Utilities Department- Water and Sewer
The Utilities Department is responsible for delivering clean, safe drinking water and managing the Town’s wastewater and stormwater systems. This includes operating the water treatment plant, monitoring lift stations, and maintaining the sewer mains that carry wastewater to the treatment facility. The department also oversees a small stormwater system that collects runoff along the Alaska Highway which drains into First Wye Lake. A bulk water station is also available in Watson Lake for residents and contractors who require water access. Daily system checks, proactive maintenance, and emergency repairs are all part of ensuring that residents receive reliable, high-quality water and wastewater services. The Utilities team works under the Director of Operations and remains focused on safety, service, and protecting public health through strong infrastructure and careful monitoring.
Bulk Water Station
The Town of Watson Lake offers a bulk water service for residents, contractors, and businesses requiring large volumes of treated water. To access this service, users must complete a one-time application, which can be submitted by email to info@watsonlake.ca or in person at the Town Office. Once approved, applicants receive a secure, PIN-protected water access card that grants them 24/7 access to the bulk water station. Usage is tracked, and account holders are invoiced monthly based on their consumption. This system ensures reliable, convenient access to clean water while maintaining accountability and ease of use.
Water and Sewer Service
Water and Sewer Service in Watson Lake The Town of Watson Lake provides piped water and sewer services to properties located within designated serviced Residential Zones, as outlined in the Official Community Plan (OCP). An interactive map of these serviced areas is available below for reference.
Residents within these zones who are connected to the Town’s water system are eligible to receive a water meter at no cost, which can be obtained at the Town Office. Using a water meter allows residents to track their water usage more accurately and qualify for discounted utility rates based on consumption.
The Town offers several convenient ways to receive and pay utility bills:
•In person at the Town Office,
•Through EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer)
•Online or in-branch at most Financial Institutions
•Through phone at 867-536-8000
For assistance with billing options, account setup, or picking up a water meter, please contact the Town Office.
You can opt in on receiving your monthly utilities statement through email. Contact admin@watsonlake.ca to register.
Your Waste Shouldn't Be a Problem:
Let’s keep our pipes (and our town) running smoothly! While it might seem like your sink and toilet can handle anything, many everyday items can cause serious damage to our sewer system. Avoid costly clogs and backups by knowing what not to flush or pour. When in doubt: trash it, don’t drain it!
| Don’t Pour or Flush | Why It’s a Problem | Better Disposal Method |
|---|---|---|
| Wipes (even “flushable”) | They don’t break down and clog sewer lines | Trash bin |
| Grease, fats, oils | They harden in pipes and cause blockages | Let cool, then dispose in sealed container/trash |
| Coffee grounds | They clump and build up in drains | Compost or trash |
| Paper towels & tissues | Too thick to break down in water | Trash bin |
| Feminine hygiene products | Not made to dissolve — major clog risk | Trash bin |
| Paints, solvents, chemicals | Harmful to wastewater treatment & environment | Take to a hazardous waste collection site |
| Food scraps | Can clog drains and attract pests | Compost where possible |