While the move was approved by Weyburn City Council in the spring, the switch over to chloramines at the Water Treatment Plant, initially scheduled for next week, will be put off slightly longer.  

“The City of Weyburn is going to be delaying the transition to chloramines at its water treatment plant,” explained Paige Tenbult, the City of Weyburn’s Communications Coordinator. “We're looking at the beginning of August to be changing that system, which will improve our disinfection process at the Water Treatment Plant.” 

The move to chloramines is to help ensure the levels of certain organic byproducts remain within the parameters established by the Water Security Agency. Currently, the disinfection process in Weyburn uses chlorine alone, which can create those organic byproducts. Adding some ammonia to the process, it creates chloramine, which keeps levels of those byproducts in check.  

While the residents of Weyburn, for the most part, shouldn’t notice any changes, the city is making sure everyone knows about the changeover ahead of time, particularly those few who will be affected by the change.  

“There is a big thing we do want to remind residents of if they have fish tanks,” Tenbult pointed out. “Fish tanks are going to need to have a filter, a de-chlorinator. It’s available at any pet store, but it is recommended because the residual from the chloramines are potentially toxic to some species of fish.” 

Changes to water treatment processes can also have an effect on those who are undergoing dialysis. With this in mind, the Saskatchewan Health Authority has been advised of the coming change so they know what steps to take in terms of dialysis machines. Those with questions about how the process could affect them are encouraged to contact their doctor.  

The use of chloramines is already prevalent in many municipalities across the country, including here in Saskatchewan. 

“The City of Saskatoon, Estevan, Meadow Lake – they all use this as well for disinfection,” Tenbult said.  

With the transition to chloramines from straight chlorine on hold, the City of Weyburn will provide an update once the date is confirmed for the transition.