS Waste Program Analytical Costs $45,500 Total: $398, Program Planning & Development The following is a summary of the main activities and achievements related to the management, planning and administration of the WSCSCP in 2010: Implementation and enforcement of codes of practice for dental and photo imaging operations; Development of codes of practice for automotive, vehicle wash, and dry cleaning operations; Development and implementation of comprehensive Source Control information on the City of Abbotsford webpage; 21

29 Development of proposed amendments for the Sewer Use Bylaws; February 01, 2010: James Lab Testing and Source Control Services ENG I (See Appendix H) Recommendation of approval for external laboratory analysis services; and April 15, 2010: Update to Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, for the Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw ENG I (See Appendix H) Recommendation of incorporation of fines related to the Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw be incorporated into the Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw. 5.0 Next Steps 2011 The main areas of development of the program in 2011 will involve implementation of the key items as identified in the five-year plan. These areas include: Implementation of codes of practice for automobile, vehicle wash, and dry cleaning operations; Implementation of proposed amendments for the Sewer Use Bylaws; Implementation of comprehensive Source Control information on the District of Mission webpage; and Development and implementation of a user s guide for applying for a wastewater discharge permit. 22

30 B. BIOSOLIDS RESIDUALS MANAGEMENT 1.0 Introduction The Abbotsford/Mission Water and Sewer Commission (WSC) currently own and operate the JAMES Treatment Plant located at 5959 Gladwin Rd. The JAMES Treatment Plant services the City of Abbotsford, District of Mission, East Langley (Aldergrove and Gloucester), and the City of Sumas. The 2010 service population based on loading is 274,800 people (comprised of a residential population of 163,520 people and the balance from commercial, industrial, and institutional population equivalent loading). By 2031, this predicted equivalent service population is 450,000 people (including a residential population of 220,000). The JAMES Treatment Plant currently produces approximately 8,000 wet tonnes of Class A biosolids per year and this volume will likely double over the next 25 years. Historically, 95% of the biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant has been utilized for mine reclamation purposes at Highland Valley Copper Mine (HVC) in BC s interior near Logan Lake. The remaining 5% has been used in other biosolids end - use initiatives like poplar tree farms, landfill closures and the production of a growing medium product called Val-E-Gro. In 2010, 70% of biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant were utilized for mine reclamation. The remaining 30% were utilized in the production and sale of Val-E-Gro TM soil products. 1.1 Process Overview The JAMES Treatment Plant comprises the following wastewater treatment processes: Headwork s screens to remove coarse solids (screening product is sent to landfill for disposal); Grit settling chambers for grit removal (grit is sent to landfill for disposal); Primary clarifiers for removal of primary sludge (sludge removed is sent to pasteurization process); Trickling filters for removal of organic loading; Aeration tanks for removal of organic loading; and Secondary clarifiers for removal and recycling of activated sludge (activated sludge is sent to sludge thickener and then pasteurization process). Refer to Figure 13 for an illustration showing the biosolids processing path within the JAMES Treatment Plant. 23

31 Figure 13: JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids Processing Path from primary settling tanks Crude Biosolids Holding Tank Crude Biosolids Recirculation Transfer Pumps Boiler System Recirculation Heat Exchanger No. 1 Venturi Eductor Pasteurization Tank Venturi Eductor from boiler Recirculation Heat Exchanger No. 2 to boiler Pas Biosolids Holding Tank Pas Biosolids Recirculation Transfer Pumps Biosolids/Biosolids Heat Exchangers Hot Water/Biosolids Heat Exchangers LEGEND Hot Water Crude Biosolids Pasteurized Biosolids Pas Tank Recirculation Pump No.1 Pas Tank Recirculation Pump No.2 No Flow Through Pipe Automated Valve Manual Valve Pump Waste Heat Exchanger Anaerobic Digester No. 1 (primary) Anaerobic Digester No. 1 (secondary) Anaerobic Digester No. 2 (storage) Fill transfer transfer Belt Filter Presses Pasteurization Tank Batch O peration Bin Storage Primary and secondary sludge is collected in the crude biosolids holding tank (approx. 60% primary settled solids and 40% secondary solids), before being sent to the pasteurization process. In the pasteurization process, the sludge is circulated and heated using steam, and air is inducted using a venturi system to maintain aerobic conditions throughout the pasteurization tank. Sludge is retained in this process for sufficient time to achieve pathogen kill. This process is the key step enabling the JAMES Treatment Plant to produce Class A biosolids. Following the pasteurization process, sludge is sent to the digesters. Three mesophilic anaerobic digesters in series are used to treat the combined primary and secondary sludge, and digested sludge is produced at an approximate rate of 400 m 3 /d with a solids content of 1.5%. From the digesters, sludge is pumped to the belt-filter presses, which are operated for approximately seven hours a day, seven days a week. Filter pressed biosolids with a solids content of around 20% are conveyed to storage bins and stored prior to transport for their ultimate end use. 2.0 Regulatory Context for Biosolids Production 2.1 Organic Matter Recycling Regulation The Provincial Organic Matter Recycling Regulation (OMRR), created under the Environmental Management Act, applies to the construction and operation of composting facilities, and the production, distribution, storage, sale and use or land application of biosolids and compost. OMRR also sets minimum standards for products based on the following criteria: Pathogen Reduction - The reduction of organisms such as bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and parasites that can cause disease in humans and animals. Vector attraction reduction - The reduction of the characteristic in biosolids that attracts rodents, flies, mosquitoes, or other organisms capable of transporting infectious agents, such as pathogens. Maximum allowable pathogen limits - The function of fecal coliform counts per gram of total solids. (Note: Fecal coliforms are bacteria that typically originate from human or animal feces). Maximum allowable concentrations of heavy metals - Sets limits of heavy metals concentrations for the biosolids products. The maximum concentration is dependent on the class 24

