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Serving the Canadian Ground Water industry for 48 years.
OUR CHANGING GROUNDWATER
Climate change is bringing both surface and groundwater levels to centre stage in Canada. 12 THE
NEED FOR MONITORING
New film illustrates the importance of groundwater monitoring.
14
SHOWING THEIR TRUE GRIT
Graduates of drinking water program adapt well during COVID.
20
NIGHTMARE IN THE NORTH
Drinking water crisis in Iqaluit, Nunavut is finally resolved. 23 THE
SOURCE
News and View From OGWA.
ON THE WEB:
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Having to boil water is downright primitive. by Mike Jiggens
Groundwater iron concentrations to blame for pond’s discolouration
An investigation into the rust-coloured substance found at the Atlantic Gold’s tailings pond at its Touquoy mine was iron from groundwater, and no risk to the environment has been determined. CBC News report.
Aardvark Drilling lends its support to Morwick Centre
Aardvark Drilling Inc., a contractor with roots in Guelph, has made a notable contribution the development of the Morwick Groundwater Research Centre at the University of Guelph.
Having to boil water is downright primitive
The need to boil water should never be considered normal
by Mike Jiggens
Wow. Talk about a trial by fire in taking over the editorship of this publication. One of my daily duties is posting new content onto our website, and there has certainly been no shortage of news in the world of groundwater and other water-related matters.
Unfortunately, it’s been mostly bad news.
Two of these ongoing stories have revolved around the recent flooding in areas of British Columbia and the contaminated drinking water supply in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Clean drinking water is something we tend to take for granted. Having to boil it before it’s suitable for human consumption or not having access to it all seems downright primitive.
Iqaluit is another wake-up call for Canada to end drinking water advisories in First Nations municipalities.
Allow me to pause here for just a moment so that I may properly introduce myself. My name is Mike Jiggens, and I’ve been the editor of a sister publication of Ground Water Canada’s – called Turf & Rec – for more than 27 years. That publication serves the Canadian turf and grounds maintenance industry, and is read by landscape contractors, lawn care professionals, golf course superintendents and sports turf managers. From here on in, I’ll be editing both publications.
There is some crossover, I suppose, between the turf and groundwater industries in such areas as irrigation and drainage. But, groundwater is an otherwise new area for me to explore, and so my journey begins.
The aforementioned flooding in British Columbia is just one more catastrophe that province has had to endure in 2021. If dealing with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic wasn’t enough, B.C. has been ravaged this year by wildfires, intense heat waves and excessive rainfall which has, in turn, triggered massive flooding and mudslides.
The flooding has been so severe in some areas that it caused the water treatment plant in Merritt to fail and has led to boil-water orders being issued in other regions. It has greatly inconvenienced
untold thousands of people who are unable to access their drinking water from normal channels and has driven many away from their homes.
Further north, in Iqaluit, the drinking water supply had become compromised by a nearby fuel spill, requiring members of the Canadian Armed Forces to come in and engineer a reverse osmosis purification system.
The situation in Iqaluit is yet another wakeup call for Canada to act on putting an end to all drinking water advisories in First Nations municipalities. As of mid-November, there were still 43 yet-to-be-addressed advisories still in existence in 31 different First Nations jurisdictions in Canada – mainly in Ontario, but also in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
The way it’s supposed to work is that you turn on your faucet, fill a glass with tap water and drink away without fear. The process is not supposed to involve filling a pot with water, bringing it to a boil, allowing it to cool down and then drinking it. That’s primitive and should never be considered normal.
Boil-water orders can be forgiven when they’re precipitated by natural disasters. But, when they’re the result of negligence or outdated infrastructure, there must be accountability and the need for an immediate fix. Having to boil our water before it can be safely consumed is not how human beings are meant to live, and certainly not here in Canada.
For those of you curious to know what has become of my predecessor, Colleen Cross, she’s still very much active with our parent company, Annex Business Media, and looks after the editorial content of two other publications. I may still lean on her from time to time as I navigate my way through these first few issues.
NEXT ISSUE: The next issue of Ground Water Canada will focus on drilling and related technology.
Watch for it in April!
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CHECK VALVE MANUFACTURER WINS ADVERTISING AWARD
Flomatic Valves, a manufacturer of check valves for the water and wastewater market for almost 90 years, has won a “citation of excellence in advertising” award for its marketing department.
The award from the Water Environment Federation (WEF) is in recognition of the advertisement, “Manufacturing in America: It’s Our Commitment.”
“We are humbled to be recognized for the Citation of Excellence in Advertising,” Daniel Hidalgo, marketing manager at Flomatic Valves, said. “This distinguished recognition reflects the hard work and commitment of our Flomatic family and our dedication helping to provide clean water to communities around the world with valve products manufactured here in the United States.”
The WEF Awards and Presidential Celebration Ceremony recognizes organizations and recipients that have made operational and design excellence contributions to the water environment field through the effective and original presentation of equipment and services in Water Environment & Technology (WE&T)
THE BOSHART GROUP ACQUIRES SIMMONS MANUFACTURING
Simmons Manufacturing, a leading Georgia-based manufacturer of water well supplies, has been acquired by water solutions company The Boshart Group.
Simmons will continue to operate as an independent company within The Boshart Group, upholding the same level of commitment to their employees, customers, and vendors.
“It’s our people, their commitment to the industry and their willingness to do the hard work necessary that has driven our success,” Robert Engeman Jr., president of Simmons, whose father founded the company in 1957, said. “I would like to specifically acknowledge Mo Rainey for his dedicated sales and marketing leadership over the past 25 years and my son, Robert Engeman III, for the strategic contributions he has made in operations as well as his ongoing commitment to Simmons and our team.”
The Boshart Group noted the acquisition is a celebration of the people, history, and culture that built the company and which presents an opportunity to work together to embrace future possibilities.
Boshart Group CEO Jeremy Kuepfer has announced that Bob Engeman Jr., Mo Rainey, and Robert Engeman III will continue in leadership roles with the company. Additionally, it has been announced West Soward will join their team as president of Simmons. He will leverage his 20 years of industry experience to serve and guide the team. His leadership and business acumen will provide a foundation for Simmons’ continued success.
“The addition of Simmons to our group further demonstrates our commitment to partnering with family businesses with a strong customer service focus,” Gary Boshart, founder and chair of The Boshart Group, said. “I am very proud that we are continuing to strengthen our investment in the water well industry in North America, setting the stage for tremendous growth and development in the future. The next season is guaranteed to be an exciting one for everyone involved in this generational journey.”
B.C. WATER WELL OWNERS WARNED OF MANURE CONTAMINATION
Owners of private drinking water wells in flooded areas of the Metro Vancouver Regional District and Fraser Valley Regional District of British Columbia are being warned that their wells may be at risk of liquid manure contamination.
The risk has been heightened due to high precipitation from recent storms and the potential overflow or failures of liquid manure storage systems.
The Ministry of Health is advising residents who own or are responsible for a private drinking water well that has been affected by flooding to assess their well and take action. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy is working to reduce the risks of liquid manure overflow.
FLOODED B.C. RESIDENTS FACE SEWER-RELATED HEALTH RISKS
British Columbians living in flooded areas and who own sewer systems are being warned of the potential health and environmental risks and the means to mitigate them.
During flooding and while standing water persists, sewer systems cannot function properly. Flooding can also lead to saturated soil conditions, erosion or land surface changes that can damage systems or change how the system functions after water recedes.
People who own or are responsible for an on-site sewer system that has been affected by flooding should contact an authorized person to assess the proper functioning of the system.
Flomatic Valves was recently honoured by the Water Environment Federation with an “excellence in advertising award.”
CLIMATE CHANGE
OUR CHANGING GROUNDWATER
Climate change is bringing both surface and groundwater levels to centre stage in Canada
During 2021, the Canadian Prairies experienced severe drought, and many people both there and across the country were very concerned. The severe flooding in British Columbia in November also shocked Canadians from coast to coast.
by TREENA HEIN
Some provinces such as B.C., Alberta and Ontario monitor streams and river levels. In Ontario, a collaborative network of seven “Integrated Climate Change” monitoring stations exist across the province, which measure weather parameters, and the level and quality of water in streams and groundwater.
