FWS was engaged to provide full design-build services for a major grain export terminal located on the north shore of the Fraser River in coastal British Columbia. Completed in late 2020, the terminal was developed to overcome long-standing challenges in Canada’s grain transport system, such as limited rail capacity and port congestion.

The facility features over 90,000 metric tonnes of grain storage, including both above-ground steel bins and flat storage, and is supported by a semi-loop rail system capable of handling more than 300 railcars. Designed for high-throughput operations, the terminal is capable of servicing up to 80 bulk vessels per year, using a retractable three-tower ship loader that promotes both efficiency and environmental responsibility.

‍

The Fraser Grain Terminal project was driven by key objectives:

• Address the limitations of western Canada’s rail and port infrastructure to enhance grain export efficiency.
• Improve logistics and streamline grain transport for Canadian farmers.
• Increase export capacity through advanced infrastructure and sustainable design.
• Foster stronger relationships with international markets by improving delivery efficiency and reliability.

The facility integrates industry-leading solutions to optimize performance and sustainability:

• Rail Unloading Station and Transfer Tower: Equipped with a fully enclosed conveying system and dust suppression technology to minimize emissions.
• Three-Tower Ship Loader: Features choke and cascade-type telescopic spouts to reduce dust and enhance vessel loading efficiency.
• Rail Track Realignment: Three holding tracks were added to improve connectivity across CN, CP, BNSF, and SRY rail networks.
• Storage Solutions: 73,000 metric tonnes of capacity in steel bins and 20,000 metric tonnes in flat storage for maximum flexibility.
• Supporting Facilities: Administration building, maintenance shop, electrical rooms, and a vehicle access road to ensure smooth operations and accessibility.

The completed facility has significantly improved Canada’s grain handling and export capacity. With robust rail connectivity and ship loading capabilities, the terminal supports year-round operations and consistent delivery to global markets. The implementation of modern environmental controls and high-efficiency systems positions the facility as a model of sustainable agribusiness infrastructure.