What’s In Your Water?

July 26, 2025
Water was the theme of a talk given by the Rural Water Watch Association and Dalhousie Coastal Hydrology Lab to members of the KCA at the Duckworth barn on. Dug wells, drilled wells, water quality, salt water infiltration in coastal areas, and the impacts of climate change on water levels and water quality were all topics of interest to the participants. 

Did you know that you cannot see, smell, or taste bacteria, viruses, parasites, or metals in your well water? This is why well water testing is so important. The Nova Scotia Government recommends testing for bacteria every six months, and to test the chemical and physical properties of your well every two years. All such tests, including the costs, are the responsibility of the homeowner.

So, to practice "safe water", ensure that you; test your water regularly, protect your well area to prevent contamination, maintain your well by fixing any damage promptly and ensuring that the ground slopes away from your well, and treat well water as needed, based on the results of testing. 

Want to learn more? Click here for a copy of the presentation. — Alexander MacDonald