Solid Waste Management Feasibility Study for Pigeon Lake Reserve Lands – AB

Dillon was retained by Maskwacis Cree Tribal Council to develop a short- and long-term solid waste management strategy aimed at providing a higher and consistent level of service to the residents of Pigeon Lake. The reserve is shared between four First Nations, residents were each receiving varying levels of service depending on the First Nation the resident was registered with.

Dillon underwent a review of the existing system, which involved touring the facilities and interviewing each of the four parent First Nations. A local resident was hired to conduct a door-to-door survey of the residents to establish the baseline conditions of the Pigeon Lake reserve. The information gave valuable data to make decisions, and the perspective and opinions of the locals were invaluable at understanding the unique needs of the residents. Information was presented to stakeholders at in-person meetings using PowerPoint throughout the project. 

Market analysis of the local waste service providers was conducted to consider the various disposal options available. The long-list options were presented, that was narrowed down to a short-list during the stakeholder meetings. The short-term opportunities for improvement provided quick and necessary actions to bring every resident to a baseline service of receiving waste collection. The long-term options provided a system more in-line with industry best practices and the goals of the residents. A stepped approach, or incremental pathway was presented on how to achieve the long-term system. Feasibility options were also presented for deterrence of illegal dumping and disposal of hazardous waste. Class C cost estimates were developed for capital and operations and maintenance for each new scenario, as well as the status quo.

Project Details

Project Partner: Maskwacis Cree Tribal Council
Business Unit: Waste Management
Service Offering: Advisory Services