Cardston Secures $5M Grant for Groundbreaking Water Treatment Project

The Town of Cardston  is embarking on a pioneering environmental project after securing a significant provincial grant for a major water treatment upgrade.

 

Officials have confirmed a $5 million grant will support the installation of an innovative wastewater system, marking a critical investment in the town's future.

 

The funding comes from Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) through its Continuous Intake Program, which targets practical solutions for municipal waste and water challenges.

 

The total cost of the ambitious project is estimated at $17.9 million.

 

This initiative will establish Alberta’s first-ever standalone Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR) Pilot.

 

This advanced technology uses helpful bacteria to process sewage more efficiently, a significant upgrade from the town's current, aging infrastructure.

 

Proponents say the MABR system uses up to 50 percent less electricity than conventional methods, promising cleaner, more reliable water at a lower operational cost.

 

Cardston Mayor Maggie Kronen expressed her gratitude for the province's support, highlighting the project's transformative potential.

 

She described the installation as a "bold shift" in how municipalities and commercial operators can approach sustainable wastewater infrastructure.

 

"Cardston is delighted to be leading the way in embracing transformative technology," Kronen stated, emphasizing the project's role as a potential model for other communities.

 

The investment is part of a broader provincial strategy to help municipalities manage the complexities of modern waste and water systems.

 

Justin Riemer, CEO of Emissions Reduction Alberta, noted that the program is designed to support the right projects at the right time.

 

The goal is to help communities deliver essential services while meeting long-term needs.

 

If the pilot proves successful, it could offer a cheaper and more environmentally friendly path for wastewater treatment across Alberta, especially for smaller municipalities facing similar challenges.

 

The provincial government also announced a separate $5 million grant to the Peace River Waste Management Company for technology that converts garbage into carbon-neutral power.

 

That project aims to cut waste by 85 percent and dramatically lower landfill methane emissions.

 

For Cardston, this water treatment grant is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it's a step toward becoming a leader in municipal innovation.

 

 

FAQ

What is the Cardston water treatment project?
The project is an upgrade to Cardston's wastewater system using a new technology called a Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR), which is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

 

How much is the Cardston water treatment grant?
The Town of Cardston is receiving a $5 million grant from the Alberta government through Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) for the $17.9 million project.

 

Why is this project significant?
It will be the first standalone, full-scale deployment of MABR technology in Western Canada, positioning Cardston as a leader in innovative and sustainable wastewater infrastructure.