32 of biosolids ( Class A / Class A compost, Class B / Class B compost, biosolids growing media). In addition, depending on the class of biosolids produced and the final disposal location, there are other regulated parameters such as limiting the land application rates or limiting the concentration of organic matter in biosolids growing medium. Figure 14 illustrates how the various requirements of OMRR affect the different products for biosolids usage. Figure 14: OMRR Product Requirements OMRR also stipulates how the various products can be used and/or distributed, as those with less stringent quality restrictions typically have greater restrictions on their end uses. Refer to Table 20 for a summary of the permissible distribution levels for each of the four products. Table 20: OMRR Permitted Uses for Biosolids Class A Biosolids: Can be land applied, with limits on quantities Land Application Plan required Distribution volumes must be: <5 m 3 per vehicle per day in sealed bags (<5 m 3 ) Compost or biosolids growing medium facilities only for quantities >5 m 3 Class B Biosolids: Can be land applied, with limits on quantities Land Application Plan required No land application in watershed used for drinking water Can be distributed without restriction to compost facilities Growing Medium: No restrictions Class A Compost: No restrictions 3.0 Beneficial End Uses for Biosolids As previously mentioned, the JAMES Treatment Plant produces Class A biosolids that meet the criteria outlined under OMRR. Class A biosolids must meet strict regulations and quality standards including numerical limits for metals in biosolids, pathogen reduction standards, and sampling and 25

33 analysis protocols and testing frequency. Refer to Appendix D for a summary of 2010 weekly biosolids quality data. Since 2000, the biosolids produced by the JAMES Treatment Plant have gone to three beneficial end uses: mine reclamation (at Highland Valley Copper); application to local tree farms adjacent to the JAMES Treatment Plant (project completed in 2004); and a fabricated growing medium called Val-E- Gro. Refer to Table 21 for the historical quantities of biosolids distributed to each end use. Table 21: Annual Volumes of JAMES Treatment Plant Biosolids by End Use ( ) Year: Biosolids Trucked to Mine Reclamation (wet tonnes/year): Biosolids to Tree Farms (wet tonnes/year): Biosolids to Val-E-Gro TM (wet tonnes/year): Total Biosolids Produced (wet tonnes/year): ,921 (94%) 500 (6%) --- 8, ,468 (94%) 500 (6%) --- 8, ,799 (93%) 500 (7%) --- 7, ,216 (94%) 500 (6%) --- 7, ,373 (93%) 584 (7%) --- 7, ,665 (96%) (4%) 7, ,207 (99.5%) (0.5%) 10, ,082 (100%) (0%) 10, ,473 (96%) (4%) 8, ,570 (92%) (8%) 8, ,835 (70%) --- 2,409 (30%) 8,244 Total: 87,609 2,584 3,800 93,993 Note: There was no Val-E-Gro TM produced or sold during 2007 due to the JAMES Treatment Plan pasteurization system being taken off line for repairs from Dec 06, 2005 to June 13, During this period, there was no production of Class A biosolids at the JAMES Treatment Plant. As a result, Val-E-Gro TM could not be produced (as per the requirements outlined in OMRR). 3.1 Mine Reclamation Background Historically, 95% of the biosolids produced at the JAMES Treatment Plant have been utilized for mine reclamation purposes at Highland Valley Copper Mine (HVC) in BC s interior near Logan Lake. Photograph 3 shows one of the application sites where JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids have been used. Photograph 3: Highland Valley Copper Mine 26

34 Since the inception of the mine reclamation program in 2000, the JAMES Treatment Plant has recycled approximately 87,609 bulk tonnes of biosolids to 117 hectares of waste mine spoils Trucking & Transfers In 2010, there were 5,835 bulk tonnes of biosolids transported by LA Transport from the JAMES Treatment Plant to HVC Valley Stockpile. Photographs 4 and 5 show images of the main biosolids stockpile area and biosolids stockpiled at an application site. Photograph 4: Main HVC Stockpile Area Photograph 5: HVC Biosolids Transferred and Stockpiled at an Application Site Bio Ag Technologies was also contracted to transfer material from the main designated stockpile to the application sites. In 2010, Bio-Ag transferred 6,993 bulk tonnes of biosolids to various receiving sites. Table 22 summarizes the quantity of biosolids delivered and transferred at HVC as of December 31, Table 22: Trucking / Transfer & Stockpile Summary Activity: Amount of Biosolids (Tonnes): Carry Over from 2009 at Highmont Stockpile 2, Biosolids Deliveries to Highmont Stockpile 5,835 Total Biosolids at Highmont Stockpile During ,449 Biosolids Removed from Stockpile & Staged at LNEJ09A (J1) for 2011 Application -1,044 Biosolids Removed from Stockpile & Applied to HNJ10A (J5) for 2011 Incorporation -5,949 Carryover of Biosolids at Highmont Stockpile to ,456 In addition to the biosolids delivered and transferred in 2010, 1,456 bulk tonnes were carried over for transfer and application in Incorporation / Application The 2010 reclamation activities involved the application of 5,949 tonnes of biosolids to 5.9 hectares of mine spoils. The biosolids were applied at specified application rates using a dozer blading method. Incorporation to this particular site will commence in Refer to the 2010 Biosolids Applications Report in Appendix E for additional details regarding biosolids application and incorporation. 27

