Funding commitments for Phase 3 of Winnipeg’s north end sewage treatment plant are conspicuously absent from the provincial budget, released on March 20, 2025.

The new cost estimate for biological nutrient removal at Winnipeg's north end sewage plant is an astronomical $1.491 billion. While seeking additional funding, city council must optimize the chemical phosphorus reduction system already in place at the plant.

Presenting to the Standing Policy Committee on Water, Waste and Environment, we express our concern over the 80% cost increase for biological nutrient removal facilities at Winnipeg's North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC). As councillors work to secure funding for this project, we urge City Council to optimize the chemical phosphorus reduction solution already in place at NEWPCC, in order to achieve phosphorus compliance.

Instead of deflecting its responsibility for achieving phosphorus compliance at Winnipeg’s largest sewage treatment plant, Manitoba’s government must take action to implement a cost-effective solution.

Thanks to the tireless advocacy of concerned citizens, chemical phosphorus reduction is now happening at Winnipeg’s north end sewage treatment plant – the single most important step the city has taken to protect Lake Winnipeg.

Manitoba Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes must work with his cabinet colleagues to put in place a fully funded, accelerated, evidence-based plan for phosphorus compliance at Winnipeg’s north end sewage treatment plant.

Manitoba’s environment minister must accelerate phosphorus compliance at Winnipeg’s north end sewage treatment plant.

To protect Lake Winnipeg, phosphorus compliance at Winnipeg's north end sewage treatment plant must be a priority. Jointly created by LWF and our partners, our reports recommend cost-effective solutions that can be implemented to address phosphorus pollution and achieve results.

Join us in advocating for accelerated phosphorus compliance at Winnipeg’s largest sewage treatment plant, the North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC).

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