It’s safe to say that climate change is bringing both surface and groundwater levels to centre stage in Canada.
Groundwater (GW) levels are obviously sensitive to precipitation, but they’re also affected by aquifer storage capacity, recharge rate (the rate at which surface water trickles down to aquifers) and human withdrawal.
As we did in 2013, we now present a cross-country GW snapshot, along with a look at trends and the newest monitoring technologies. Keep in mind that GW levels fluctuate yearly and long-term trends are hard to discern in many regions. Some provincial agencies can speak to trends more than others.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
The B.C. Ministry of the Environment has operated a network of observation wells since 1961, now at 200 wells, up from 189 in 2013. In 2021, of the 121 examined wells, 85 per cent had water levels that were stable or increasing, six had moderate rates of decline, and nine had a large rate of decline. Those last wells are located at Dease Lake and Tumbler Ridge in the north, and the rest are scattered in the lower third of the province.
In 2021, GW levels also dropped in the Columbia Basin, a large area that covers 671,200 square kilometres across B.C. and seven U.S. states. Only 15 per cent of the Basin is in Canada, but this area contributes about
Groundwater levels are monitored in every province (the Northwest Territories and the Yukon monitor surface water levels). Some observation wells are monitored hourly and some are equipped with real-time measurement technology.
40 per cent of average river flows and about 40 per cent of runoff for the entire Basin, according to an agency called Living Lakes Canada (LLC). It operates the Columbia Basin Groundwater Monitoring Program that involves 22 wells owned by private landowners, local government, First Nations, Selkirk College and the Nature Trust of B.C.
Monitoring in 2021 showed water levels in three aquifers, two in the East Kootenay and one in the West Kootenay, were lower by 0.75 to one metre, compared to the year before.
ALBERTA
Alberta has been monitoring GW since the 1950s. Each of the 280 wells within the Groundwater Observation Well Network (GOWN) collects data hourly.
“More than 50 of the 280 wells use satellite or cellular-based telemetry to transmit real time GW levels to the GOWN and River Basins websites,” says Dr. John Orwin, director of watershed sciences at Alberta Environment and Parks. “Broad patterns in GW levels show considerable variability in response to climatic conditions across the province.”
Wells showed a clear decline and recovery from the 2002-03 drought, and an increase in GW levels following extreme rainfall in 2013. Levels in response to the 2021 drought vary with depth and location.
Prof. Masaki Hayashi at the University of Calgary is familiar with GW levels in aquifers around that city. He notes they went down during the drought of 20002003, 2009-2010 and 2015-2018.
Alberta Environment and Parks has partnered with the Alberta Geological Survey, which has already undertaken mapping of aquifer extent and other factors in areas of the province with higher population density, heavy industrial development (i.e., the Fox Creek and Oil Sands Areas) and others.
“On a broader provincial scale,” says Orwin, “estimates of GW availability on a watershed basis have been developed.”
There is strong water demand for various uses in southern Alberta, and new licences for water withdrawal from surface and aquifer sources are no longer issued. There is some irrigation in the region to ensure high yields of various higher-value crops. In late 2020, the government of Alberta announced a partnership with “irrigation districts” and the Canada Infrastructure Bank to invest $815 million in new irrigation projects (including the relocation of existing canals underground) in the coming years.
SASKATCHEWAN
GW levels have been relatively constant recently, according to the monitoring network of the province’s Water Security Agency. The 70 wells in the network,
in remote areas but also in areas with development, collect data on an hourly basis with some equipped with telemetry to obtain real-time readings.
“Historical GW levels from surficial aquifers showed peak elevations due to the flooding events in years 2010-2011,” says Agency spokesperson Sean Osmar. “A delayed response was observed in the aquifers with some wells reaching maximum levels in 2015. From 2015, the GW levels have slowly declined to near normal levels. In 2021, GW levels further declined from 2020 levels in the majority of the monitoring wells in shallow aquifers across Central and Southern Saskatchewan, but levels in the deeper and bedrock aquifer showed relatively minor fluctuations.”
MANITOBA
Monitoring the major aquifers in Manitoba has occurred since the mid 1960s. The Ministry of Environment reports that drought in the 1980s affected water levels throughout most of the province for some time, but they recovered during the decade after. Most areas with records from that time show that the lowest levels occurred between 1989 and 1994.
The dry 2021 weather meant little-tono spring recharge throughout much of the province with declines in all aquifer levels. The most affected aquifers were located in southeastern Manitoba and the Interlake areas, where water levels in the “carbonate aquifer” have been near or at the lowest level recorded. This resulted in pumps having to be lowered and new water supplies developed, especially for livestock producers who normally rely on spring-runoff to fill dugouts.
ONTARIO
In response to the 1998-99 drought, in 2001 the province established the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network (494 wells). The network also involves the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), 36 Ontario Conservation Authorities and the Severn Sound Environmental Association. Based on the data, there is no evidence of widespread decline in GW levels. The lowest levels occurred during years 2001, 2002, 2007 and 2012, with 2008 higher than normal.
Over time, equipment has been added to monitor rainfall amounts at 74 sites
PHOTO CREDIT: LIVING LAKES CANADA.
and soil moisture at 16 of the monitoring sites. In total, 130 wells have been upgraded with satellite tech to transmit hourly water level, rain and soil moisture data. In addition, over the last decade, the MECP has established a collaborative network of seven “Integrated Climate Change” stations across the province, monitored for weather and level and quality of water in streams and GW.
NOVA SCOTIA
The observation well network in Nova Scotia has been running since 1965, with 40 wells of which many are within one kilometre of the coast. Of these, nine have real-time monitoring.
In 2016, southwest Nova Scotia experienced the most severe drought since 1880, but some areas also experienced unusually low GW levels again in 2018 and 2020. Overall, over the past decade, half the wells show no statistically definable trends, with variations in water levels ranging from minus 3 to plus 4 centimetres per year.
“This shows a lot of variability across the province in average annual water
levels,” says Tracy Barron of Media Relations at Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change. “Most wells were included to represent and monitor natural/ambient conditions and not man-made changes, however, variances could be explained by local phenomena, increasing water demand from development, lessened GW withdrawals or greater recharge conditions.”
The province also has a communitybased water level monitoring network that focuses on 10 shallow-dug well aquifers. There is not enough information available for analysis yet, but anyone can view real time water levels.
stations. Levels over the last five years vary significantly, but many stations had their lowest levels in the fall of 2020 due to low precipitation that summer.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
There are 15 monitoring wells in P.E.I, many of which have been monitored for several decades.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Levels here were monitored from the early 1970s to 1993 using a Stevens F-type recorder coupled with manual observations, but the network was disbanded in 1993. A few years after, nine GW monitoring stations were established, maintained by the federal government in partnership with the province. Data has been consistently collected from 2005 onward for all
For decades, GW levels have been flat, but over the last decade, trending slightly higher. Specifically during the last few years, levels have fluctuated widely and setting new historic highs and lows; in 2021, GW level reached a historic high in the spring.
“There is evidence of a shift in seasonality,” reports the provincial environment ministry. “For example, GW levels largely increase from December to March, and largely decreases during May in the last several decades and more obviously in recent years. The reasons are earlier snow melt and precipitation pattern changes.”
Continued on page 16
LEVEL TRACKING
THE NEED FOR MONITORING
New film illustrates the importance of groundwater monitoring
Living Lakes Canada has released a new film that illustrates the importance of its groundwater monitoring program in the Canadian Columbia Basin.
Shot in British Columbia’s East Kootenay region, this short film provides an engaging rationale for the program, which partners with existing well owners to track groundwater levels and determine how they change seasonally and from year to year. Data is shared publicly for water users, water managers, researchers, decision makers and policy makers to protect and manage water impacted by climate change, overallocation, pollution, etc.
Based in Nelson, B.C., Living Lakes Canada works to enhance the protection, the restoration, the rehabilitation, and the health of watersheds in B.C. and across Canada. It facilitates collaboration in monitoring, restoration, and policy development initiatives for the longterm protection of Canada’s lakes, rivers, wetlands and watersheds impacted by climate risks.
The film’s release comes in time to coincide with World Water Day on March 22 – the theme of which is “Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible.”
The film is part of an ongoing series produced by LLC that showcases different aspects of community-based water monitoring. To watch the film, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mDv8GVpIBh0.
