Alpine Water Works, Okotoks, AB

In early 2, 000, I started my first acreage service company, servicing residential septic systems. I was surprised when I was first asked to pump out a water cistern, when I was finished with pumping out their septic system.

From time to time I would receive the same request. I would respond that it would not be a “healthy” idea. I was right, but that didn’t resolve their problem.

I knew that just pumping out their cistern with a conventional pump was not the answer, as that would remove the water, but not the sludge on the floor and walls. I also knew that the proper procedure would be a vacuum and pressure-washer system, combined with a sanitizing process. This would need to be installed in a unit totally dedicated for potable water. I thought about it often and liked the idea, but I was very busy with my (then) current business.