Handy Helper’s Corner: Supplying Water to YMCA Wanakita

One of the most overlooked aspects of YMCA Wanakita’s infrastructure is our water systems. It takes a dedicated effort to ensure that a safe and consistent source of fresh water is available at every tap at Wanakita. 

Let's go behind the scenes of the Wanakita Water Works.

The source and treatment

Wanakita draws its water from Koshlong Lake, known as surface water (water pumped from a well is considered groundwater). There are three long pipes that extend out into the lake to supply water to the three distribution centres:

• Heming Welcome Centre and full-time staff housing.

• The Core, Health Centre, and everything on West.

• East Dining Hall and everything on East. 

Powerful pumps draw this water from the lake and into the filter and treatment centres.

Making the water safe to drink  

As the water is pumped from the lake it passes through layers of gradually finer material filters to remove any debris, colour, or taste of raw lake water. 

The water then passes through a UV chamber that removes pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.

Lastly, a Dosatron—a water-powered, non-electric chemical machine—injects chemicals into the water line and ensures the chemical mixture remains the same regardless of variations in pressure and flow.

Every day, a certified member of the Facilities Team tests the water at each of the Wanakita Distribution centres, with biological testing happening each month. 

The water is now safe to drink and is distributed throughout Wanakita. Nothing is left to chance when it comes to the water at camp.

Wanakita Water Trivia and Facts

• Water flow usage at Summer Kids Camp skyrockets on Dance Night!

• The East Kitchen freezers and refrigerators are cooled with water from Koshlong Lake.

• There are currently three staff Team Members who are qualified to test water.

  • Mark Rice, Tim Maaskant, and Mike Anderson

• The East Water System must be opened each Spring and closed each Fall to protect the pipes from freezing. 

• All KYBO’s must be winterized to prevent bursting pipes.