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8 DESTROYING PFAS IN WATER
An exclusive interview with lead researcher Dr. Johan Foster of UBC.
12 AWARDED FOR INNOVATION
First-of-its-kind automated filtration system is designed to meet unique cultural and environmental need.
14 A GROWING CHALLENGE
How we’re contending with the growing issue of PFAS in Canadian groundwater.
23 THE SOURCE
News and views from the OGWA.
4 EDITORIAL
PFAS contamination remains a global concern by Mike Jiggens 6 INDUSTRY
38 GUEST COLUMN
B.C.’s need to work together by Living Lakes Canada staff
ON THE WEB:
GRCA concerned about well water impact from industrial water-taking permit application Gravel extraction company seeks permit for taking 15 million litres of water daily. Cambridge Today report.
Progogation of Parliament could put First Nations Clean Water Act in jeopardy: report
It’s unclear if act will be put back on table. Canada’s National Observer report.
The PFAS problem
How we’re dealing with these chemicals in water.
by Mike Jiggens
What’s in the water we drink? Should we be concerned about unintentional additives such as PFAS, otherwise known as “forever chemicals?” Or what about things that are intentionally added, such as fluoride?
PFAS and fluoride and their relationship with water have become two of the hottest topics of discussion within the water industry in recent months and years.
We’ll explore fluoride in greater detail in the next issue of Ground Water Canada. There is purportedly scientific evidence that suggests fluoride in drinking water can lead to lower IQ scores in children. Dental science has long defended fluoridated water for its role in helping to prevent tooth decay, and dentists continue to promote fluoride despite recent opposition to its alleged shortcomings. Some major Canadian municipalities are debating whether to continue adding fluoride to their municipal supplies as they try to sort through the facts.
The debate has gathered steam more recently with anti-fluoride advocate Robert Kennedy Jr. slamming its addition to water. Kennedy is the presumptive new U.S. health secretary in the coming Trump administration.
PFAS contamination remains a global concern because the chemicals are bio-accumulative and interact with the body’s natural processes
We’ll take a closer look at fluoride in our next issue.
For now, Ground Water Canada wishes to deal with the arguably more pressing concern about PFAS in our water and namely groundwater. These forever chemicals are seemingly unavoidable and are getting into our groundwater supply through various means. PFAS chemicals are elements in various household items including non-stick cookware and are prevalent in such compounds as firefighting foams. These chemicals work their way into groundwater and then are consumed by us, posing potentially serious health concerns.
The scientific community has been hard at work to devise ways to eliminate PFAS in water and negate these concerns. There is some good news on that front, and we’re sharing such information in this very issue.
PFAS contamination remains a global concern because the chemicals are bio-accumulative and interact with the body’s natural processes. The contamination is occurring at more than 1,200 known sites in the United States and at least 23,000 known sites in Europe.
The PFAS problem has prompted the United States to impose a four-parts-per-trillion limit on two PFAS (PFOS and PFOA) in drinking water. Canada, meanwhile, is regulating 25 individual PFAS in drinking water.
Some jurisdictions have already declared war on non-biodegradable, single-use plastics as a means of mitigating the PFAS problem. China is banning such plastics while California is mandating that all packaging must be either biodegradable or able to be recycled or composted.
Remediation efforts are underway at various locations where PFAS contamination has already occurred. The challenge now is to stop it in its tracks and prevent future contamination from happening at all. This means phasing out PFAS and developing new materials that have all the positive characteristics of PFAS but without the negative baggage.
In this issue, we take a good look at the PFAS problem with separate stories that address the issue from different perspectives. One takes us behind the scenes at the University of British Columbia where researchers are studying systems that trap and destroy these forever chemicals.
Another explores how PFAS has made its way into our water supply and looks at the challenges presented.
Yet another article takes a look at the growing global environmental awareness of PFAS and the need for increased sustainability trends amid a growing demand for plastics.
NEXT ISSUE: The next issue of Ground Water Canada will feature a closer look at the debate behind fluordating drinking water. @GroundWaterMag groundwatercanada company/groundwatercanada
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PFAS-CONTAMINATED GROUNDWATER
MAY BE IMPACTING MILLIONS IN THE UNITED STATES
By the U.S. Geological Survey
Approximately 71 to 95 million people in the Lower 48 states – more than 20 per cent of the country’s population – may rely on groundwater that contains detectable concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, for their drinking water supplies. These findings are according to a U.S. Geological Survey study published Oct. 24.
The predictive model results can help members of the public, water suppliers and regulators understand the potential for PFAS contamination, guide future studies and inform strategic planning for water resources.
USGS scientists are the first to report national estimates of PFAS occurrence in untreated groundwater that supplies water to public and private wells. This research also provides the first estimate of the number of people across the United States who are potentially affected by PFAScontaminated groundwater.
Along with a scientific report, the USGS published an interactive, online map so users can see probability estimates of PFAS occurrence. Note that predictive results are intended to be evaluated at state, regional and national scales rather than at individual household levels. Probability estimates are for the presence of PFAS in groundwater and do not account for any subsequent actions taken
by states, municipalities or individuals to treat drinking water. The model does not include estimates of PFAS concentrations; testing is the only way to confirm the presence of contaminants.
Exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health risks in people, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a wide variety of common applications, from the linings of fast-food boxes and non-stick cookware to firefighting foams and other purposes. PFAS are commonly called “forever chemicals” because many of them do not easily break down and can build up over time, making them a concern for drinking water quality.
“This study’s findings indicate widespread PFAS contamination in groundwater that is used for public and private drinking water supplies in the U.S.,” said Andrea Tokranov, USGS research hydrologist and lead author of this study. “This new predictive model can help prioritize areas for future sampling to help ensure people aren’t unknowingly drinking contaminated water. This is especially important for private well users, who may not have information on water quality in their region and may not have the same access to testing and treatment that public water suppliers do.”
The EPA has established legally
enforceable levels, called maximum contaminant levels, for six types of PFAS in drinking water. The EPA regulates public water supplies, and some states have additional regulations for drinking water. Some homes use private water supplies, where residents are responsible for the maintenance, testing and treatment of their drinking water. Those interested in treatment processes and testing options can read EPA’s guidance or contact their state officials or water supplier.
The states with the largest populations relying on public water supplies with potentially contaminated groundwater sources are Florida and California. Regarding private wells, Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio have the largest populations relying on potentially contaminated groundwater.
The study also presents data according to population percentage. In Massachusetts, for example, the source water for 86 to 98 per cent of people who rely on groundwater from public water supplies could be contaminated with PFAS. In Connecticut, the source water for 67 to 87 per cent of the people who rely on groundwater from private wells could be affected. Details by state can be seen in the report’s tables S6 through S8.
“To derive these estimates, the team analyzed 1,238 groundwater samples collected by USGS scientists and determined how factors such as urban development and well depth can impact PFAS occurrence,” continued Tokranov. “With that information, a detailed machine learning model was developed and used to identify which geographic areas have a higher likelihood for contamination. That information was combined with existing USGS research on the number of people in a given area who rely on groundwater for drinking water to establish population estimates.”
Scientists present separate estimates for public and private wells because they typically receive water from different groundwater depths. Public wells using groundwater as the primary water source are usually deeper than private wells.
There are more than 12,000 PFAS types.
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DESTROYING PFAS IN WATER
An exclusive interview with lead researcher Dr. Johan Foster of the University of British Columbia
As the name suggests, “forever chemicals” are manmade pollutants that do not break down over time. Properly known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), these substances are used in products such as waterproof clothing due to their resistance to heat, water and stains.
by JAMES CARELESS
Researchers,
Unfortunately, PFAS are accumulating in soil and water around the world. This is a serious problem since PFAS have been linked to cancer, liver damage and other health issues.
Now for some good news: Chemical engineers with the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Applied Science have developed a system that traps and destroys PFAS. In this process, the combination of an activated carbon filter
with a special, patented catalyst captures these substances, and then breaks them down into harmless components that are absorbed into the filter material.
Dr. Johan Foster, associate professor of chemical and biological engineering in UBC’s faculty of applied science, is the lead researcher on this project. In an exclusive interview, he told Ground Water Canada all about it.
New UBC catalyst removes “forever chemicals” from water supplies before they can cause lasting harm.
from left, are Dr. Raphaell Moreira, Pani Rostami and Dr. Johan Foster.
Dr. Foster, it is amazing that you and your team have found a way to destroy forever chemicals using a modified activated charcoal filter. What makes this filter so different, and so effective?
In the simplest, very high-level view, it is really just charcoal with rust on it. It’s obviously more technically complicated than that. We take biomass – in this case, wood chips, but we can certainly use other biomass – we put an iron salt on it, and then we burn it. And then what happens is the biomass turns into charcoal or activated charcoal in this case, and the iron turns into an iron oxide.