“The goal of the Upper Columbia
Basin groundwater monitoring program is to increase knowledge about groundwater resources to effectively inform sustainable water management and meet the needs of people and nature,” program manager Carol Luttmer says. “The foundation of this successful program are the well owners who volunteer their wells for monitoring. These include municipalities, First Nations, and private landowners.”
To date, the Living Lakes Canada Columbia Basin groundwater monitoring program has established 22 volunteer
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
observation wells. Data is made available on the Columbia Basin Water Hub (an open access database for water-related data in the Columbia Basin facilitated by LLC), and the province’s BC Realtime Water data. Groundwater data collected from some of the aquifers being monitored showed a decrease in water levels when comparing July 2021 to July 2020.
“Our groundwater work has international relevance,” Living Lakes Canada executive director Kat Hartwig says. “At the recent COP26 in Glasgow, world leaders with the Water & Climate Coalition announced water and climate can no longer be dealt with separately. This project is part of a Basin-wide monitoring network we have spearheaded to support all levels of decision makers for holistic water management. We engage and train citizens to help with the collection of standardized, scientifically defensible water data.”
She added the groundwater monitoring program is an effort to help communities engage in a proactive way rather than being reactive.
Learn more about Living Lakes Canada’s groundwater program at https://livinglakescanada.ca/project/ columbia-basin-groundwatermonitoring-program/.
Living Lakes Canada groundwater program manager Carol Luttmer, left, inspects a well with summer intern Ashley Dubois.
ELIMINATING PLASTIC WASTE
Focus on the Environment.
More than 70 leading businesses, organizations and governments have come together to release an ambitious action plan to eliminate plastic waste through the Canada Plastics Pact.
“Roadmap to 2025: A shared action plan to build a circular economy for plastics packaging” represents unprecedented cross-value chain collaboration, uniting key players behind a shared vision for a circular economy for plastics packaging in Canada and a targeted plan to drive tangible change by 2025.
The roadmap was developed through the engagement of leading industry, NGO, and public sector organizations, including brands, retailers, recyclers, resin producers, non-profits, associations, governments and others who together account for more than a third of the plastics packaging on the market in Canada. These leading organizations are collaborating to realize a circular economy for plastics in which those not needed are eliminated, and to innovate so the plastics that are needed can be reused, recycled or composted to be kept in the economy and out of the environment.
The roadmap presents a full picture of what is needed to aggressively advance action and what can be done next to achieve a circular economy for plastics packaging through three strategic priorities for 2025:
recyclability. Investments in new infrastructure. Address supply and demand issues to incorporate recycled resins. Ensure government policy is in place and well-designed.
• Use data to improve the whole system: Create standard definitions and measurement practices. Drive investment in better real-time data and monitoring.
“Key players share a vision for circular economy for Canadian plastics packaging.”
• Reduce, reuse, collect: Eliminate unnecessary and hard-to-recycle plastics. Drive innovation for reuse and refill models. Innovate to prevent waste from being created in the first place. Improve collection and recycling systems.
• Optimize the recycling system: Packaging design standards to improve
Currently, we are throwing valuable materials away, and there is significant material loss between the plastics that are generated to that which is collected, sorted and actually recycled, according to a news release. Innovation in technology and business models that will be generated through achieving a circular economy for plastics packaging will capture economic
value, deliver jobs, and position Canadian businesses competitively.
The CPP is following the precedents set in the roadmaps of other pacts across the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s global Plastics Pact Network to bring globally aligned direction and responses to plastic waste and pollution. The roadmap will accelerate progress towards the CPP’s four 2025 targets for plastics packaging and waste which partners of the CPP are required to report on annually. These are:
• Define a list of plastic packaging to be designated as problematic or unnecessary and take measures to eliminate them.
• 100 per cent of plastic packaging being designed to be reusable, recyclable or compostable.
• 50 per cent of plastic packaging is effectively recycled or composted.
• 30 per cent recycled content across all plastic packaging.
To read the Canada Plastics Pact’s Roadmap, visit roadmap.plasticspact.ca.
SHOWING THEIR TRUE GRIT
Graduates of Indigenous drinking water program adapted well during pandemic TRAINING
Eleven interns of a drinking water internship program for young Indigenous adults have graduated. Of the cohort, 91 per cent are now water operators in training, having earned their OIT certification.
The program is run by the Bimose Tribal Council in northwestern Ontario and Canadian charity Water First. It is funded in part by Indigenous Services Canada and Water First donors.
Graduates of the internship program are from 10 participating First Nations communities across the Bimose Tribal Council region and are supporting their communities to ensure clean drinking water.
“The grit that the interns demonstrated throughout the pandemic has been truly impressive,” Jag Saini, project manager and instructor with Water First, says. “Their ability to adapt is what stood out, especially learning new content virtually, which was originally designed as an in-person, hands-on program.”
The first six months of the project, beginning in 2020, were to consist of in-person workshops, hands-on projects, and a solid exam date at a predetermined location. Instead, while waiting for pandemic restrictions to lift, the interns situated themselves in front of computers in hotel rooms separate from one another, yet just close enough to be able to gain tech support should they need it during “in-person, virtual training” workshops.
Water First was also able to secure the final OIT exam location close to where the interns were located, instead of the interns having to travel extensively to take their exams.
These and other unconventional support structures have made all the difference in generating “a-ha moments” for the interns, which have been instrumental in such a high achievement rate. Strategies for learning the material in a variety of different ways have also been key to success. This new, blended model of virtual and onsite learning will influence the program for future cohorts.
Adam Peacock, technical services officer at Bimose Tribal Council, has been working with Water First for two years. He says about the program, “The time, effort, and persistence has
by WATER FIRST EDUCATION & TRAINING INC. AND BIMOSE TRIBAL COUNCIL
been remarkable. Our communities’ needs have been fulfilled at Bimose and I hope that other communities take advantage.”
In the late summer, as pandemic restrictions lifted, the interns provided meaningful support to water treatment plants in their communities, performing readings and samplings to offload some of the work throughout the term of their placements. In one instance, when the only operator had to take a sick day, the intern was able to keep the plant running, providing clean water to the community.
In another, the plant’s sole operator has been thinking of retirement yet had no replacement until the internship. In both cases, these new operators in training are now mentoring other interns.
“They are heroes without capes,” Jon Kocis, hub manager at Bimose Tribal Council, says. “The importance of the water treatment role is critical, and it’s often overlooked. It isn’t as glamorous as the role of paramedics or police officer, but,
Interns, community members and Water First staff gather during training session in summer 2021.
PHOTO
without it, communities would be in crisis just the same.”
Graduate Nathan Copenace, from Washagamis Bay First Nation, is committed to protecting his community’s water from contamination and learning more about how his community can develop their own source water protection plans.
“I found out why it was so important to understand what a water treatment plant operator is,” he says. “They don’t just make clean water – but water for emergencies like fires.”
Graduate Kim Greene of of Iskatewizaagegan 39 (Shoal Lake 39) says she joined the program to learn how to treat and provide safe drinking water to her community.
“Water is sacred in my culture, and very important to the giving of life to all things,” she says. “I especially want to provide safe drinking water to my daughter and mother, as well as my fellow community members.”
The OIT certification, issued by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, is the first step in becoming a fully certified water treatment plant operator. Graduates have spent the last 12 months gaining 1,800 hours of water plant experience and completing the entry-level course, in partnership with Walkerton Clean Water Centre, in preparation for their level-one certification exam.
Bimose Tribal Council and Water First began the full 18-month project in February 2020, on the heels of a successful pilot project between Water First and seven First Nations on Manitoulin Island, Ont.
Together with the United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising, Wiikwemkoong First Nation, and Anishinabek Nation, the partners trained 10 young Indigenous adults in drinking water and environmental water management. Within weeks of graduating, seven out of 10 interns secured work in their local water treatment plants or in the environmental water field, and one graduate pursued further water studies at college.
Many First Nations with drinking water challenges have identified the need for more young, qualified and local personnel to support solving water issues independently.
liability program designed to provide you with defense costs arising from an employee dispute or issue with one of the Ministries. (Labour, Environment, Revenue) COVERAGES INCLUDE:
Real-time monitoring of GW levels and other parameters is conducted at some wells on industrial sites that are not specifically part of an observation well network.
