The Sierra Club of Eastern Canada and the University of Waterloo have released a report on groundwater quality from municipal water systems on PEI suggesting that drinking water supplied by municipal groundwater wells across PEI is generally of good quality.
"This work provides a valuable and independent review of groundwater quality on PEI as well as baseline data that will complement municipalities' water monitoring programs," said Minister Mitch Murphy, Department of Technology and Environment.
Water samples were collected from municipal wells in 12 communities and analysed for a total of 217 water quality parameters. Because of relatively intensive agricultural land use in the province, particular emphasis was given to pesticides, with analysis for 142 pesticide compounds being included in the survey. The report indicates that no detections of pesticides were found and, where detected, other organic compounds were at levels well below guideline values. Results for inorganic parameters were also positive with only two samples where a parameter exceeded guideline levels. In both cases, lead was detected at slightly elevated levels and the report suggests that the detections in the distribution samples are likely occurring as a result of lead dissolving into water from pipes or lead solder.
Waters sampled are considered to be "young" or "recent," making the results even more promising as the waters were recharged during recent decades when extensive use of industrial and agricultural chemicals have taken place.
The report highlights the need for municipal utilities to maintain water testing programs and suggests that the Province should build on the good work already taking place by developing more specific legislation for the protection of groundwater. A province-wide program to monitor ambient groundwater quality is also recommended.
Minister Murphy indicated that he agrees with many of the recommendations and noted that many of the issues raised in the report have been addressed. "Reasonable sampling programs have been maintained, and during this past year guidelines were developed to help strengthen this work."
"While these results are encouraging, we can't take the quality of our groundwater for granted," added Minister Murphy. "The department is committed to assisting communities develop well field protection strategies and this issue will be pursued further in the coming months."
For further information, contact the Water Resources Division of the Department of Technology and Environment at 368-5046.