Now PFAS are in very low concentrations in most parts of the world. Obviously, if you’re near a place where they created it, or there’s been some sort of huge spillage, it might be in higher concentrations, but generally in very low concentrations.
Anyway, when you put water through this filtration catalyst, the PFAS attach
New UBC catalyst that destroys PFAS substances uses readily available biomass from forest or agricultural wastes.
to the catalyst, and it also gets destroyed. That’s because the PFAS attach to the catalyst with the filter, which breaks down the PFAS. What’s left are small molecules or even atoms of fluorine left in the water, which are innocuous.
RESEARCH
wonderful. There was this ad some years ago about waterproof pants that explained their usefulness. In the ad, they would spill coffee on the pants and the coffee would just run off thanks to their PFAS coating. They work very well for waterproofing.
On the downside, PFAS last forever. Their molecular bond is sort of unnatural in that it’s something we’ve created, and so nature doesn’t really have a way to break it down. So, the problem is then when watersoluble PFAS get into water, they can get into the body. Then these PFAS bioaccumulate, because again, we naturally don’t have a way to break this down.
Anyway, in talking with this scientist, he said that, “well, sometimes iron compounds can work.” I happened to have some
ongoing work with making biochar and rust for other applications. And so, we tested this out of PFAS and had some promising results, then modified it and did lots of subsequent research to make it better. And that was the genesis of this particular process.
Did you expect the theory behind this process to prove itself in practice?
I didn’t know if it would work. There certainly was a Eureka moment of like, “oh, this actually works to degrade PFAS!” That’s interesting. As with most science, it was a muted Eureka moment. It’s like, wow, “that’s really promising. Go try it again, and then go try it again after that and make sure it’s not just a fluke in the data.” So yes, it certainly was a Eureka moment. Personally, I was surprised it worked.
What steps have you been taking to bring the PFAS destruction process out of the lab and into the working world?
We started this project by using a blowtorch to burn the material to make the filters. Now, we do it with ovens and controlled atmospheres and heating rates because we can make it better.
Fortunately, this approach is very scalable. That’s why we now have a startup company to commercialize this, called ReAct Materials. We have scaled up the production of this catalyst to about four cubic metres. So yes, it’s very scalable. In the first versions we made, we were doing milligrams or maybe a gram of catalysts and trying to treat a hundred millilitres of water, and that worked. Now we’re trying to scale it up so we can really treat a household or a small business.
Researchers observe different dosages of a new catalyst which catches and destroys PFOA, a type of “forever chemical” that lingers in water sources.
The goal is to be able to get to a wide variety of applications and size of filtration units, so we can get to municipalities, for example. And that could be many tons of catalysts that can be truckload – quite literally train cars full of catalysts. So, we’re working up to that scale, and we know this is scalable at this point because we have scaled it up.
The good thing about this is that this is activated carbon, right? I mean, it is charcoal. When you look at it, it is like black powder.
Now, there are a lot of municipalities who already use activated charcoal filters for water treatment. So, this would be somewhat a drop in the bucket for some municipalities to deploy.
nature doesn’t deal with the problem. So, this is our generation’s leaded fuel, which plays well for a certain age of population. But what I mean by that is that look, it’s this kind of unseen threat: You can’t taste it, you can’t smell it, but it’s having health effects that will be wide ranging and not go away unless we do something about it.
Solving the PFAS problem is a long-
term thing that will require a lot of input from the government, from companies, and from the public to try to solve this on multiple different levels. That’s why we’re really excited about trying to make an impact here, because we have a very unique technology whereby we can absorb and destroy PFAS, and we think we can do it on a scalable level. So, yes, we’re really excited.
PUT YOUR TRUST IN TRUE, LOCAL EXPERTS
On a household scale, a lot of homes have multi-stage water filters, with one of those stages being a charcoal filter. So, swapping that out for PFAS-destroying charcoal would not be a big deal.
So, we would be looking at, again, in applications for some households, obviously we’re looking at making a unit that can treat gallons per minute, the level that you’d want to treat for a household,
In addition to your solution, do you foresee PFAS production being stopped in order to address the forever chemical problem?
Well, they’re still making and using these “forever chemicals,” and the last figure I heard was that there was $26 billion in annual profits earned by industries selling PFAS. So, this isn’t going away. Again, PFAS quite literally don’t degrade. So just putting them into
AWARDED FOR INNOVATION
First-of-its-kind
automated filtration system is designed to meet unique cultural and environmental needs of researcher’s hometown, with potential to be replicated in rural communities in Canada
Growing up in the forest of Kilgoris and the Kisii rural village in Kenya, where he witnessed many people becoming ill and some dying from drinking contaminated water, Dr. Paul Onkundi Nyangaresi dreamed of someday figuring out a way to bring clean water to his rural home village.
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
Dr. Paul Onkundi Nyangaresi of Vancouver is the winner of the Mitacs Innovation Award for his breakthrough technology in delivering clean drinking water to a Kenyan school.
Now, as an environmental engineering and electronic science technologist furthering his research in Canada, he has done just that by developing a low-cost, simple water disinfection system fueled by collected rainwater. The system now successfully stores up to 10,000 litres, delivering 500 litres of clean water per day for drinking and cooking to 365 students and teachers at the Rianyabayo Memorial Academy in nearby Kisii County, Kenya.
The first-of-its-kind system has earned
Nyangaresi the Mitacs Innovation Award –Inclusive Innovator of the Year, awarded by Mitacs, a Canadian innovation leader which connects businesses and researchers to drive competitiveness and productivity in sectors such as clean technology, life sciences, emergency management, advanced timber, and agritech. The award was presented at a ceremony at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa in November.
Nyangaresi, a post-doctoral researcher working under the supervision of Prof. Sara Beck in the civil engineering department at the University of British Columbia, is being recognized for working with the local Kenyan community to devise a water treatment solution that suits their culture and way of life, while applying his cutting-edge knowledge of emerging water treatment technologies such as ultraviolet light emitting diode (UV LED) disinfection. His work also has potential applications within Indigenous communities in Canada.
“I lived there for many years, so I was able to understand and work out the unique issues they face,” Nyangaresi said. “Sometimes projects with good intentions fail because the people implementing them don’t really know what the
community wants.”
Nyangaresi credits Mitacs’s support –in collaboration with enterprise partners Toronto-based Clear Inc. through its CEO Ron Blutrich, and London, Ont.-based MW Technologies through its president Dr. Ted Mao – for helping to make his lifelong dream come true. His next step is to replicate the system in other marginalized communities.
“When I came to Canada to work as a post-doctoral researcher in June 2021, people in my hometown expected me to focus on earning money for my own family, personal and selfish needs,” Nyangaresi said. “For me, the aim was always to find a way to help my community, and Mitacs helped me do that.”
He knew that any disinfection system he devised for the community’s school couldn’t rely on chlorine, which is widely used for water treatment globally but is costly, has bad smell and taste, and is more technically complex on smaller scales, particularly for rural community members.
Through his Mitacs project, Nyangaresi was able to install an ACUVA ArrowMax HOME UV LED disinfection system donated by Clear Inc., and then paired that technology with a Kenyan-designed filtration system that uses sand to remove disease-causing microorganisms.
HOW IT WORKS
Rainwater is collected in a 10,000litre water storage tank and then is automatically pumped into the filtration unit, while regulated by an automatic control water level float valve. A reservoir holds the filtered water before it flows by gravity to the UV LED reactor, where final disinfection takes place en route to seven taps used by the students and kitchen staff. The UV LED disinfection reactor is powered by a locally purchased photovoltaic system that also provides Rianyabayo Memorial Academy with a light source.
“As long as there’s rain – which is abundant in that region – they have clean water and they don’t need any complex equipment or around-the-clock monitoring,” Nyangaresi said, adding he estimates the cost of the system to be around $5,000. “All they do is turn on the tap.”
Nyangaresi’s achievement in bringing clean drinking water to the students and teachers is only possible through his continuous engagement with the community.
Understanding the need for culturally competent practices, he actively consulted with the community in research design, used and procured local materials to boost local economic development, and employed local talent to install the system, resulting in a solution that empowers community ownership and sustainability.
The Mitacs Innovation Award – Inclusive Innovator of the Year recognizes achievements that promote social inclusion, incorporate diverse perspectives, and prioritize accessibility. It is granted to a Mitacs program participant who is committed to developing and/ or fostering an inclusive innovation ecosystem. Mitacs’ programs are supported by funding from the Government of Canada and provincial and territorial governments across the country.
Nyangaresi is one of eight Mitacs Innovation Awards winners nationally, chosen from thousands of innovators who take part in Mitacs programs each year. Additional 2024 categories, updated with a fresh look to better reflect Canada’s innovation landscape, include: four winners for outstanding innovation, Canadian start-up innovator of the year, Canadian enterprise innovator of the
A GROWING CHALLENGE
How we’re contending with the growing issue of PFAS
in Canadian groundwater.