NORTHWEST TERRITORY
Surface water levels here are monitored
in 14 rivers and Great Slave Lake. Mike Westwick, spokesperson for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, says these levels have been extremely variable over the past few years and are dependent on precipitation. For example, Great Slave Lake levels were the lowest in the 80-year record during summer 2015, and highest during summer 2020.
YUKON
Overall surface water levels were above
average in 2021 and exceeded historical records in some cases, largely driven by well above-average snow packs in some basins. Snowpack and precipitation drive peak water levels, and the territory has experienced both extreme minimum and maximum levels in the last five years.
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
Westwick notes that climate change can impact water levels in the Northwest Territories, not just by affecting precipitation (more extreme rainfall events or drought, higher proportion of precipitation falling as rain instead of snow), but by the timing of snowmelt, and by changing the physical structure of the ground surface through permafrost thaw. He explains that, for example, large thaw slumps can increase the sediment load to northern rivers or change the way water moves through the ground. Scientists in the N.W.T. are measuring and documenting hydrological processes to better understand how our natural systems are changing.
In the Yukon, an increase in annual minimum surface water flows have been observed across the territory, with the largest positive trends in the continuous permafrost zone. This, says the Ministry of the Environment, is likely the result of increased groundwater storage and discharge due to permafrost degradation and increased active layer depth.
The P.E.I. Ministry of the Environment notes that climate change is affecting and will continue to affect GW in coastal communities with an increase in saltwater intrusion due to sea level rise, and also across the province with changes in the recharge rates of GW.
“For example, increases in storm events lead to more run-off and less recharge to the groundwater table. As another example, less snow leads to less spring melt and decreases in recharge to the groundwater table.”
Sea level rise aside, Barron in Nova Scotia notes that saltwater intrusion can be potentially affected by tidal ranges, geology, topography, geomorphology and location of wells. That province has developed a map that can help to evaluate risk at the local level.
Regarding the Prairies, Dr. James Byrne, a geography professor at the University of Lethbridge who has studied water and climate change for about
40 years, believes that climate change effects are likely to show up as periods of prolonged drought.
“GW levels will undergo increasing stress in the southern Prairies and this region will be dryer overall,” he says. “However, parts of Canada including the Prairies may see other weather extremes such as bouts of extreme precipitation,” such as what occurred in fall 2021 in British Columbia.
COMMUNITY MONITORING
In 2018, Living Lakes Canada in B.C. and two other groups convened a roundtable for recommending how the federal government can support and engage in community-based water monitoring (CBWM). There were more than 50 participants, including Indigenous and non-Indigenous CBWM practitioners and scientists. CBWM is described by LLC as “a powerful means of achieving shared water management and sustainability objectives,” but adds that “to realize the full potential of this growing movement, coordination and leadership is needed at the federal level, across departments and in concert with non-governmental actors.”
LLC executive director Kat Hartwig explains that out of the 60 recommendations created, in 2021, the CBWM coalition outlined a handful of key actions for the federal Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
“These actions focus,” she says, “on identifying regional CBWM leaders that can scale proven programs to establish cohesive regional monitoring initiatives, ensuring all water data is shared on open access platforms, and broadening and expanding federal funding for CBWM activities.”
LLC is already acting on these recommendations through the Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Collaborative, which it’s facilitating to establish a unified monitoring network in the Upper Columbia Basin. The Collaborative is based on a water balance approach guided by local priorities, as well as through the affiliated “Columbia Basin Water Hub” open-access database that launched in March 2021. (Data from the LLC Groundwater Monitoring Program is already housed in the Hub.)
As it is with many environmental parameters, funding for long-term
GW monitoring is patchy across the country – and in the view of LLC, unstable and insufficient. LLC Groundwater program manager Carol Luttmer notes that in addition to provincial programs, there are several excellent community-based programs already running in various provinces, collecting GW level data similar to the Columbia Basin program. These local programs provide a cost-effective way to collect data that otherwise would not be collected.
“We are sharing ideas and information,” she says. “However, these programs really need long-term sustained funding. The development of a network of networks would help share best practices and allow for expansion in data-deficient areas. With the impacts of climate change it’s critical that we have site specific data for different aquifers so GW can be effectively protected and managed to meet the needs of people and nature at the aquifer scale.”
Treena Hein is based in Ontario.
Heavy fiberboard bracket for movement of contacts - strongerwithstands more heat
Heavy brass wire connections with stainless steel set screws inside brass tube - can hold
V-125X
Lb Pull Back
V-12
Lb Pull Back
V-140X
Lb Pull Back
WATER CRISIS
NIGHTMARE IN THE NORTH
Drinking water crisis in Iqaluit, Nunavut is finally resolved after more than two months
The past few months were a trying time for residents of Nunavut’s capital city. The roughly 8,000 residents of Iqaluit were caught in the midst of a water crisis that had its beginnings in early October.
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
Its drinking water was deemed unsafe for human consumption following a string of events that lingered for more than two months until health officials finally declared it safe to drink on Dec. 10.
The situation in Iqaluit started simple enough, with complaints posted on Facebook about an odour coming from the tap water and reports of headaches and dizziness. Such occurrences were first reported on Oct. 2, and, since then, a rollercoaster ride ensued over the subsequent weeks, with unanswered questions, the involvement of Canada’s military, labour issues, and the call for political action.
Although Iqaluit’s drinking water can be safely consumed again, residents have been told a lingering odour may still persist upon first turning on the taps. The city has suggested the smell should disappear within 20 minutes of taps running.
The following is a timeline of events that transpired during the more-than-two-month water crisis in Iqaluit.
Oct. 2: Residents complain about odours coming from their drinking water with some claiming to suffer headaches and dizziness.
Oct. 4: Water samples are taken from several areas at Iqaluit’s water treatment plant, but tests come back clean. The city says test results are satisfactory, suggesting chlorine may have been the cause of the reported odours.
Oct. 12: The city detects a strong gas smell coming from a containment tank for holding
water treatment chemicals. The city hires an engineering firm to further investigate, but recommends residents refrain from drinking tap water. An emergency meeting of Government of Nunavut officials is called with the suspicion that a petroleum product has entered the water system. Water trucked in from the Sylvia Grinnell River is distributed, but the city suggests water should be boiled before it is consumed.
Oct. 13: The water issue prompts the closure of government buildings during the afternoon while 80,000 litres of bottled water are flown in from the south and distributed.
Oct. 14: A state of emergency is declared in Iqaluit by the Government of Nunavut to protect the public’s health and city infrastructure. Shipments of bottled water are gone within hours after arrival with more to be delivered in the days ahead.
Oct. 15: Tests reveal high concentrations of fuel in a water storage tank. Nunavut chief public health officer Dr. Michael Patterson issues a do-not-drink advisory until the city can flush its system.
Oct. 21: The city tells its residents it is doing everything in its power to ensure the community has safe and reliable drinking water.
Oct. 24: The city completes its first round of flushing Iqaluit’s water pipes while the in-ground tank containing the high concentrations of contaminants in the water
treatment plant are isolated, pumped out for remediation and cleaned. The ongoing investigation suggests potential hydrocarbon contamination in the soil and/or ground water outside the water treatment plant may have leached into the affected tank.
Oct. 27: The city says it expects the latest tests to show undetectable levels of fuel in the drinking water. An old fuel spill in the ground beside the treatment plant is found and thought likely to have contaminated the water. Canadian Armed Forces personnel is called in to help with the water emergency.
Nov. 3: The drinking water is said to meet national standards, but a review by the territory’s chief public health officer is necessary before a do-not-consume order can be lifted.
Nov. 8: Now into the fourth week of the crisis, Canadian Armed Forces personnel set up a reverse osmosis purification system of water drawn from the Sylvia Grinnell River. The purified water is made available at water filling stations in the city. Residents and businesses on trucked water services return to a do-not-consume order.
Nov. 9: Responsibility for the cause of Iqaluit’s water crisis remains
undetermined as the issue approaches a full month.
Nov. 11: The onslaught of winter and plummeting temperatures challenge the military to continue its reverse osmosis strategy in drawing water from the river.
