TNRD looks at options for regulating biosolids

KAMLOOPS – In response to recent concerns around biosolids the regional district is considering changes to regulations around commercial and agriculture composting.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is reviewing a zoning bylaw to regulate commercial composting and to limit the scale of agricultural composting. In a media release, the district says if the amendment is supported by the board it will limit the sale or export of agricultural compost such as processed manure, food waste or biosolids from agricultural operations.

The amendment is in response to direction from the board looking at if and how the district can lawfully regulate biosolids.

The composting of biosolids has become a controversial issue in the district and the BioCentral compost facility in the Merritt area has been the focus of recent protests. Protestors have set up blockades, stopping many trucks from reaching the disposal site west of Merritt and have also rallied in front of Premier Christy Clark’s office in Kelowna.

The regional district notes the current bylaw does not restrict composting activities and municipalities are not able to license, manage or issue permits for farm operations, including composting, but can prohibit commercial sale or export of compost produced on a farm. Municipalities do not receive notifications regarding composting or biosolids applications.

The district has started the consultation process with member municipalities, First Nations, the Agricultural Land Commission and provincial ministries. A public hearing is expected as well.

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