SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM

This week's Elmira Independent carrys this story: "Source Water Protection Program brings changes". This program is under the auspices of the provincial Clean Water Act and is a direct result of the Walkerton tragedy in 2000. Essentially it mandates Municipalities to examine various threats to wells and other drinking water sources. These treats, based on proximity to the drinking water sources, are then rated and significant threats are mitigated. Eric Hodgins of the Region of Waterloo spoke to Woolwich Council about this program at the Sept. 6/11 Council meeting. Many of the maps and charts are on-line under Lake Erie Source Protection Region and are excellent resource materials. They let the readers know where the drinking water sources are and the geographical areas that are being carefully observed. Like all programs however their enforcement or muscle is dependent on the will and environmental seriousness of the local politicians. Hence as usual interpretations , exceptions and enforcement will be discretionary.