Canadian environmental regulators, as in many countries around the world, are contending with the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) having entered many of the country’s groundwater reserves.
PFAS can enter the environment from a wide variety of sources including but not limited to those located at industrial sites, airports, military bases, landfills, and wastewater treatment facilities.
One notable contributor to this problem has been the use of PFAS in aqueous film forming foams (AFFF), a critical firefighting tool that has been widely used in training exercises and emergency responses at airports and military bases for decades. Long seen as an indispensable tool for controlling fuelbased fires, AFFF use has, unfortunately, led to several PFAS releases that now need to be assessed, and potentially remediated.
Once in the environment, PFAS can migrate and cause impacts to groundwater, surface waters, sediments, and biota in nearby streams and ditches, which eventually flow into larger water bodies that could serve as drinking water sources or support commercial and recreational fisheries.
For environmental scientists, water supply managers and others whose responsibility it is to steer good environmental practices, understanding how PFAS behaves in the
environment and being able to identify and recommend effective remedial approaches and risk management strategies is going to become much more important as stricter government regulations surrounding the use and management of PFAS are promulgated.
Of course, coming up with strategies to remediate groundwater, soils, and sediments impacted with PFAS are challenging given the properties of PFAS themselves: They are extremely persistent compounds that are resistant to biodegradation, have a propensity for accumulation, and are often highly mobile.
A LONG-LASTING PROBLEM IN CANADA’S GROUNDWATER
Unlike other pollutants that break down over time, PFAS can remain intact for decades. Their resilience is especially problematic when it comes to groundwater reserves. PFAS properties can vary greatly between compounds, with some PFAS preferentially binding to soils and others readily dissolving in groundwater. These properties can allow for a vadose zone source mass that continuously feeds a groundwater plume
by MICHEL FRANCE & JENNIFER KIRK
for many decades. These groundwater plumes can in turn travel far and potentially impair drinking water sources and other sensitive receptors that are well away from their initial point of entry into the environment.
UNIQUE CHALLENGES IN ASSESSING PFAS IN GROUNDWATER
Assessing PFAS in groundwater is more complicated than it is for other pollutants
Michel France is senior environmental scientist and PFAS lead with Arcadis.
because PFAS are a class of thousands of substances with varying properties and behaviors, including those related to persistence, accumulation, and mobility.
Just how far and wide these chemicals can move through groundwater is related to factors such as the specific type and chemical composition of the PFAS (notably the size or chain length and ionic state of the compound), local geology, and groundwater flow dynamics. Because of these complexities, a full and accurate picture can be drawn by applying a variety of advanced analytical techniques that are most appropriate for the site-specific conditions at hand.
The analytical detection of PFAS concentrations in soil and groundwater presents another pivotal remediation challenge, as most current analytical methods only target a fragment of the thousands of known PFAS compounds in existence, leading to incomplete data about the full scope of any particular environmental accumulation.
Some newer analytical techniques – for example, the Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay or adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF) method – can provide good information helpful in developing a better understanding of the total PFAS mass present and can provide insights beyond those that can be gained through traditional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques which identify only a small fraction of the thousands of existing PFAS compounds
GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES FOR PFAS
In addressing the presence of PFAS in groundwater, one of the standard approaches involves using activated carbon or ion exchange resins to filter out the contaminants. While these techniques are commercially available and scalable, a tremendous amount of research and development (R&D) and investment has gone into finding viable alternatives.
At Arcadis, we see the most promising innovation occurring around fractionation technology and PFAS destruction methods. PFAS compounds are typically created under extreme
conditions – high temperatures and pressures – which makes breaking them down challenging. To tackle this, we’ve been actively involved in evaluating, developing and demonstrating a variety of remedial technologies.
For example, for large-scale PFAS sites like airports and military bases, in-situ soil stabilization has shown a lot of promise. This technique involves injecting or mixing stabilizing agents, such as activated carbon or specialized clays, directly into the ground to bind the PFAS molecules and prevent them from leaching into the groundwater.
Another promising technological process that offers a good bit of hope on this front is sonolysis, a method we’ve been collaborating on with the University of Surrey in the U.K. for more than five years, along with research from Clarkson University near the Canadian border in New York. Additionally, we’re working on supercritical water oxidation (SCWO), a technique that operates under extremely high pressure – around 2,000
bars – essentially functioning like a high-temperature pressure cooker. This allows for efficient breakdown of PFAS compounds without needing the most extreme temperatures that also drive energy use and cost. Both technologies show great potential, offering more robust solutions for PFAS remediation than traditional filtration methods.
Despite these important advances, there’s still no “one-size-fits-all” solution to PFAS remediation. In all cases, specific site conditions, such as geochemistry and hydrogeology, need to be assessed in the context of human or ecological exposure. Ultimately this analysis will drive a site-specific remedy, if a remedy is even required.
Michel France is senior environmental scientist and PFAS lead with Arcadis. Jennifer Kirk is national discipline lead of risk assessment with Arcadis Canada.
Arcadis Canada provides consulting, design, engineering and management services in water and other areas.
PFAS, PLASTICS & CLEAN WATER
Exploring sustainability trends in biodegradable plastic and clean water.
IDTechEx’s diverse portfolio of sustainability reports covers topics from PFAS to bioplastics, and explores regulations and emerging technologies that, combined, highlight a growing global environmental awareness and the need for increased sustainability trends.
THE PFAS PROBLEM
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
PFAS are a family of synthetic compounds, comprising thousands of chemicals. They can be distinguished by their fluorine content. Wellestablished application areas include pesticides, non-stick cookware, paints, and firefighting foams, with industrial applications including aviation, clean energy, and automotive.
PFAS chemicals can be found in drinking water, having traveled from industrial manufacturing sites and consumer products through many avenues to surface water sources and rain, eventually ending up in drinking water. PFAS contamination is a major concern because these types of chemicals are persistent and bio-accumulative; recent research shows that they can interact with the body’s natural processes. In Europe, there are at least 23,000 known sites where PFAS contamination occurs, and at least 1,245 known sites in the US, highlighting the global need for regulation.
RPFAS is an ongoing problem associated with drinking water.
REGULATIONS AND THE EU RESTRICTION PROPOSAL
IDTechEx’s report, PFAS Treatment 20252035: Technologies, Regulations, Players, Applications, explores possibilities for regulations on PFAS within different sectors, focused mostly on drinking water. The U.S. recently imposed a fourppt (parts per trillion) limit on two PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) in drinking water, while Canada regulates 25 individual PFAS in drinking water.
The EU’s universal PFAS restriction proposal would see all PFAS manufacturing and distribution banned in the EU. However, timelimited exemptions for specific application areas, like semi-conductor manufacturing, would prevent this regulation from impacting in the short term, with certain product types and manufacturing sectors not likely to see change for a few years, if at all. However, IDTechEx’s outlook for progress on this restriction proposal could potentially see an updated draft for the proposal being introduced in 2025. Developing such regulations highlights a sustainability-focused approach to the governance of many industries.
IDTechEx finds that while some PFAS alternatives are emerging, just needing to be mass-produced to feasibly act as replacements, other areas currently don’t have existing replacement options and therefore require more time before becoming strictly regulated. IDTechEx’s PFAS treatment report goes into detail about various national and regional approaches to PFAS regulations and their impact on high-tech industries.
BIOPLASTICS AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Bioplastics are plastics that are produced from bio-based feedstocks. The term is sometimes used to describe biodegradability; however, this is an independent property. While certain plastics primarily made from bio-based feedstocks, such as polylactic acid (PLA), are biodegradable, many key polymers that are widely used such as
polyolefins (PE, PP, etc.) are not. Bioplastics will be needed to sustainably supply the increasing demand for polymers without increasing the use of petroleum-based plastics. The carbon emissions of plastic production can be significantly reduced by using bio-based feedstocks due to carbon sequestration in the polymer during production. In addition, certain biodegradable bioplastics will have an increasing role in the circular economy. Under the correct conditions, polymers such as PLA or PHAs can be composted to tackle the growing challenge of plastic waste.
The plastics industry and end-users of plastic, such as manufacturers of packaging and consumer goods as well as the automotive industry, and others, will need to take action to adopt biobased plastics. IDTechEx describes four drivers for bio-plastic alternatives, including performance, application, sustainable motivation, and price, which
can each be evaluated to determine whether a common petrochemical polymer should be substituted. With the growing range of drop-in replacement polymers on the market, price, and supply chain security are increasingly the largest barriers to adoption.
To promote the uptake of bioplastics, many countries have put in place incentives and mandates to meet ambitious targets to reduce the environmental impact of plastic usage. For example, China has introduced bans on non-biodegradable, singleuse plastics. Additionally, California has required all packaging to be either recyclable or compostable. Bioplastics will play a role in meeting the continuing demand for these plastics while meeting these regulatory challenges.
IDTechEx provides independent research on emerging technologies and their markets.
