Wastewater Infrastructure and Watershed Protection
Funding fosters long-term wastewater solution
The Darwell and North 43 Lagoon Commissions are celebrating a major step forward in rural infrastructure and environmental protection thanks to a $14.8 million investment from the Government of Alberta through its Water for Life program.
The grant will fund 90% of a major transmission line project connecting the Darwell Lagoon to the Tri-Village area, the North 43 Lagoon, and onward to the Northeast Lagoon. This system expansion will ensure long-term capacity, protect local watersheds, and support future community growth.
This $14.8 million investment builds on more than $11 million previously committed to lagoon and wastewater infrastructure in the region, bringing the total provincial support to over $25 million.
The project serves the municipalities of Lac Ste. Anne County, and the Summer Villages of Silver Sands, South View, Castle Island, Yellowstone, and Ross Haven. With both the Darwell and North 43 lagoon systems nearing capacity, this critical infrastructure project comes at the right time—and at a fraction of the cost of other alternatives.
“This is a smart investment for our region. With 90% of the funding coming from the province, we’re able to build a long-term solution for a fraction of the cost. Instead of spending $10 million or more on expanding two lagoon systems, this single transmission line project costs local municipalities about $4 million—and sets us up for the future.”
The completed transmission line will reduce the environmental impact of effluent discharge in the Sturgeon watershed, helping safeguard water quality for nearby communities, agriculture, and recreation users. It also reflects a collaborative approach to shared infrastructure that is both cost-effective and future-focused.
The Darwell and North 43 Lagoon Commissions expressed their sincere appreciation to Minister Devin Dreeshen, MLA Getson, and the Province of Alberta for recognizing the urgency of this investment.
"Our government understands that rural Alberta needs reliable, sustainable infrastructure that keeps costs down and environmental protection front and centre, this is exactly what the Water for Life program is meant to do."
As these projects progress, we will provide additional information and updates—including opportunities for public engagement through regional open house events.
About the Commissions:
- Darwell Lagoon Commission comprises the Summer Village of Southview and Silver Sands and the County.
- North 43 Lagoon Commission comprises the Summer Villages of Ross Haven, Yellowstone, Castle Island and the County.
These Commissions are separate corporate entities with their own governance structure that differs from the municipalities that are members.
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