Rainy River Water Treatment Study and Systems Upgrade

The town of Rainy River, Ontario faced a public health risk when an excess of trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), known carcinogens, were found in its drinking water. KGS Group, with the University of Manitoba, conducted detailed pilot studies on ion exchange and nanofiltration systems to develop the best method to mitigate the presence of THMs and HAAs in Rainy River’s treated water.

Ultimately, the ion exchange option was chosen as it would not require costly building expansion and was much more practical to operate. KGS Group provided engineering consulting services for the design, construction and commissioning of the new ion exchange system for the Rainy River water treatment plant. The new system not only exceeded Health Canada’s Guideline for Canadian Drinking Water Quality regarding THMs and HAAs, it also reduced chlorine consumption by 40%. A serious health concern in Rainy River’s drinking water was addressed in a practical way that optimized the use of the town’s existing assets.

Acknowledging its success, the town received a commendation from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change for this project.