WATER AS ENERGY SOURCE
University of Toronto researchers advancing hydrogen as a replacement for carbon fuels.
University of Toronto researchers are seeking to improve a device used for splitting the water molecule. While the notion of using hydrogen for energy has been around since Sir William Grove first invented the fuel cell in 1838, the idea started to get more traction after the first use of fuel cells in space for NASA’s 1965 Gemini V mission.
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
More recently, researchers like Tess Seip, a PhD candidate in the mechanical and industrial engineering department at the University of Toronto (UToronto), have been investigating hydrogen as a green energy source to mitigate carbon emissions.
Seip and a team led by Dr. Aimy Bazylak are working to improve the efficiency of a device that uses electricity – preferably from solar and wind sources – to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen gases, which can then be stored and
used for energy. The device is called a polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzer, or PEMWE for short.
The UToronto team was focused on a specific layer inside the PEMWE, called the porous transport layer (PTL), which controls the flow of water inside. Water passes through the PTL before it reaches a catalyst layer, which splits the water molecule.
However, the reaction – known as electrolysis – can cause excess gas to accumulate, which
Tess Seip, left, and her research team at the BMIT-ID beamline at the Canadian Light Source.
prevents water from reaching the catalyst. Seip and her colleagues were testing a new design they developed, which has extra channels in it, to improve water flow. Better water flow means less energy is needed to drive the process.
If it’s not hydrated, it slows the reaction rate and reduces the efficiency.
With the help of the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan, the team found that their simple modification did in fact improve the efficiency of a PEMWE.
Seip and her colleagues were particularly interested to see if there were
changes in membrane thickness and PTL hydration.
“If it’s not hydrated, it slows the reaction rate and reduces the efficiency,” Seip said.
The ultra-bright light produced by the CLS synchrotron was critical for their work: “The BMIT beamline at the CLS has a resolution of around 6.5 microns per pixel, so this lets us characterize these microscopic changes in the membrane,” Seip said. For reference, the typical human hair is 65 microns thick. “The most important factor is that we are able to do this while the cell is operating.”
While some electrolyzers are already in use at an industrial level, “they’re too expensive for transportation applications right now,” she says. Getting more water to flow freely and evenly across a PEMWE is important, to scale up the technology for use in larger cells, Seip said.
“If we gain a little bit of efficiency and multiply it at scale, that could have meaningful impacts down the line.”
That could mean more efficient, carbon-free cars and homes in the future.
Tess Seip.
VEGAS SHOW DRAWS +6,000
Attendance the fourth largest in history of Groundwater Week
December’s Groundwater Week 2024 saw the fourth largest attendance in the history of the National Ground Water Association (NGWA).
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
The Las Vegas event drew 6,101 groundwater professionals from 37 countries.
“We’re grateful for another great turnout by the industry,” NGWA CEO Terry S. Morse said. “From the show floor to the classroom to networking, I hope attendees got the most out of this special event to further their businesses and careers.”
NGWA’s theme was “Empowering Innovation.” The week attracted 301 exhibitors – the eighth most in the trade show’s history – displaying the latest advancements in the groundwater industry over 80,200 square feet of exhibit space which was its second largest. The exhibit hall featured 40 first-time exhibitors.
There were also more drilling rigs on display that are geared toward geothermal than in past years. Attendees attended multiple geothermal workshops as well, including “Optimizing Geothermal Drilling: Operations, Equipment, and Scalability Insights.”
A comprehensive lineup of more than 40 workshops addressed industry challenges and explored solutions for them. Workforce development – the industry’s top concern – was explored in a roundtable as was advancing women in the groundwater industry.
The NGWA delegates meeting saw new professionals get elected to the NGWA board of directors:
Groundwater professionals from 37 different countries attended Groundwater Week in Las Vegas in December.
RIGHT: More drilling rigs were on display in 2024 than in past shows, including those geared toward geothermal.
LEFT: More than 6,000 groundwater professionals from 37 countries attended Groundwater Week in December in Las Vegas.
• David Baker of Apex Drilling LLC in Burley, Idaho
• Dermot Dillon of Summit Drilling LLC in Bridgewater, N.J.
• Mike Ward of Clyde’s Well Service Inc. in Milton, Fla.
• David Lipson, Ph.D., PG, of HRS Water Consultants Inc. in Lakewood, Colo., was elected vice-chair on the scientists and engineers section board and will also serve as a director on the NGWA board of directors.
• J. Peyton LaBorde of Wholesale Pump & Supply Inc. in Shreveport, La., was elected as secretary of the suppliers section board and will also serve as a director on the NGWA board of directors.
• Eric Macias of LORENTZ U.S. Corp. in Slaton, Texas, became NGWA’s 74th president. Macias made history as he is the first person from the manufacturers section to serve as NGWA’s president.
• For the first time, NGWA also elected a woman as presidentelect – Seth Kellogg, PG, of Geosyntec Consultants Inc. in Pennington, N.J.
Macias outline his 2025 goals:
• To complete NGWA Business PRO, an innovative app designed to provide water well contractors with an all-in-one business management tool
• To improve and build out NGWA University
• To explore and implement a strategy which allows the groundwater industry to be recognized as a meaningful place to work and attract new talent.
Keynote speaker and author Jim Davidson, a former hydrogeologist and NGWA member, discussed his 39 years of adventure and survival that he related to running a business. Davidson survived earthquakes during an attempt to ascend Mount Everest and later returned to summit it successfully. Davidson signed copies of his most recent book, The Next
Everest: Surviving the Mountain’s Deadliest Day and Finding the Resilience to Climb Again.
Groundwater Week will move to New Orleans, La. for its Dec. 9-11 event which will be co-located with the Irrigation Association.
Empowering Your Business’s Financial Future
Introducing
IAN GAWEL
Mutual Fund Representative*
647-285-1390
ian.gawel@dfsin.ca
VINCE VIVONA
Life and Health
Insurance Advisor
Group Insurance Advisor
416-571-6568
vince.vivona@dfsin.ca
as your new member benefit partners, approved by Ontario Groundwater Association, for the following financial services:
• Group Benefits Plans
• Group Pension Plans
• Business Owner Financial Services
• Individual Employee Financial Services
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING WITH YOU AND DISCUSSING EACH OF YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS.
Craig Stainton, former OGWA president, executive director
by GROUND WATER CANADA STAFF
K.C. “Craig” Stainton, former president of the Ontario Ground Water Association and later the association’s executive director, passed away Oct. 11 at the age of 69.
He leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the groundwater industry and the community he served.
“As president of OGWA, Craig played a crucial role in advancing the association’s mission and advocating for policies that promoted the responsible use of groundwater,” the OGWA reported to its members. “In his later role as executive director, Craig continued to work tirelessly to ensure that the industry remained at the forefront of innovation and education. He was respected by his colleagues for his wealth of knowledge and genuine care for the
well-being of the groundwater industry.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Craig will be remembered for his warmth and the personal connections he formed with so many.”
Craig’s brother Brent Stainton carries on the family business, Stainton Ltd. Pumps and Well Drilling – a family-owned and operated business since 1964. The Staintons were members of the OGWA for more than four decades.
“His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the contributions he made to the groundwater industry and his community.”
Craig Stainton is survived by his spouse Phil Graves and family members. He will be missed by family, friends, colleagues, and all those who knew him.
CANADA’S ACUVA TECHNOLOGIES ACQUIRED BY SWEDISH-BASED WATER DISINFECTION COMPANY
Watersprint AB, a leading provider of UVC LED water disinfection technology, has acquired the assets of Acuva Technologies, including intellectual property, following the recent bankruptcy of Acuva. Acuva Technologies, a Canadian company known for the patented IntenseBeam Technology, is recognized globally for its advanced, energy-efficient UVC LED water purification systems.
This acquisition will allow Watersprint to continue producing innovative water treatment products that Acuva’s customers have come to rely on.
“This acquisition strengthens Watersprint’s position in the global water treatment market,” André Carlsson, CEO of Watersprint, said. “By incorporating Acuva’s technology into our portfolio, we are better equipped to meet the diverse needs of our customers in the global residential point of use and point of entry markets as well as many OEM applications such as bottle filling, water dispenser, and recreational vehicle (RV) markets.”
Watersprint said it has committed to a seamless transition. The goal is to continue the production and supply of the products needed.
“I am thrilled to join the Watersprint team and continue advancing the innovative solutions that Acuva has been known for,” Babak Adeli, former vice-president of research and development at Acuva, said. “Seeing Acuva’s achievements live on within Watersprint is incredibly gratifying.”
Sweden-based Watersprint will leverage this acquisition to further expand across Europe and North America.
“We are excited to continue the legacy of Acuva’s innovations and integrate their offerings into our broader portfolio,” Tove Janzon, chair of the board, said. “This acquisition not only broadens Watersprint’s product portfolio but also brings in advanced and complementary technology along with a new customer base. Moreover, we are thrilled to have experienced staff from Acuva join our qualified team at Watersprint.”
