UA Students in Chemistry 11, Chemistry 12, and Environmental Science 12 enjoyed a change of scenery from urban New Westminster to the green forests of the North Shore for a tour of the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Plant and a walk through the picturesque Seymour watershed.
Where Does Our Drinking Water Come From?
In the Metro Vancouver region, we are all fortunate to be drinking water that has been stored and flows into one of three watersheds directly from rainwater and snowmelt up in the mountains. In the Seymour watershed, this water stays in the Seymour reservoir until it is needed for use. The water is then processed in the SCFP through flocculation, several rounds of filtration, and finally UV light treatment to kill any live microorganisms. The water is made alkaline with some lime such that it will not corrode the network of copper pipes throughout the Lower Mainland, bringing this excellent quality water to each of our homes.
A Newfound Respect For Water Conservation Initiatives
The students made the most of the day, chatting with various employees in the plant, simulating a neutralization reaction and walking through the protected forests of the watershed. The lesson learned is clear:
“I will not waste water after this experience. I will respect the hard work of the people who work at the filtration plant [to apply the] hard work of many scientists to develop this technology.”
Jason H., Grade 11
After this experience, we will all be encouraging family and friends in Vancouver to drink from the tap!
