The Bonaparte First Nation IR2 Water System Improvements Project is a design and construction project that addressed the significant health and safety risks the existing water systems posed to the residents in the Bonapart First Nation (BFN) I.R.#2 (Lower Hat Creek). The existing water supply to the homes was provided via dug or drilled wells without adequate treatment and a long-standing Boil Water Advisory (BWA) had been in place for 30+ years.
GHD worked with BFN, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), and Clearflo Solutions Inc. (Clearflo) to develop a water treatment and a distribution system to meet drinking water quality standards and lift the Boil Water Advisories.

The project presented a series of unique challenges that required innovative solutions, creative problem-solving, and collaboration between all stakeholders.

• The project, located in a remote community, required the design and implementation of a decentralized water treatment system to address the dispersed nature of the local housing clusters, which are spread kilometers apart.
  
• New homes were added to the scope during the design phase.
  
• Poor water quality from the source wells at one of the WTP locations.
  
• Limited access to existing infrastructure drawings
  
• Groundwater and large bedrock formations along some of the proposed piping alignments.
  
• Terrain featured a steep embankment with slopes as steep as 44.5%.
  

GHD was involved from the initial conceptualization stage, through procurement, design, and installation, all the way to commissioning and operator training. With GHD’s expertise in water treatment systems and effective problem-solving and strong collaboration among all team members, we delivered a solution that is not only technically innovative but also tailored to the specific needs of the community.

The project leverages advanced water treatment technologies, modular systems, and sustainable energy sources to deliver an effective and scalable solution.

• Containerized Water Treatment Plants in Seacans – With 14 homes across the reserve, this allowed for treatment plants to be located in strategic locations.
  
• Solar-Powered Operation – Harnessing green energy, the project reduces operational costs and aligns with broader sustainability goals. Providing a reliable, cost-effective energy source.
  
• Remote Monitoring and Control (SCADA) – Operators can receive real-time alerts of any issues, monitor process variables, and adjust system settings remotely. Potential issues are identified and addressed quickly, without the need for on-site visits.
  
• Virtual Maintenance and Troubleshooting – Equipped with interior cameras that enable operators to virtually connect with the manufacturer’s support team. This allows the operator to receive visual guidance during troubleshooting or maintenance tasks, enabling faster resolutions and reducing the need for on-site assistance.
  
• Scalability and Adaptability – As the community grows or water quality requirements change, the system can be upgraded with higher capacity pumps and alternative process equipment can be fitted within the system.
  

This project sets a new standard for how Indigenous communities can benefit from advanced, sustainable water treatment technologies, offering a model for future infrastructure projects.

Providing the BFN Community with reliable, clean water for the first time in over 30 years, the raw water is treated to meet consumption standards, lifting long-standing boil water advisories. This milestone addresses critical public health concerns as well as eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming alternatives. Collaboration contributed to the project’s success and comprehensive operator training equips the community to maintain and operate the new water system independently.