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Well, another year has passed, and as I write this at the start of a new year, I welcome you to 2025! Looking back, 2024 has been another busy year. It seems the more years that pass, the quicker time passes as well. Personally, this past year has been good with the addition of a new shop, making things even busier moving into the new facility. Looking forward to 2025 and beyond there is much to do on many fronts, and at times the work needed to achieve the required result is or can be a bit overwhelming. It seems there are a good number of concerns our industry needs to be mindful of in the coming years, and I will use this forum to address my key concerns.
DWAYNE GRAFF President
Firstly, with the population increase and shortage of housing, we can all see there either is or will be a surplus of work in various forms for some time. Unfortunately, many of us are failing to maintain, and worse secure new talent for the industry, at the same time many are approaching or have reached retirement. For our industry to remain viable we need to deeply focus on the next generation and getting them involved. I think if we are perfectly honest it is a difficult trade to attract younger staff, too, as the skillset required is nearly nonexistent, the work can be difficult and the learning curve for the trade to gain the required experience is long, and compensation traditionally low.
It seems the best way to attract new talent is to provide better equipment for ease of use, increase pay for staff
(significantly) and provide more and better-quality training. This is compounded by the increasing need for enhanced health and safety requirements as well as project management. The problem here is that our pricing will need to substantially increase to support these needs. I know that some will continue their current path because they’re close to exiting the business for retirement. For those who plan to remain viable, I would encourage thoughts on how to achieve/ mitigate some of what I have highlighted above. If as an industry we remain on our current path we will be destined for failure; conversely there is a remarkable future there if we smartly decide to make appropriate changes now!
Secondly, at the OGWA we have had a few years of turmoil and change, seeing substantial changes in office staff. While the changes were necessary, they did distract from some of the objectives we wanted to initiate. I am pleased to say now that the current office staff are fantastic, and we are looking to get back on track with those initiatives this year.
Subsequently, one of the things that has been on my mind for some time is the increasing pressure the OGWA is seeing on its revenue generation. Historically, we have relied on delivering quality continuing education programs to industry and this in turn formed a key component of our revenue generation. We have seen increasing competition in this area, as some
manufacturers and suppliers are offering training without cost to attendees. Retrospectively, it appears the online providers deliver a substandard product that seemingly does not meet the minimum requirements for content. Additionally, there are some additional private course providers. As such OGWA has seen numbers shrink due to these competing efforts with lower turnout for the in-person courses we are providing. In addition to this, we routinely see only the owners attending the in-person sessions while their staff are often directed to online courses, which can be completed often in significantly less than seven hours.
Lastly, I wanted to take some time to address another issue we are facing with increased pressure. It seems several regulatory agencies are or have been placing pressure on some members for “claimed” violations of building codes/licensing/ permitting issues. On that front we collectively need to open dialogue with ESA, building inspectors and our own regulating authority, the MOECP.
INSIDE THE ISSUE
WATER FIRST WEBINAR Water safety and access challenges
HEALTH & SAFETY REPORT
Updates for OGWA members
INFRASTRUCTURE BOOM
Challlenges and the race for talent
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Saluting our golf tournament sponsors
PUBLISHED FOR THE ONTARIO GROUND WATER ASSOCIATION
Ph: 519-245-7194
TRISH LUTY, General Manager Ext. 1 / trish@ogwa.ca
BOYD PENDLETON Lotowater Technical Services Inc. 519-442-2086
RICK PETTIT Rideau Supply 800-463-7648
KYLE SMITH
Aardvark Drilling Inc. 613-296-8779
MIKE STEFFEN Steffen Well Drilling 519-357-1960 / 519-531-0355
JASON TESSIER
Mel’s Well Drilling 807-486-1333
BRYAN WATSON
G. Hart & Sons Well Drilling Ltd. 705-887-3331
MATTHEW D. WILSON
J.B. Wilson & Son Well Drilling ltd. 519-269-3364
WATER SAFETY AND ACCESS CHALLENGES ADDRESSED IN WATER FIRST WEBINAR
The Voices Behind Safe, Clean Water webinar, hosted by Water First, showcased the organization’s efforts to tackle water safety and access challenges in First Nations communities across Canada. The event highlighted the importance of education, training, and empowering Indigenous youth in water management. Water First featured several powerful keynote speakers: SJ Kendall of Alderville First Nation; Janelle Snache, a recent graduate of Water First’s Drinking Water Program; Samantha Keysis from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation; and Allan Moffatt, CEO of Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council.
The event covered several powerful initiatives: The School Water Program, which teaches students from kindergarten to Grade 12 about water science, and community-based initiatives like the Drinking Water Program to train local water operators. These programs aim to build capacity, address water challenges, and create employment opportunities in Indigenous communities. Speakers also discussed the great successes coming out of partnerships with individual Councils, like the
North Shore Tribal Council, which has had tremendous positive impact on youth who have access to hands-on water conservation experience and access to environmental projects.
Community-driven initiatives and direct partnerships empower youth and allow for invaluable education and experience to grow. Support for these communities, and for the incredible work done by Water First, is vital for empowering the next generation of water workers and environmental advocates.
OGWA values the critical work being done by Water First to address water safety and access in First Nations communities. We support their mission to empower Indigenous youth through education and water management training. OGWA looks forward to hopefully collaborating with Water First in the future, combining our expertise to enhance water conservation efforts, build capacity, and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of water professionals. We are committed to addressing water challenges and empowering communities across Ontario and beyond.
HEALTH & SAFETY REPORT
Hello OGWA members!
Wow! Where on earth did this year go to? I am hoping that all is well with you.
So, here I go with some updates for you!
I know…how exciting!
First up, we now have the Working for Workers Six Act. Much of the Working for Workers Five Act has now passed (see the last article on that one!).
Six proposes:
Long term illness Leave
Adoption and surrogacy Leave
Fitted PPE requirements
Mandatory minimum fine for multiple serious offences
MLITSD ordered Worker Trades Committees
Road work safety
Offences for misrepresentations of immigration applicants
• Skilled Trades Week Act
You might have heard that the WSIB is going to send you some money and you don’t have to do anything to get it!
In February 2025, the WSIB will be distributing $2 BILLION (not million) to employers meeting criteria. That’s a ton of money! Keep yer peepers open for
that money to show up on your WSIB Statement. If you need a cheque, they will be issuing instructions on receiving that way next year…other than that, it’ll be posted to your account.
And finally……………Feeling that you would like to work on your safety in 2025?
Let me know as the WSIB is providing $1,000 to companies who wish to sign up to their WSIB Excellence program and a minimum of $2,000 per completed topic, up to your annual premiums.
So, let’s say you pay the WSIB $3,000 a year in premiums, if you work on your safety, you could earn up to $6,000 back, plus the $1,000 for signing up. If you are interested, please let me know as I am a provider for this program!
And this money is over and above any monies that you will receive in February 2025!
If you have any questions on any of this, please just give me a call at 905-741-5001 or email me at info@safetyworksconsulting.com
ELLALINE (ELLA) DAVIES President, Safety Works Consulting Inc.
Groundwater’s Role in Canada’s Infrastructure Boom: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Race for Talent
By Shawn Hopper, OGWA Board Member
Transit, transportation and energy infrastructure budgets outstrip building construction four to one, so say the experts – with 42 of the top 100 projects in Canada being in Ontario!
Interestingly, the groundwater industry has a large part to play in that overall picture, but will we be able to take, or keep taking advantage of it?
Over the last few years, many groundwater contractors have been running at an above average pace, always trying to catch up on the workload. This isn’t a new trend compared to previous decades when similar infrastructure pushes have taken place. What is of interest from our industry’s perspective is whether the forward movement of this trend is going to strengthen or weaken. Initially, we tend to think that a rise of interest rates will slow growth, yet economists are highlighting that required housing, energy and other factors are continuing to move things along, even with recent inflation at higher-than-anticipated levels. The primary focus for our industry, no matter what happens, is going to be sustainability, even if we see a slight softening of interest rates, which is now the case.
One of the major challenges facing most of the industry is the drought of skilled workers willing to enter the industry. This is by no means a new problem; it has existed for the better part of three decades but only now as the workload increases and current work force ages has it become extremely evident. One of the largest hurdles, especially for smaller companies, is recognizing where they are at with upcoming talent acquisition opportunities and whether their business model can adequately compensate that talent (if it can even be found!).
Never in our lifetime has there ever been a job-swapping mentality like there has been over the last few years. Maybe aspects of this can be chalked up to COVID, but regardless, it has happened, and many industries are struggling to cope. At the heart of the problem is often remuneration for labour, along with perks and benefits. Our industry has not historically been any sort of trendsetter in any of those areas, which is possibly why the labour force doesn’t tend to look our way. The big question that immediately comes to mind is how are we able to make any progress on that front?