Nov. 15: Most of the community’s contaminated water is found in the north tank. The engineering firm hired to eliminate the contamination can’t predict when the do-not-consume order might be lifted.
Nov. 16: Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh says he plans to push the federal government to spend the money needed to fix Iqaluit’s water infrastructure. Iqaluit council also approves construction of a bypass around the contaminated ground tanks at the city’s water treatment plant. A special meeting is held to discuss the matter. Water from Lake Geraldine could bring water around the tanks and go through an ultraviolet light treatment and chlorination process before entering the above-ground holding tank and distribution system.
Nov. 17: The Canadian military’s assistance is extended for the operation of its water purification system. An additional 12 personnel is to join the 23 troops on site.
Nov. 23: To help oversee the distribution of water to city residents, additional help is hired at a pay rate of $33.67 an hour. Dwindling volunteer energy triggers the need to hire additional help.
Nov. 24: A tent covering purified water holding tanks collapses, forcing military personnel to suspend water pumping operations from the Sylvia Grinnell River. The Canadian Armed Forces run two temporary water purification units to enable local residents to fill jugs of drinkable water.
Nov. 30: Plummeting temperatures adversely affect the military’s reverse osmosis strategy. Military trucks are used to transport river water to an existing military facility to be purified without risk to personnel exposed to bitter winds.
Dec. 1: The crisis surpasses 50 days without an end in sight. The situation creates a staffing shortage in the city, with recreational staff distributing bottled water.
Dec. 10: After more than 60 days, the city’s drinking water is deemed safe for consumption. Lingering odours are said to disappear if tap water is allowed to run for 20 minutes.
Beginning with a foul odour in early October, the Nunavut capital city of Iqaluit went without potable drinking water until December.
ARSENIC ELIMINATION
USask researchers developing affordable way to rid harmful toxin from water
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan are developing an affordable method to remove arsenic from water. They are turning agricultural waste, such as wheat and canola straw, into a filter that adsorbs the toxin.
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
Khaled Zoroufchi Benis, of the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Engineering, is using the Canadian Light Source to help develop agricultural waste into a filter that can remove arsenic from drinking water.
More than 200 million people in more than 70 countries, including some in Canada, are drinking water with a high concentration of arsenic, the university said in a news release. This international risk to human health can cause cancer, nausea and blood vessel damage.
Khaled Zoroufchi Benis, a Vanier Scholar and PhD candidate with the College of Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. His team, which includes Benis’ supervisors, Prof. Jafar Soltan and Prof. Kerry McPhedranis, is using the Canadian Light Source at USask to make their water purifying process more efficient. The BXDS, HXMA, and BioXASSpectroscopy beamlines utilize synchrotron light millions of times brighter than the sun to reveal detailed information about their filter.
The team’s invention could help put agricultural residues to good use. Currently,
Canada annually produces about 47 million tonnes of these residues.
The Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan is a national research facility, producing the brightest light in Canada — millions of times brighter than even the sun. The CLS hosts annually more than 1,000 scientists from around the world who use our light to conduct health, agricultural, environmental and advanced materials research. The Canada Foundation for Innovation, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, National Research Council of Canada, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Government of Saskatchewan and the University of Saskatchewan fund CLS operations.
To watch a video about the university’s research project, visit https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=TnlllacjawI
GOLF TOURNAMENT, WEBSITE, MEMBER MAP KEEPING US BUSY
Hi, everyone.
I hope that you have all had a great fall and are enjoying the holiday season. We have been busy here at the OGWA, starting off with our annual golf tournament at the Conestoga Golf Club. It was a great success, having the most golfers since our event started, and we raised almost $10,000 for the scholarship fund! Thank you so much for all of your support and for the generous donations of prizes and silent auction items from our suppliers. I would also like to extend a big thank you to our staff and volunteers for making the tournament such a wonderful event.
Unfortunately, with regards to the pandemic, it seems as if the new normal is here to stay. Many of us now have two shots, and some are scheduling their third in the coming weeks. With new variants and evolving guidance from our health professionals, we all still need to remain vigilant. I heard the analogy on the radio that navigating the pandemic is a lot like being a defensive driver – the worse the rest of the people drive, the more careful you need to be. We also need to show our employees, co-workers, suppliers, customers and all of those with whom we interact, that we are aware of what is
IN MEMORIAM
Simon David Smith
out there and try to keep everyone safe.
The OGWA staff has continued to work hard with regards to the Regional training meetings. We have been back and forth with the MOE, venues, course presenters and others to coordinate the scheduling and presentation of the meetings, both in-person and online. We have tentative dates set now for all of our traditional locations and will have more news coming soon.
The Budget committee, led by our treasurer, has also been hard at work preparing the budget for next year. As you can understand, the uncertainty of our ability to hold an in-person AGM/ convention, alterations to the timing and composition of the Regional training meetings, and changing government support programs have made this process more difficult than in years past. The OGWA board of directors will be confirming the budget in the coming weeks as we continue our behind-the-scenes work of critical association functions.
Work has also continued on the OGWA website, with more updates coming in all the time. The new map of members has gone live. It is a Google Maps-based interactive map that allows customers to search for members in their area. Be sure to click on yourself in the map and confirm that all of your contact information is up to date. Membership renewals are also on their way to your in-box/ mail-box. Make sure to get your renewal submitted so you can continue to access all of the great member benefits.
I wish you all a warm and happy holiday season. Take a break from your hectic schedules and enjoy the special moments with your families and loved ones. Be healthy. Be safe. Be well.
MATT WILSON, President
INSIDE THE ISSUE
Executive Director’s Report
A plan for Regional CEC meeting dates
OGWA golf tournament
A look back at September’s successful event
The family of Simon David Smith of Kimberley has announced his passing on Nov. 18, 2021, in his 77th year. He was the father of Stan (Chris) Smith of Milton, and Julie (Maurice) St. Jules of Guelph and was “Papa” to grandchildren, Megan (Ryan), Kenzie (Ben) and Justin (Lexi). He is also remembered by his sister, Pippa (Paul) Winters.
Simon’s family immigrated to Canada from England when he was seven. They settled in the Ottawa area and, at the age of 14, his father passed, which led Simon to leave school and become a well driller to support his family. His career started with Johnson Drilling in Ottawa which led to him starting his own company, S. D. Smith Drilling Co. Ltd. He was the first to adapt a drill rig for caissons in the construction business supporting such buildings as the CN Tower, Eaton Centre and other established Bay Street Towers.
OGWA membership application
Time to apply or renew
CFIB benefits
Our partner, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, has many benefits and resources to help you
PUBLISHED FOR THE ONTARIO GROUND WATER ASSOCIATION
750 Talbot St., St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2
Phone: 519-245-7194
Fax: 519-245-7196
Email: ogwa@ogwa.ca
Administrative Assistant
Phone: 519-245-7194, ext.101
Fax: 519-245-7196
Email: admin@ogwa.ca
Executive Director
Phone: 519-245-7194, ext. 103
Cell: 519-282-0063
Email: executivedirector@ogwa.ca
EXECUTIVE
MATT WILSON President
DWAYNE GRAFF 1st Vice-President
KYLE SMITH 2nd Vice-President
STEPHEN BLEIZEFFER Treasurer/ Secretary
BRYAN WATSON Past President
DIRECTORS
BILL BEATON
Lotowater Technical Services Inc.
519-442-2086 Fax: 519-442-7242
STEPHEN BLEIZEFFER
Lackner McLennan Insurance Ltd.
519-579-3330 Fax: 519-579-1151
PAUL CONRAD
Conrad Well Drilling Ltd.
705-378-9578
DWAYNE GRAFF
Well Initiatives Ltd. 519-846-8289 Fax: 519-846-8281
BRUCE HIETKAMP GeoKamp Limited 905-825-8007 Fax: 905-825-9006
Canadian Pipe & Pump Supply Ltd. 416-244-6476 Fax: 416- 241-2022
JEFFERY MCCRACKEN Franklin Electric 647-641-2178
KYLE SMITH
Aardvark Drilling Inc. 519-826-9340 Fax: 519-826-9108
BRYAN WATSON
Hart & Sons Well Drilling Ltd. 705-887-3331 Fax 705-887-4788
MATTHEW D. WILSON
J.B. Wilson & Son Well Drilling Ltd. 519-639-9988 Fax: 519-269-3552
A PLAN FOR REGIONALS & GOLF SUPPORT THANKS
As I write this, the signs of the impending weather change to winter are making themselves evident. The days of draining pumps and pipes for overnight stays on the worksite are front of mind, and it will soon be time to pack up for the season. I trust the season has gone well for you, and I know many of you are in the enviable position of having a list of jobs booked for next year.
