Protecting Drinking Water

There are some rural communities within the Quinte Conservation Watershed that have a municipal drinking water supply, but often times, drinking water is provided through a drilled, dug, or bored well located on the property. Groundwater is a shared resource and contamination from one well can put other wells at risk. 

It is the homeowners responsibility to test their drinking water to make sure it is safe for consumption. 

• You can learn more about groundwater and testing well water through the Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health page on Well Water.
• If a chemical or contamination problem is suspected, you can run tests through a licensed private lab, for a fee. 
• What should you do if your well is running low due to drought? Learn more about water conservation through this Low Water Resource for Homeowners with Private Wells.
• How can you use your water safely during a "Boil Water Advisory"? A boil water advisory is issued when there is a concern for the safety of individuals who rely on groundwater for drinking. Learn more about how to safely use your water during a "Boil Water Advisory".
• Visit our Caring For Your Well page for additional resources, including links to well records, the Ontario Ground Water Association, and stewardship activities for requirements and best practices for well water supply. 

Water Hauling 

If you typically experience drought, you may want to consider purchasing a water storage unit, like a cistern, and consider water hauling services to relieve the demand on your well. 

If contamination of your well is due to offsite activities, you can report your concerns to The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. 

Learn more about Protecting Quinte Region Drinking Water Sources through Quinte Source Water Protection. 
Find information on:

• Risk Management
• Vulnerable Mapping Areas (Intake Protection Zones) 
• Reports and Studies

If you notice, or have a spill, contact the Spills Action Centre to make a report.