The problem is that we are a tremendously important and unique group that has tended to sell itself short by not adequately managing the bottom line and making it next to impossible to be relevant as an employer! Because of the relatively small size of most companies in our industry there isn’t always a straightforward way to measure where we are at when it comes to our revenues. It would seem that this has probably been a driving, or in this case braking, force in the level of interest from up-and-coming workers or entrepreneurs. As noted at the outset most of the largest infrastructure projects utilize some aspect of our industry, it would seem prudent on everyone’s part to sit down and really crunch the numbers so to speak.
There isn’t anyone who will do this for us with accuracy, since no one really understands the industry like we do. In short if we want to remain relevant and sustainable, we need to lure the people that have the talent we need (or at least have a reasonable desire to learn it), and the only way we will be successful in doing that is by providing not just acceptable, but truly stellar remuneration. In the end, talent will only be attracted by wages and that will take the whole industry to accomplish as we navigate the middle of this decade!
CFIB BENEFITS TO OGWA MEMBERS
Continuing our excellent partnership with CFIB, we’re spotlighting their newest benefits available to OGWA members – HR Now’s extensive legal support, here to help your business. Information, advice, and legal representation are at your fingertips with CFIB Business Advisors, who have access to invaluable tools to provide legal information to members on a variety of topics, including:
• Employment and Human Rights
Health & Safety
Workers’ Compensation
Corporate Law
Commercial Landlord/Tenant
Immigration
Regulatory Requirements
Taxation Regulations
For legal advice, CFIB’s Business Advisors can put you in contact with LawVo’s Telephone Legal Advice, and a lawyer will contact you to provide no-obligation, independent legal advice*. 75% of issues are resolved in just one phone call! LawVo also offers members a 25% discount on legal fees if your circumstances are complex and require legal representation. LawVo, included with your membership, can help you save up to $4,800 per year!
The OGWA is proud to offer this invaluable service through our partnership with CFIB, along with all of their other amazing benefits. Sign up with CFIB today and make sure to take advantage of all of the incredible benefits and discounts available to you, saving you time and money. Contact CFIB’s Business Advisors at 1-833-568-2342 or e-mail HRNOW@ CFIB.ca.
*Limit of 6 pages. If a document is longer than 6 pages, its review will fall under “representation” and involve a cost.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
The Ontario Ground Water Association extends heartfelt gratitude to our Bronze and Gold Sponsors for their incredible support of our 2024 Charity Golf Tournament held on September 6th. Your generous contributions reflect a steadfast commitment to the groundwater industry and an investment in its future. By supporting this event, you have helped nurture the next generation of professionals and students who will sustain this vital resource.
Thank you for making a difference and championing the importance of groundwater!
AME Drill (Bronze Sponsor)
AME Drill is a Canadian company with over 30 years of experience in the drilling industry. From humble beginnings in a small workshop, it has grown into a modern facility equipped with advanced CNC machinery and heat treatment systems. Specializing in the production of Down-the-Hole (DTH) drilling tools, AME Drill is committed to delivering high-performance products, including hammers, bits, and drill pipes. More importantly, the company prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering fast delivery, quality support, and a customer-focused approach. With offices in Moncton and Burlington, AME Drill has expanded its reach across Canada, enhancing service and availability nationwide to best serve you.
Baroid (Bronze Sponsor)
Baroid Industrial Drilling Products (IDP), a product service line of Halliburton, is a global supplier of drilling fluid additives and services. With a dedicated network of sales, service representatives, and laboratory scientists, Baroid IDP serves diverse industries, including water well drilling, mineral exploration, geothermal applications, environmental monitoring, and construction. The company offers a broad range of products for drilling, grouting, plugging, and well rehabilitation, engineered for performance and cost-effectiveness. Baroid IDP’s expert field representatives provide tailored solutions, addressing the unique challenges posed by various geological conditions. With over 20 years of industry experience, Baroid IDP remains committed to customer satisfaction and safety.
Grundfos (Bronze Sponsor)
In 1945, Poul Due Jensen of Bjerringbro, Denmark faced a conundrum – a client required electric pumps for irrigation, but none of sufficient quality were on the market. In the basement of his home, he set about making them himself…and from there, the Grundfos we know today began to grow. The largest pump manufacturer in the world, Grundfos offers a full range of products, pumps solutions, and services for all applications. Dedicated to quality, sustainability, and customer service, Grundfos remains a trusted global leader in pump solutions, continuing its commitment to providing reliable, high-quality products that meet the needs of customers worldwide.
Rideau Supply (Gold Sponsor)
Rideau Supply’s journey began with a simple, yet powerful vision, shared by a few passionate individuals who were determined to serve their customers’ needs. In 1975, Ron Fournier and Pat Kehoe founded the company with a focus on serving drillers, and in 1990, Earl Nafziger expanded the service to plumbers and pump installers. This dedication to supporting the success of their customers is what fueled their efforts and remains at the heart of Rideau Supply today. What started as a small team with big ambitions has now grown into a thriving company of over 100 dedicated employees, all committed to providing expert knowledge, high-quality products, and exceptional service.
At Rideau, building strong, lasting relationships is fundamental to their philosophy. The company’s name is symbolic – “H2O” represents water, the core of their business, while “H2H,” or “Human to Human,” reflects their customer-first approach. Rideau believes that a company’s greatest strength lies in its people, which is why they focus on creating personal connections with each customer. Their success, they believe, is rooted in trust, open communication, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of each client.
Expertise and Quality at the Forefront
A strong commitment to quality and expertise drives every aspect of Rideau Supply. Whether they are serving drillers, plumbers, or pump installers, Rideau brings decades of industry experience to deliver tailored solutions. The team’s deep product knowledge and technical expertise help customers choose the right products and services, ensuring they achieve optimal results. Rideau ensures they remain equipped to meet the evolving demands of the water industry.
Rideau Supply goes beyond simply supplying products. They offer invaluable industry advice, personalized service, and high-quality products to help customers achieve success. Understanding that each customer’s needs are unique, Rideau avoids a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether customers are involved in water well drilling, plumbing, pump installation, or any other related field, Rideau provides the right solutions that best align with their specific needs.
A True Partner in Success
Customer success is at the core of Rideau’s mission. The company measures its success by the long-term prosperity of its customers. Over the years, Rideau’s relationships with clients have evolved into lasting partnerships. The team works alongside customers to help them overcome challenges and provides the necessary resources and products to ensure their continued growth and success.
At Rideau Supply, they see themselves as more than just a supplier – they are a true partner in their customers’ success. They adopt a collaborative approach, working as one unified team to achieve the best possible outcomes. Each team member takes personal accountability for delivering results and consistently exceeding customer expectations.
Wishing you a
joyous
Dear Members of the Ontario Ground Water Association,
We hope that you had a wonderful Christmas surrounded by loved ones and filled with moments of joy and peace. As we reflect on the past year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks for your dedication and hard work. It has been a safe and successful year for our industry, and it is thanks to your commitment to servicing the groundwater industry and protecting our
holiday season and a prosperous new year
most valuable resource – water.
Looking ahead, we are excited for the new year and the opportunities it brings.
The Ontario Ground Water Association is eager to roll out new initiatives designed to foster greater engagement and support the continued growth and success of our industry. We look forward to working together with you to achieve even greater milestones in 2024.
The staff of the Ontario Ground Water
Association are also excited to reconnect with our members at the upcoming 73rd Convention and many other events throughout 2025. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to strengthen our community.
Wishing you all a safe, healthy, and prosperous new year!
Warm regards,
Ontario Ground Water Association
WE WANT YOU...
to sit on the Board of Directors regarding the Ontario Ground Water Association.
There are openings on the Board of Directors & all Directors are elected annually at the AGM.
To run for the on the Board of Directors, there are some background requirements:
The registered company must be in good standing with the OGWA
The person running for the Board of Directors must be the designated person for that company
The person running for the Board of Directors must be aware of time commitments and meeting attendance required
The person running for the Board of Directors must have permission of their company/owner with regards to time commitment to the OGWA Attendance of the AGM and AGM divisional meeting is recommended (for nomination and voting process)
It should be noted that if an OGWA member is not elected as Director or has time constraints, there are numerous OGWA committees that members can participate within such as Golf, Education, Convention and etc.
An OGWA member does not need to be the designated person of their company to sit on an OGWA committee. (The company is still required to be in good standing.)
If this sounds like you . . . please to contact the OGWA offi ce at admin@ogwa.ca or 519-245-7194 X1 for Trish Luty, General Manager
EXCITING NEWS: OGWA LAUNCHES COMPREHENSIVE GROUP BENEFITS PLAN FOR MEMBERS!
After a year of getting to know the needs and concerns of many of you, we are thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting new initiative for Ontario Ground Water Association (OGWA) members: a comprehensive Group Benefits Plan designed specifically for our hardworking community. This tailored plan includes health, dental, and prescription drug coverage, giving you and your employees the peace of mind you deserve while you focus on protecting Ontario’s vital groundwater resources.
For years, OGWA members have been the backbone of an essential industry, providing critical services that safeguard water quality and availability. Your work is challenging, physically demanding, and often unpredictable. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create a benefits package that meets your unique needs, helping you protect yourself, your dependents, your business, and your employees.
What’s Included in the Plan?
Our Group Benefits Plan is packed with features to ensure that you and your team are covered where it matters most. Here are some of the high-level highlights:
1. Health Coverage
• Hospital rooms, medical equipment and diagnostic tests
• Coverage for paramedical services ex. massage, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care
• Eye exams, Optional Vision and glasses/contacts
• Travel insurance
2. Dental Coverage
• Preventive care: cleanings, check-ups, and X-rays
Life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
coverage
Disability insurance to provide income support during recovery
Optional add-ons for critical illness
Flexible Plans for Every Need
We understand that every business is different, so we are providing two plans to choose from:
80% Plans:
Cost sensitive: a portion of eligible claims are covered up to 80% of plan maximums
Affordable monthly premiums starting at $100 per month
100% Plans:
Eligible claims are 100% covered up to plan maximums
Competitive rates beginning at $118 per month
Our pricing is structured to provide maximum value while ensuring sustainability for businesses of all sizes. By leveraging the collective strength of the OGWA community, we’ve secured highly competitive rates that rival other industry offerings.
Why This Matters
Health and financial security are cornerstones of a strong workforce. With this new Group Benefits Plan, OGWA members can attract and retain top talent, reduce downtime caused by health issues, and foster a sense of loyalty and well-being among employees. Beyond the workplace, it’s about giving you and your team the confidence to tackle challenges head-on, knowing that health-related concerns are under control.
Get Started Today
Enrollment is now open, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact Vince Vivona or Vince Camarda at 416-419-4363 or vince.vivona@dfsin.ca to learn more and sign up for a plan that’s right for you.
Don’t wait to secure your future and protect what matters most. Join your fellow OGWA members in embracing this milestone for our community. Together, let’s build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient workforce!
VINCE VIVONA
Life and Health Insurance Advisor/ Group Benefits Specialist vince.vivona@dfsin.ca / 416-571-6568
Water Well Driller
Water Well Driller
Aardvark Drilling Inc. provides high quality drilling services throughout Ontario, Eastern Canada, Bermuda, and anywhere we are needed.
Aardvark Drilling Inc. provides high quality drilling services throughout Ontario, Eastern Canada, Bermuda, and anywhere we are needed.
Water Well Driller
Since 2002 we have been bringing our extensive expertise and a high level of service to drilling projects in several areas.
Since 2002 we have been bringing our extensive expertise and a high level of service to drilling projects in several areas.
Aardvark Drilling Inc. provides high quality drilling services throughout Ontario, Eastern Canada, Bermuda, and anywhere we are needed.
Aardvark Drilling Inc. is seeking an experienced Water Well Driller in our Water Well Drilling division. Be a part of a growing, thriving business with opportunity for advancement.
Since 2002 we have been bringing our extensive expertise and a high level of service to drilling projects in several areas.
Aardvark Drilling Inc. is seeking an experienced Water Well Driller in our Water Well Drilling division. Be a part of a growing, thriving business with opportunity for advancement.
Our Water Well division shop is in Amaranth, Ontario (near Orangeville).
Our Water Well division shop is in Amaranth, Ontario (near Orangeville).
What you are applying to do:
Aardvark Drilling Inc. is seeking an experienced Water Well Driller in our Water Well Drilling division. Be a part of a growing, thriving business with opportunity for advancement.
What you are applying to do:
Our Water Well division shop is in Amaranth, Ontario (near Orangeville).
• Drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells, and performing all related activities in our Water Wells Division
• Drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells, and performing all related activities in our Water Wells Division
What you are applying to do:
• Maintaining shop and machinery
• Maintaining shop and machinery
• Supervising Driller Helpers
• Supervising Driller Helpers
• Drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells, and performing all related activities in our Water Wells Division
• Maintaining shop and machinery
• Reviewing client requirements and proposed locations for drilling
• Reviewing client requirements and proposed locations for drilling
Supervising Driller Helpers
• Completing project specific documentation such as Well Records
• Completing project specific documentation such as Well Records
• Reviewing client requirements and proposed locations for drilling
• Performing other labouring tasks as required
• Performing other labouring tasks as required
• Completing project specific documentation such as Well Records
• Exhibiting safe work practices and procedures through vehicle and site inspections
• Exhibiting safe work practices and procedures through vehicle and site inspections
• Performing other labouring tasks as required
• Occasional out-of-town work as required (but never share a hotel room!)
• Occasional out-of-town work as required (but never share a hotel room!)
• Exhibiting safe work practices and procedures through vehicle and site inspections
• Additional duties as required
• Additional duties as required
Occasional out-of-town work as required (but never share a hotel room!)
• Additional duties as required
We are looking for someone who has:
We are looking for someone who has:
• Experience drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells
We are looking for someone who has:
• Experience drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells
• Ability to operate a DR12 and/or DR24 an asset
Experience drilling and installing domestic and/or municipal wells
• Ability to operate a DR12 and/or DR24 an asset
• Ability to operate a DR12 and/or DR24 an asset
• Licensed well technician an asset
• Licensed well technician an asset
• DZ license and clean driver’s abstract
• Licensed well technician an asset
• DZ license and clean driver’s abstract
DZ license and clean driver’s abstract
• Capability of sizing overburden well-screens/willingness to learn
• Capability of sizing overburden well-screens/willingness to learn
• Mechanically inclined
• Capability of sizing overburden well-screens/willingness to learn
• Mechanically inclined
• Mechanically inclined
• Other relevant experience in construction, trades, equipment operations, welding, considered an asset
Other relevant experience in construction, trades, equipment operations, welding, considered an asset
• Other relevant experience in construction, trades, equipment operations, welding, considered an asset
• Solid understanding of the Ministry of the Environment regulations including O. Reg 903
• Solid understanding of the Ministry of the Environment regulations including O. Reg 903
• Solid understanding of the Ministry of the Environment regulations including O. Reg 903
What’s in it for you:
What’s in it for you:
What’s in it for you:
40–70-hour work weeks
• 40–70-hour work weeks
• Competitive wage ($30-40/hour)
• 40–70-hour work weeks
• Annual PPE / Fitness Fund
• Competitive wage ($30-40/hour)
• Competitive wage ($30-40/hour)
• Annual PPE / Fitness Fund
• Group health benefits and RRSP
• Annual PPE / Fitness Fund
• Group health benefits and RRSP
• Group health benefits and RRSP
Please email resume to Greg Zehr at hr@aardvarkdrillinginc.com
Please email resume to Greg Zehr at hr@aardvarkdrillinginc.com
Please email resume to Greg Zehr at hr@aardvarkdrillinginc.com
CME Bearing Head Continuous Sample Tube System
Over 40 years of field proven performance
The CME Bearing Head Sampler is a great tool for any application that requires a highly representative continuous sample. It can provide continuous cores between SPT test intervals. It is ideal for environmental sites, including PFAS investigations. It can provide high quality cores in clay mining exploration and has even been a useful tool in paleontology studies.
• Designed for use with any auger drilling machine
• Works with your existing hollow stem augers
• Collects samples as you advance the boring
• Bearing head isolates the sample tube from rotating auger
• “Dry Core” system - no drilling fluid or air required
• Bearing head is sealed for use below water table
• Adjustment rod allows positioning of the sample tube for best results
• Clear plastic liners with caps are available
Give us a call for more information on how the CME Bearing Head Continuous Sample Tube System can improve your sampling efficiency and even lead to more business.
Sampler retracted for more dense material
Sampler extended for soft material
Clear plastic liners to contain the sample
Adjust up to 6” for best results
2025 BUYERS GUIDE
AME DRILL SUPPLY & SERVICES INC.
1156 King Road, Unit 34
Burlington ON L7T 3L7
Tel: 506-229-8899
Email: amedrillservice@gmail.com
www.amedrillsupply.ca
Ame Drill Supply & Services Inc. has been supplying drilling tools for water well industries in Canada and USA since 2014. With warehouse in NS, NB and Ontario, Ame Drill is target to help water well drillers to improve their work efficiency and help them to save drilling cost. We are supplying DTH hammers (with foot valve or valvelsss) from 2.5” to 12”, DTH bits, drill pipes, eccentric drilling systems and symmetric drilling systems.
CENTRAL
MINE EQUIPMENT CO.
4215 Rider Trail N.
Earth City MO 63045
Tel: 314-291-7700
Toll Free: 800-325-8827
Fax: 314-291-4880
Email: info@cmeco.com
www.cmeco.com
Central Mine Equipment Company designs and manufactures a complete line of drilling equipment including drill rigs, augers, sampling systems and all-terrain and rough-terrain carriers.