The elephant in the room this year has been continuing education credits/regional meetings and the COVID pandemic. We have worked very diligently and put many hours into trying to plan meetings under COVID restrictions, to digitally project meetings, and, finally, to negotiate a practical renewal date that will allow us to present in our typical format the Regional meetings required to cover the credits/hours the licensees’ members – or not – require.
As you should know by now the continuing education credit (CEC) situation around reporting is no longer the issue it had become with the Nov. 1 deadline for filing credits. This is a credit to our hard work on behalf of you, our members. The deadline for reporting 2021 hours has been moved to comply with the regular date for renewals in March 2022. So, in fact, you now have had to, or must, submit seven hours for 2021 and your seven hours for 2022 with your renewal application and payment by the end of March 2022. Whatever the sequence, you must have a total of 14 hours submitted for the two years.
So, all of this leads us to when’s and where’s for these long-overdue Regional CEC meetings. We are still under the influence of COVID restrictions which makes planning these a nightmare as one size does not fit all. Each medical officer of health has slightly different regulations. With that said, locations and dates are tentatively set. We will present two days back-to-back in all locations but Walkerton. We were able to present a face-toface 2021 meeting in Walkerton.
Therefore, subject to all COVID-related restrictions (including proof of double vaccinations), it is our plan to offer two days in Perth, Jan. 10 and 11; Lindsay, the 12th & 13th; Walkerton, (only the 2022 course), Feb. 7; Springfield, Feb. 22 and 23; North Bay, March 1 and 2; followed by Thunder Bay later in March.
There are a total of 63 members who prepaid for their 2021 courses. We will be in touch with these members to access their wishes and then open the registrations again. Unfortunately, there is the real possibility seats will be limited, so I advise you to renew your membership promptly. We did not offer any access to non-members in 2021 and may also be in that same position for 2022. Only after we are assured all members who wish to attend have registered, will we open registrations to non-members.
The new search map on the website has recently gone live. It is tied to Google Maps and allows the searcher to focus on an area and pull up the contact information of an OGWA member. We hope this will make it easier for the public to reach you and drive business in your direction. Please make sure you have your members’ profiles fully filled in, especially the geographic areas you will work in and any special services or equipment you possess. Look at everything offered on the website and let us know what you think. We welcome any ideas you may offer.
I want to personally thank all of you who supported the annual OGWA Scholarship Golf Tournament. This was our best year yet – $10,187.74 was deposited directly into the golf fund. The silent auction tied to the tournament was hugely responsible by raising $7,420 of that total amount. Our big benefactors were Epiroc, which donated a Down-the-Hole Hammer along with Heron Instruments’ double donation of their Dipper T-60 w/case and H2GO Drop Inspection Camera and topped off by the donation of an Acer Laptop by Rideau Supply. Many, many smaller donations of hats, pens, golf paraphernalia, shirts, and safety kits were received from many of our loyal M & S supporters, which we used for draw prizes and giveaways. I want to personally thank Colleen Cross and Sharon Kauk – my star volunteers from Ground Water Canada, without whose help I wouldn’t have coped.
All the best wishes for the New Year.
CRAIG STAINTON, Executive Director
WELL WISE WATER
TESTING PROGRAM
Administered by the Ontario Ground Water Association
In Ontario, well owners should test their water quality regularly until it can be considered stable. Bacteriological testing is provided by the Ministry of Health at no charge to property owners and Well Wise does not offer those tests.
To be sure of what your water contains be it natural or man-made contaminants we recommend your water be tested at minimum for Metals, Minerals & Salts. Drilled wells are generally stable, however shallow wells, surface water sources or wells influenced by surface water should be checked more frequently.
The only way to tell if your drinking water is safe is by having it tested.
Test Packages offered include: Metals/Minerals/Salts, Solvents, Fuels, Mercury, Fluoride, Sulphide, Tannin/Lignin, Glyphosates & OP Pesticides/Herbicides. This test will provide a general chemistry of your water. The minimum recommended testing is the Metals, Minerals & Salts package.
1,2-Dichloropropane Xylenes, total cis-1,3-Dichloropropylene
Fluoride Anions
Sulphide
General Inorganics
Sulphide
Tannin/Lignin
General Inorganics
Tannin & Lignin
Glyphosates (Roundup)
Glyphosates Fuels
Volatiles Hydrocarbons
Benzene
Ethylbenzene
Toluene
m/p-Xylene
o-Xylene
Xylenes, total
F1 PHCs (C6-C10)
F2 PHCs (C10-C16)
F3 PHCs (C16-C34)
F4 PHCs (C34-C50)
For more information or to order a test visit: http://www.ogwa.ca/ resources/wellwise
Send your order form to: wellwise@ogwa.ca
Difficulties or to order by phone call: (519) 245-7194 extension 101 Return shipping is included with your order.
OGWA GOLF TOURNAMENT
ENJOYS LARGEST FIELD, MOST MONEY RAISED
September’s fifth annual Ontario Ground Water Association Scholarship Golf Tournament, played at the Conestoga Golf and Conference Centre in Conestogo, was a smash success.
It was the association’s most successful tournament to date, raising $10,187.74 and drawing the highest number of participants.
The silent auction portion of the event contributed to $7,420 of the total amount raised. Generous donations toward the silent auction were made by Epiroc, which provided a Down-theHole Hammer, Heron Instruments, which provided a Dipper T-60 w/case and H2GO Drop Inspection Camera, and Rideau Supply, which provided an Acer Laptop. A large number of smaller donations were made, including hats, pens, golf paraphernalia, shirts, and safety kits that were made available as draw prizes and giveaways.
Plans are already underway for the 2022 tournament, scheduled again for September.
All photos taken by Ground Water Canada
A long approach shot.
A relaxed mood.
The OWGA Scholarship Golf Tournament Trophy.
All the president’s (Matt Wilson, in green shirt) men.
Striking a winning pose
HEALTH & SAFETY REPORT
STAYING HEALTHY AMID COVID-19
Hello to all!
Well it’s been quite the past year plus, hasn’t it! Your executive director continues to work very hard on trying to bring the Regionals to you in person, provincial guidelines permitting.
One of the challenges that I, as a health and safety professional, have encountered is the ability to be able to connect in a meaningful way with my clients, you and the members of my WSIB H & S Excellence program. Like many, I have mastered Zoom and, while not ideal, it does provide us with an alternative during these still difficult times. However, nothing seems to replace that “in person” contact that we had, as I am sure you would agree!
You may have seen that the numbers for
COVID-19 are increasing again in the Province of Ontario. This is why it is so very important for us all to continue to practise physical distancing, mask wearing and sanitizing our hands.
In the past week, I have had four positive cases reported to me that were contracted in the workplace. As a reminder, if you have a work-related exposure, you must contact the WSIB (use the Form 7) and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. There are reporting timelines to be met!
Other Ontario health and safety updates:
The MLTSD opened a couple of consultation papers in 2021. My WSIB group put a submission in for some of these! Look for changes to come in the future in the areas of first aid, notice of project (if you are a general
contractor) and tower cranes (if you use those).
The chief prevention officer has changed! Our wonderful Ron Kelusky decided to retire, and we have Dr. Joel Moody who has replaced him. I am looking forward to connecting with him once he settles in!
As this year comes to a close, I wish you a safe and Merry Christmas, Hannukah or your preferred choice of celebration! All the very best for the New Year!
Ellaline J. Davies, P.GSC, CHSO, CHSR, Exemplar Global: ISO45001 Lead Auditor, Exemplar Global: ISO45001 Lead Management Consultant, Exemplar Global ID. 115238
President, Safety Works Consulting Inc
The silent auction provided a tremendous fundraising boost.
Among our many tournament supporters.
On their way to the next tee.
Not a good place to look for a lost ball.
