Source Water Protection

Source Water Protection

Our drinking water comes from lakes, rivers, streams, and underground sources called aquifers. These sources can be sensitive to contamination and do not easily recover from stress. Protecting them helps ensure we continue to have safe and reliable drinking water for years to come.

Source Water Protection focuses on keeping water clean at its source, before it reaches treatment facilities. By managing activities that could impact water quality, we reduce risks, control treatment costs, and support long term sustainability.

The Source Protection Plan was created under the Ontario Clean Water Act, 2006. Local conservation authorities, including the Raisin Region and South Nation Conservation Authorities, worked together to develop this plan for the Raisin South Nation Source Protection Region.

As part of this work, we identified municipal drinking water sources and assessed how vulnerable they are to potential risks. These sources include both surface water intakes and groundwater wells.

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Town of Prescott Drinking Water Source

The Town of Prescott draws its municipal drinking water from the St. Lawrence River. To help protect this source, we established protection zones:

• Primary zone
  This area sits immediately upstream of the Town
• Secondary zone
  This area extends west toward the Blue Church area
• Tertiary zone
  This area includes streams and tributaries that flow into the river

To learn more about Source Water Protection, visit www.yourdrinkingwater.ca

You can also review the Source Protection Plan for the Raisin South Nation Source Protection Region or watch Conservation Ontario’s video “Do you know where your drinking water comes from?”

Small Drinking Water Systems

In rural areas, businesses that provide drinking water to the public, such as restaurants, gas stations, and recreational facilities, must ensure their water is safe. Ontario Regulation 319 sets the requirements for these systems.

Public Health Inspectors regularly inspect these systems. When needed, they direct owners to test their water and take action to address any concerns.

Township staff also complete quarterly water sampling at municipal facilities. This includes recreation facilities, fire stations, ball parks, the library, and the municipal office.

Well Water Testing for Residents

Residents of Augusta Township can test their well water at no cost through the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.

How to submit a sample

1. Pick up a sample bottle from the Health Unit office at 458 Laurier Blvd in Brockville or from the Augusta Township Office in Maynard
2. Complete the form included with the bottle
3. Follow the instructions to collect your sample
4. Return the sample to the Health Unit office
5. The Health Unit tests for bacteria. Private laboratories can test for minerals and chemicals if needed.

To learn more about protecting your well water, download the Groundwater Protection Workbook from the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority.