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11
Jan
2026
2026
Pelican Narrows water update
Community Notice
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Water System Update, School Closures & Water Conservation
(Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, Treaty 6 Territory) — Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation would like to provide members with an important update on the current status of the community water system, as well as outline safety precautions related to temporary pumping operations now underway.
Current Water System Status
- Water plant reservoirs were full yesterday following stabilization efforts.
- The temporary pumping system was needed sparingly, as the water plant had caught up.
- Temporary pumps froze in the afternoon, but crews worked immediately to thaw them.
- Heaters are now set up at the pumping site and will be used as needed moving forward to prevent freezing.
Intake Investigation – What We Know
- Crews were unable to make the main lake intake valve operational on Friday night or Saturday afternoon, as it remains frozen.
- Efforts will continue today to get the valve operational so a camera inspection of a segment of the intake line can be completed.
- Divers were on site yesterday and successfully located and inspected the intake screen at the end of the intake line.
- Video and photos were provided.
- The intake screen does not appear to be the issue.
- Divers reported it appeared to be in very good condition, “as if it were still brand new.”
- Once the valve is operational, crews will:
- Complete the camera inspection
- Attempt a backflush of the intake line
- Investigation is continuing using a process of elimination.
- If the root cause is not identified today, next steps will be re-evaluated.
Important Update from Today’s Meeting
Although reservoirs were full earlier, levels dropped quickly today when intake pumps were shut down for testing. This showed how vulnerable the system still is, especially when water use increases.
School Closures
Schools will remain CLOSED for a couple of days.
- Schools represent the largest single water demand, with approximately 1,100 students and 300 staff.
- Closing schools provides a safety buffer while intake issues are addressed.
- This also allows time for the Education Department to secure bottled water for students and staff.
Facility Update
All other facilities remain OPEN, including:
- Band Office
- Health Centre
These facilities are asked to strictly limit water use.
Water Restrictions Still in Place
Members are asked to continue conserving water.
- Reservoir levels can drop very quickly if intake pumps are disrupted.
- Water use increased today as some believed the issue had been fully resolved.
We do not want to drain the water treatment plant, especially in winter, as this increases the risk of frozen lines and further damage.
Clarification: Lake Overflow Rumours
PBCN wants to correct misinformation circulating in the community:
- Water seen on the east side of town is natural overflow from a nearby creek.
- It is NOT sewage.
- It is NOT caused by a busted water line or sewer line.
- It is NOT near the water intake and does not affect drinking water.
Please rely on official PBCN updates only.
Bottled Water & Container Returns
- The Boil Water Advisory remains in effect.
- Bottled water distribution continues as needed.
- Please return empty 18-litre water jugs so they can be refilled and reused.
- Empty remaining water into other containers before returning jugs.
- Door-to-door collection will be arranged where needed.
- Leadership is working to order additional bottled water.
Thank You
PBCN thanks community members for their patience, cooperation, and water conservation, and thanks the crews, technical teams, and emergency staff working extended hours to protect the system.
Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.
— Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Leadership & Operations
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