ONTARIO GROUND WATER ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
Ontario Ground Water Association Membership Benefits
Ontario Ground Water Association Membership Benefits
The OGWA has negotiated special Corporate Membership rates with the 3 district areas in Ontario with CAA. Please remember besides roadside assistance CAA offer members discountson many goods and services. CAA Members can enjoy the features and services offered by affiliate auto clubs across North America and around the world.
The OGWA has negotiated special Corporate Membership rates with the 3 district areas in Ontario with CAA. Please remember besides roadside assistance CAA offer members discounts on many goods and services. CAA Members can enjoy the features and services offered by affiliate auto clubs across North America and around the world.
Enjoy all the Benefits brought to you by being associated with the NGWA, as a member of the Ontario Ground Water Association you will have access to many of the programs and offerings brought to you by the largest groundwater association in the world.
Enjoy all the Benefits brought to you by being associated with the NGWA, as a member of the Ontario Ground Water Association you will have access to many of the programs and offerings brought to you by the largest groundwater association in the world.
As the largest insurer of groundwater contractors in Canada, Lackner McLennan Insurance has made available a unique and taylor-made product covering all aspects of your insurance requirements. Starting back in 1992 they have continued to service the industry’s changing requirements and have earned the trust of over 200 professional groundwater companies. Your company’s assets are your investment and Lackner McLennan will provide you the protection required for you Automobiles, Buildings, Contents, Equipment and Commercial Liability.
As the largest insurer of groundwater contractors in Canada, Lackner McLennan Insurance has made available a unique and taylor-made product covering all aspects of your insurance requirements. Starting back in 1992 they have continued to service the industryʼs changing requirements and have earned the trust of over 200 professional groundwater companies. Your companyʼs assets are your investment and Lackner McLennan will provide you the protection required for you Automobiles, Buildings, Contents, Equipment and Commercial Liability.
Recently through the Economical Insurance Company, we can now offer a reduced cost Home and Automobile insurance product available to all your employees. This offering is an employment benefit that comes to you at no cost. Have your employees call direct for savings on their personal insurance requirements.
Recently through the Economical Insurance Company, we can now offer a reduced cost Home and Automobile insurance product available to all your employees. This offering is an employment benefit that comes to you at no cost. Have your employees call direct for savings on their personal insurance requirements.
Thrifty Car Rental services offers special member rates and benefits throughout all their North American locations and access to their Blue-Chip Express Rental Program with availability to commercial vehicles - pickups and vans.
Thrifty Car Rental services offers special member rates and benefits throughout all their North American locations and access to their Blue-Chip Express Rental Program with availability to commercial vehicles - pickups and vans.
GOSTWEAR provides good quality Canadian and American made work wear for you and your employees. Please visit their website and take advantage of free shipping on orders over $149.00 - https://www.gostwear.com
GOSTWEAR provides good quality Canadian and American made work wear for you and your employees. Please visit their website and take advantage of free shipping on orders over $149.00 - https://www.gostwear.com
Choice Hotels is Canada’s largest lodging chain with over 270 hotels coast to coast. They offer 8 distinct brands at different budget levels providing more lodging choices than any other hotel chainin the world. Choice Hotels also represents hotel brands in 46 countries with more than 4700 locations. Offering a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee to our members or there is no charge for your room.
Choice Hotels is Canadaʼs largest lodging chain with over 270 hotels coast to coast. They offer 8 distinct brands at different budget levels providing more lodging choices than any other hotel chain in the world. Choice Hotels also represents hotel brands in 46 countries with more than 4700 locations. Offering a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee to our members or there is no charge for your room.
OGWA Members’ Newest Benefit Program. 1% above dealer invoice pricing! As a member of the Ontario Ground Water Association, you can purchase or lease a new Ford or Lincoln vehicle from Parkway Ford Lincoln Waterloo. When it comes to your bottom line, your membership in the OGWA pays dividends.
OGWA Members' Newest Benefit Program. 1% above dealer invoice pricing! As a member of the Ontario Ground Water Association, you can purchase or lease a new Ford or Lincoln vehicle from Parkway Ford Lincoln Waterloo. When it comes to your bottom line, your membership in the OGWA pays dividends.
Discover the value CFIB has to offer its members. Get resources from business experts, access webinars and templates for common HR issues. Get exclusive discounts on payment processing, banking, payroll, shipping and more. Have your say with policies that affect your business, as CFIB is your strong voice for Canadian Businesses and included in your OGWA Membership.
Perkopolis is Canada’s leading provider of fully managed perk programs, continually sourcing exclusive, high-value offers, rewards, and benefits. Get savings on entertainment, travel, shopping, dining and more! Included in your OGWA membership.
ONTARIO GROUND WATER ASSOCIATION
NEW MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL *RETURNING MEMBER
* NOTE: If your Membership has lapsed in the last 3 years and you are re-applying there is a $100 re-instatement fee
New, renewing or returning members of the OGWA are required to log-in to the Members Only section and create/update their profile There are many benefits to the “members only portal” including a robust search engine for the public You can effectively advertise the services your business has to offer and the preferred geographical area in which you work Your OGWA membership entitles you to automatically become a member of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) and the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) Information on your profile will be listed in those memberships Please keep you profile current. accurate.
COMPANY INFORMATION:
COMPANY NAME:
MAIN CONTACT NAME:
ADDRESS: CITY:
PROVINCE: POSTAL CODE
CONTACT EMAIL:
BILLING EMAIL:
BUS PHONE: CELL: FAX:
CONTRACTORS MECP LICENCE NUMBER: EXPIRY DATE :
MANDITORY: MECP CONTRACTOR LICENCE NUMBER REQUIRED FOR ALL QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS
CHOOSE YOUR MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY/DIVISION CONTRACTORS
Groundwater Contractor with 1 Licenced Technician $395 00
Groundwater Contractor with 2 Licenced Technicians $490 00
Groundwater Contractor with 3 Licenced Technicians $585 00
Groundwater Contractor with 4 Licenced Technicians $680 00
Groundwater Contractor with 5 Licenced Technicians $775 00
Groundwater Contractor with 6 Licenced Technicians $870 00
Groundwater Contractor with 7 Licenced Technicians $965 00
with 1 Salesperson/Associate
Supplier with 2 Salesperson/Associate
Supplier with 3 Salesperson/Associate
Supplier with 4 Salesperson/Associate
Supplier with 5 Salesperson/Associate
Supplier with 6 Salesperson/Associate
More than 6? See checkout on next page
MANUFACTURERS
Manufacturers with 1 Associate
Scientist/Engineers <10 Ground Water Professionals
Scientist/Engineers 10-20 Ground Water Professionals
Scientist/Engineers >20 Ground Water Professionals
GOVERNMENT AND ASSOCIATES SCIENTISTS/ENGINEERS
An individual or organization interested in the welfare and success of the Ground Water Industry but unable to be classified in any other of our membership categories may apply to this division/category. Please note, this division/category receives no voting power.
$550 00
$875 00
$1350 00
$130 00
Manufacturers with 2 Associate
Manufacturers with 3 Associate
Manufacturers with 4 Associate
Manufacturers with 5 Associate
Manufacturers with 6 Associate
ONLY COMPANY NAMES, BUNDLE MANAGERS, ENROLLED SALESPERSONS AND ASSOCIATES WILL APPEAR IN OUR PRINTED MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY THEY WILL HAVE ACCESS TO THE MEMBERS’ ONLY PORTAL AND WILL BE SEARCHABLE ON OUR WEBSITE ALL UN PAID STAFF LISTED IN YOUR PROFILE WILL NOT RECEIVE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS WHEN REGISTERING FOR EVENTS AND WILL BE BILLED AT THE NON-MEMBERS RATES.
REQUIRED: All Licensed Technicians, Ground Water Professional and Association Members: Names, contact details and MOE License numbers of Licenced Well Technicians or Ground Water Professionals employed by Company (including owner or manager if applicable). Complete additional pages if necessary. The OGWA will send updates to the addresses and emails indicated.
A DRY FUTURE AWAITS BASIN
Study projects Colorado River Basin could see 29 per cent decline in its baseflow by 2050s
Anew study projects that a hot and dry future climate may lead to a 29 per cent decline in Upper Colorado River Basin “baseflow” at the basin outlet by the 2050s, affecting both people and ecosystems.
