Water Quality

 Water Sampling and Test Results

Water analysis is available through the Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory. Samples must be processed within 48 hours. Results will be mailed to the address you specify on the water analysis request form.

Containers with sample bottles are available at any RM office or at Public Health Services upon request. Blue Requisition forms are used by public health inspected facilities. White requisition forms are used for private water samples. The enclosed requisition must be filled in completely or your sample may be rejected at the lab. Payment is to be made to the Minister of Finance. Cost varies depending on type of analysis requested.

Public Health Services will provide shipping to the laboratory. In order for samples to be processed within the required time water samples must be received by 12 noon on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday only.

Issuance of Precautionary Drinking Water Advisories (PDWA’s):

PDWA’s are to be issued under following circumstances:

  • Significant deterioration in source water quality (i.e. high turbidity due to runoff and or other events)
  • Lack of minimum treatment or inability to meet minimum chlorine residuals
  • The bacteriological monitoring results show persistent total coliform or overgrowth
  • Persistently high concentration of chemical parameters
  • Contamination within the distribution system
  • Lack of water sample submissions as required by the Health Hazard Regulations or local health region

Issuance of Emergency Boil Water Order (EBWO):

EBWO’s should only be issued to address confirmed public health threats due to microbial contamination of drinking water. EBWO’s should be issued on evidence of:

  • Confirmed presence of E. coli
  • Confirmed presence of fecal coliforms
  • Where epidemiological evidence indicates that the drinking water is responsible for an outbreak of illness.

Well Disinfectant

Disinfection is routinely used to control bacteria in wells and is applied as part of a start-up procedure for newly constructed wells. It should be used for semi-annual maintenance for existing wells. Disinfection should also be performed in the event of contaminations, such as bacteria or flooding. High level chlorine well disinfection is best but requires a 1360 litre (300 gallon) clean water tank.

Instructions on how to shock chlorinate your well can be found below.

Water Quality Resources

Water Quality Websites