35 3.1.4 Mine Reclamation Costs Historically, the cost to utilize the JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids in mine reclamation activities at HVC has been at the expense of the biosolids producer. Costs incurred include transportation, incorporation, application, environmental management, and site management. Table 23 summarizes the mine reclamation costs by the City for Table 23: Mine Reclamation Costs Summary Cost (Jan to Dec): Transport (JAMES Treatment Plant to HVC) $166,365 Application & Incorporation (at HVC) $128,400 Environmental Management (at HVC) $6,841 Total: $301,606 Even though mine reclamation is recognized as high cost and poor performance from a triple bottom line perspective, mine reclamation is identified as one of the primary outlets in the short and medium term. In addition, since mine reclamation of Class B biosolids represents the most secure fall-back option in the event of process upsets or pasteurizer failure at the JAMES Treatment Plant, it is clear that the City must continue in the long term to secure mine reclamation area in the very least as a contingency outlet for biosolids during process upsets Proposed 2011 Reclamation Activities Reclamation sites at HVC are becoming increasingly difficult to find. However, HVC Environmental Services staff have identified one additional site to be reclaimed with JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids in The site is approximately 9 hectares in size. At the standard JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids reclamation application rate of 200 dry tonnes per hectare, up to 1,800 dry tonnes (9,326 bulk tonnes at 19.3% total solids) of biosolids will be required for the site. Biosolids used at this site will consist of the 1,456 bulk tonnes of material carried over from 2010 and additional 2011 material as required. 3.2 Val-E-Gro Fabricated Growing Medium Background The concept to create a soil product originated from City staff in The existing Provincial organic residuals regulations did not allow for development of topsoil products from biosolids until new legislation was approved in City of Abbotsford retained the services of Sylvis Environmental in 2003 to design a product that would comply with the new legislation (the Provincial Organic Matter Recycling Regulations - OMRR). In 2004, a facilities plan and budget was developed for the manufacture of the growing medium that included all the necessary structures and equipment. A marketing plan was also developed including the trademarked product name (Val-E-Gro TM ) and logo. The original production facility was completed in In late 2008 to early 2009, the production facility was moved to a new location and upgraded with the addition of a larger production tent structure. In 2009, the City of Abbotsford requested expressions of interest from suitably qualified firms with proven expertise in marketing and distribution of topsoil products similar to Val-E- Gro. Yardworks Supply Ltd. was the successful proponent and began a partnership with the City of Abbotsford in November of

36 3.2.2 Production & On-Site Storage Val-E-Gro is manufactured by mixing Class A biosolids, washed sand and composted bark at a 1:1:1.5 ratio. Val-E-Gro is produced by rough mixing the mixture with a loader and then processing the rough mix through a soil shredder for complete mixing. Testing is performed following batch production of Val-E-Gro to ensure continuous achievement of quality assurance standards and regulatory limits outlined in OMRR. The final Val-E-Gro TM product is stored on-site where it can be loaded into transport trucks for bulk sales (coordinated through Yardworks Supply Ltd.). The new production site now includes a large production structure (90 ft x 120 ft), a storage structure (60 ft x 100 ft), and a loading ramp. Photographs 6 and 7 show images of the Val-E-Gro TM production and storage structures respectively. Photograph 6 - Production Structure Photograph 7 - Storage Structure Cost Savings Cost savings are achieved by diverting JAMES Treatment Plant biosolids from mine reclamation through using biosolids for the production of Val-E-Gro TM. Refer to Table 24 for the component cost structure for producing Val-E-Gro TM in Table 24: Val-E-Gro TM Soil Production Component Cost Structure 2010 Cost (per cubic yard): Cost of Producing Val-E-Gro TM : $17 Val-E-Gro TM Sales Price: $10 Mine Reclamation Costs: $46 Total Costs Savings for Producing Val-E-Gro TM : $39 For every cubic yard of Val-E-Gro TM that is produced and sold, the City of Abbotsford is able to obtain a cost savings of $39 through diverting the biosolids used from mine reclamation Sales In 2010, a total of 7,519 yards of Val-E-Gro TM were sold or given away. Refer to Table 25 for a summary of annual Val-E-Gro sales from 2005 to Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the historical sales over the years. 29