Baseflow is the movement of groundwater into streams and, on average, accounts for more than half of annual streamflow in the Upper Colorado River Basin. It is vital for sustaining flows in the Colorado River during dry periods. Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and the Bureau of Reclamation modelled temperature, precipitation and runoff data to understand more about how baseflow may change under three future climate scenarios.
“Many studies project streamflow and runoff response to climate change in the Upper Colorado River Basin, but this is the first to look at the baseflow component of total streamflow,” USGS hydrologist Olivia Miller, lead author of the paper, says. “Understanding how baseflow may respond to climate change is particularly important for water managers when it comes to ensuring sufficient water supply outside the spring runoff period and has critical implications for ecosystem health.”
The Upper Colorado River Basin has a drainage area of about 114,000 square miles, covering portions of Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. The Continental Divide marks the eastern boundary of the basin whereas the western boundary is defined by the Wasatch Mountains. The Wind River and Wyoming Ranges form the northern border, and the southern portion includes the San Juan Basin. From 1984 to 2012, total streamflow deliveries from the upper basin’s outlet at Lees Ferry, Ariz., to the Lower Colorado River Basin averaged 10.3 million acre-feet/year (maf/yr). Baseflow accounted for nearly a third of this (2.8 maf/yr).
The study predicts that baseflow deliveries to the Lower Colorado River Basin may decline overall by the end of the 21st century in spite of potential increases in precipitation and baseflow in some areas.
Three climate scenarios were modelled: under a warm, wet scenario, total baseflow at Lees Ferry is projected to initially
by THE UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
increase by up to six per cent (0.162 maf/yr) in the 2030s but then level out in the 2050s and ultimately decline by three per cent from today’s levels (0.089 maf/yr) by the 2080s. Under a hot, dry climate scenario, baseflow is predicted to decline by up to 23 per cent (0.657 maf/yr) in the 2030s and continue to worsen over time, reaching 29 per cent (0.835 maf/yr) in the 2050s and 33 per cent (0.940 maf/yr) in the 2080s. An intermediate climate scenario also showed a steady decline over time.
The study authors hypothesize that baseflow declines would occur due to increases in stream water loss from processes such as evapotranspiration. The largest declines in the model occur in the Rocky Mountains and in the headwaters of the Green River.
Declines in baseflow have major downstream and basin-wide effects in an area where water demand often exceeds supply.
In addition to the 40 million people who rely on the Colorado River for recreational, agricultural, municipal, spiritual and hydropower uses, baseflow decline has major impacts on riverbank, water and land ecosystems.
“This region is experiencing exceptional drought conditions and record-low reservoir levels at Lake Mead and Lake Powell,” Katharine Dahm, USGS Rocky Mountain Region senior scientist, says.
The Colorado River flowing though the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
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Solinst Canada Ltd. has introduced a new addition to its groundwater samplers product line – the Model 415 12V submersible pump provides an efficient means of purging and obtaining groundwater samples from two-inch OD monitoring wells.
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The Solinst 12V submersible pump is ideal when sampling using three volume purge protocols or performing constant head tests in high K (hydraulic conductivity environments). For use in environments with high suspended solids, an optional in-line disposable filter threads onto the pump’s intake. solinst.com
MAGFORCE DELIVERS HIGH PERFORMANCE, COST SAVINGS, SIMPLE START-UP
Franklin Electric Company Inc. has introduced a solution for pumping power at maximum efficiency: MagForce High Efficiency Systems.
Powered by permanent magnet motor technology, the systems are engineered to not only provide high performance and simple start-up, but also incredible long-term cost savings. In fact, in field trial testing, the systems delivered electrical cost savings as a result of a 90 per cent efficiency rating in the motor. For owners and operators, this can translate to an investment payback of less than two years in most long- or continuous-run applications.
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“Groundbreaking efficiency is really just the start of the benefits this system offers to users,” Chris Schantz, global director, product management, Vertical Pumping Systems, said. “This technology makes the motor lighter and easier to handle than standard induction motors and, like all submersible pumping solutions, minimizes its above ground footprint when compared to other highefficiency systems. Plus, since all components come from Franklin Electric, the system is
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MagForce High Efficiency Systems are available with three motor size choices to cover pump horsepower ranging from 7.5 to 60. This streamlined selection provides simplified inventory management.
franklin-electric.com
NCX SERIES EXPLOSIONPROOF SUBMERSIBLE NON-CLOG PUMPS MAKE WATER TRANSFER SAFER
Municipal infrastructure operators are getting a new and safer solution for robust wastewater transfer with the launch of the new NCX Series of Explosion-Proof Submersible Non-Clog Pumps
from FPS, a brand of Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
These pumps are certified for use in Class 1, Division 1 and Group C and D hazardous location requirements, making them ideal for municipal markets as well as any commercial or industrial application that requires an explosion-proof rating.
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NCX Series Explosion-Proof Non-Clog Pumps are available in single- and three-phase power options to accommodate flows up to 625 gpm. Each unit is designed for overall serviceability and reliability with durability-conscious features like a field-adjustable wear plate, factory-standard dual silicon carbide mechanical seals, and chemical-resistant components.
Non-Clog Control Panels designed exclusively for the NCX Series Submersible Non-Clog Pumps are also available for complete systems integration.
franklinengineered.com
The after effects of B.C.’s year from hell
Wildfires, heat dome and flooding challenge province
by Dave Mercer
The word “unprecedented” gets used quite a lot these days, but, when looking back on 2021 in British Columbia, it is certainly fitting. The combination of extreme weather events and a global pandemic has had adverse effects across the province, and the groundwater industry is no exception.
From supply chain challenges and labour shortages affecting groundwater businesses to drought, wildfires and flooding threatening water supplies, B.C. has seen it all this year. We’re not out of it yet by any means, but here’s a quick summary of what the BC Groundwater Association has observed this year and where we’re headed in 2022.
Demand for groundwater-related services was high at the beginning of 2021 and continued to increase throughout the year. Some water well drillers had 40 or more jobs in the pipeline with no signs of it letting up all year. Many pump installers reported similar demand loads. Yet as the year progressed, global supply chain issues primarily related to the pandemic became more prominent, with pipe and parts becoming scarce.
To complicate matters, labour shortages, as seen in many other industries, increasingly began to affect ours, especially in the trades. Rigs have been sitting dormant as experienced drillers and drillers’ helpers became increasingly hard to find. Pump companies have been experiencing the same. We heard reports of operators coming out of retirement to try and keep up with demand. The year 2021 was getting off to a bumpy start.
Come summer, an already challenging year became even more so. Between June 25 and July 1 British Columbia experienced a heat dome with record temperatures across the province reaching up to 49.60 degrees Celsius. Two other heatwaves followed in July and August. Drought conditions ensued, with water restrictions required in many parts of the province – in some areas for the first time.
With the hot, dry conditions came wildfires,
with more than 1,600 fires burning nearly 8,700 square kilometres of land. It was the third worst wildfire season on record in terms of area burned, but since many of the fires were in close proximity to populated areas, the destruction of property and displacement of people was worse than in previous years.
It wasn’t that long before B.C. went from not enough water to too much – way too much. So-called atmospheric rivers brought torrential rains to the central and south coasts in November, causing devastating mudslides and floods. In addition to the tragic loss of livestock and the destruction of homes and infrastructure, the flooding represented significant risks to wells and aquifers.
Flood waters can contain contamination from dead animals, manure pits, diesel and fuel storage, and building materials, including asbestos. Flooded wells are likely to have had flood waters introduced, especially if they have an improper surface seal. Even if a well hasn’t been flooded, there is still the potential for the well water to be contaminated as flood water can be introduced into groundwater through other pathways.
British Columbia’s Ministry of Health has been warning residents in flooded areas of possible water contamination and is instructing well owners to have their wells assessed.
The BC Groundwater Association is uniquely well positioned to help the province out as we recover from the flooding. As we look to 2022, the full extent of the damage caused by the flooding is still not known. The BCGWA will continue to provide leadership, and our members will provide services as we recover from this devastating event.
Dave Mercer, P. Geo, operates Underground Communications, offering specialized business development and marketing services in geologyrelated industries. Dave is also currently general manager of the BCGWA. He can be reached at Dave@undergroundcommunications.ca
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