CME is also a leading provider of drilling tools, equipment, and supplies.
DAB Pumps Canada Inc is the Canadian branch of Dab Pumps S.p.A (Italy), manufacturer of DAB Water Technology pump and water systems products.
DAB’s water movement products include our E.SYLINE family of constant pressure booster pump products (including the E.SYBOX Mini 3, Standard, MAX and Diver), a full line of a three and four inch submersible well pumps, shallow well jet pumps, and a full line of submersible sump, sewage, effluent, and general purpose pumps. DAB Pumps S.p.A is also the manufacturer of TESLA branded submersible motors in a range from 3” through 14” in various voltage / phase configurations. DAB Pumps Canada Inc employs a network of Canada-based sales, logistics, technical and administrative staff. DAB Water Technology products are distributed in Canada through our DCDP (DAB Canada Distribution Partner) network.
ERE INC
8605 Champ D’eau
Montreal QC H1P 3B8
Tel: 514-326-8852
Toll Free: 888-287-3732
Email: sales@ereinc.com www.ereinc.com
Empowering a Sustainable World with Innovative Solutions
For more than three decades, ERE has been at the forefront of the industry, earning admiration for its outstanding performance and imaginative creations. Our mission is clear: to fuel the global economy and improve lives through innovative solutions that solve critical environmental challenges. As a Global Solution Company, we take pride in deploying thousands of cutting-edge systems worldwide, effectively treating contaminated water, air, and soil. Comprehensive Environmental Solutions With a comprehensive suite of products and services, ERE caters to diverse market segments that require swift and effective environmental solutions. Whether it’s the need for air, water, or soil treatment, we have a wide selection of topnotch equipment designed to monitor, sample, filter, and treat environmental elements. Our solutions are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each project, ensuring maximum efficiency and impact.
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC
9255 Coverdale Road
Fort Wayne IN 46809
Tel: 800-269-0063
Toll Free: 800-269-0063
Email: cleanwater@fele.com
franklinwater.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/franklinwater
High-Performance Pumps. Legendary Motors. Engineered Drives. From groundwater to demanding agriculture and irrigation jobs and more, confidently tackle any water system challenge with Franklin Electric’s complete and reliable solutions backed by our team of experts delivering industry-leading service and support.
MILLS MACHINE CO. INC.
201 North Oklahoma Shawnee OK 74801
Tel: 405-273-4900
Fax: 405-273-4956
Email: sales@millsmachine.com
www.MillsMachine.com
X: @MillsMachineCo
Facebook: Mills Machine Co
Mills Machine Company (est. 1908) is a custom manufacturer of Earth Drilling Tools, Bits, & Related Accessories for Water Well, Environmental, Mining, Geo-Thermal, Geo-Technical, Soil Sampling, Construction & Shallow Oil & Gas Drilling.
Products include Hollow Stem & Solid Flight
Augers & Bits, Rotary Drag, Claw & Roller Bits, Rotary Subs (we have over 600 different thread gages), Stabilizers, Drag & Roller Underreamers, Hole Openers, Fishing Tools, Hoist Plugs, Casing Cutters, Perforators and a wide variety of Custom Manufactured Bits and Tools.
Pentair is a leading global provider of solutions that bring clean water into the home. Includes well water pumps, tanks and pressure-boosting systems in the Berkeley, Starite and Pentek brands.
Solution Mécanique Diésel (SMD Drilling Equipments) is a Quebec-based company selling machines and parts for all surface drilling equipment and artesian wells, which is truly committed to offering an incomparable service for the maintenance, repair and reconditioning of this type of equipment.
They also offer labor rental services for mechanics specializing in drills on sites, and are dealers of RTDrill and StonePower drills, Technidrill drilling consumables (DTH rods as well as top hammer rods and bits), Montabert perforators and masts, and several other products. Their customers have quick access to a large inventory of spare parts to avoid production losses in case of breakage.
SUMMIT WATER
4-405 Maple Grove Road
Cambridge ON N3E 1B6
Tel: 519-843-4232
Email: info@summitwater.ca
summitwater.ca
Summit Water brings together three businesses: Net Zero Water, Interpump Supply, and Pinnacle Water Treatment. Net Zero Water is a leader in the design and manufacture of commercial rainwater re-use systems. Interpump distributes pumps and water equipment for residential, commercial, municipal and industrial markets. Pinnacle Water Treatment designs and assembles advanced water treatment systems.
WATERLINE ENVIROTECH LTD
4301 Squalicum Lake Road
Bellingham WA 98226
Tel: 360-676-9635
Email: contact@waterlineusa.com
waterlineusa.com
Waterline Envirotech Ltd. is a small woman-owned and operated business which has been serving the public, private and government sectors of the water well industry for over 47 years. Our instruments are manufactured using either a strong, flexible 3/8”wide tape with stainless steel conductors or a light duty 1/4”-wide tape and are housed on a durable, plastic, free-standing, braked reel. Our products are manufactured in the USA. More information and pricing at WaterlineUSA.com.
WESTLAKE PIPE & FITTINGS
www.westlakepipe.com/en-ca
Westlake Pipe & Fittings is a leading manufacturer of innovative piping solutions dedicated to building a better foundation. Water Well products are no exception. Specializing in PVC pipe, their products are inherently corrosion resistant. The innovative Certa-Lok® line offers advances that make both well casing and drop pipe easy to install in any weather and more durable than materials like metal pipe. Westlake Pipe & Fittings ensures its products meet the highest industry standards, supporting efficient and safe installations. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction makes them a trusted partner in the piping industry. For more information, visit their website: westlakepipe.com
PRODUCTS › DRILLING
FISHING TOOLS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
GROUTING SYSTEMS/ EQUIPMENT
Central Mine Equipment Co.
GROUTS & SEALANTS
CETCO
GUIDE SHOES
Central Mine Equipment Co.
HAMMER BITS
Ame Drill Supply & Services Inc.
Central Mine Equipment Co.
HAMMERS, DOWN-THE-HOLE
Ame Drill Supply & Services Inc.
Central Mine Equipment Co.
HOISTING PLUGS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
HOLE ABANDONMENT
PRODUCTS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
CETCO
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
PRODUCTS › DRILLING
HORIZONTAL BORING
EQUIPMENT
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
HOSES
Central Mine Equipment Co.
LOCKING PLUGS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
ERE Inc
LUBRICANTS
Central Mine Equipment Co. CETCO
MUD PUMPS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PACKERS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PELLETS, BENTONITE
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PERFORATORS
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
PITLESS ADAPTORS & UNITS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PUMPS, BOOSTER
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric
PUMPS, GROUT
Central Mine Equipment Co.
ROTARY DRILL BITS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
ROTARY DRILL COLLARS
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
ROTARY SUBS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
SCREENS, FIBREGLASS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
SCREENS, FLUSH THREADED
Central Mine Equipment Co.
SCREENS, PLASTIC
Central Mine Equipment Co.
STABILIZERS
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
STRAINERS, SUCTION
Central Mine Equipment Co.
TOOL WRENCHES & TONGS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
UNDERREAMERS
Mills Machine Co. Inc.
WELL SCREENS & POINTS, METAL
Central Mine Equipment Co.
WELL SCREENS & POINTS, NONMETAL
Central Mine Equipment Co.
WELL SEALS & CAPS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PRODUCTS › PUMPS AND ACCESSORIES
CONTROLS, CONSTANT PRESSURE
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
CONTROLS, PUMPS
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
DRIVES, VARIABLE FREQUENCY
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
FILTER SOCKS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
ERE Inc
FLOATS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
GAUGES ERE Inc
LIQUID LEVEL CONTROLS
Pentair Canada, Inc.
MOTORS, ELECTRIC
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
MOTORS, JET PUMP
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
MOTORS, SUBMERSIBLE PUMP
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
MOTORS, VERTICAL TURBINE
Franklin Electric
PUMPS, CENTRIFUGAL
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, HIGH PRESSURE
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, INDUSTRIAL
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, JET
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric
Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, RECIPROCATING
Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, SAMPLING ERE Inc
PUMPS, SOLAR
Franklin Electric
PUMPS, SUBMERSIBLE
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, SUMP
DAB PUMPS CANADA Inc.
Franklin Electric Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, VERTICAL TURBINE
Franklin Electric
SEPARATORS, ABOVE GROUND ERE Inc
SEPARATORS, SUBMERSIBLE ERE Inc
SURGE BLOCKS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
SWITCHES, FLOAT
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
SWITCHES, PRESSURE ERE Inc
TANK COVERS ERE Inc
TANK FILTERS ERE Inc
TANK FITTINGS
ERE Inc
TANKS, FIBREGLASS
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
TANKS, PLASTIC ERE Inc
TANKS, PRESSURE GALVANIZED Pentair Canada, Inc.
TANKS, STEEL
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
WATER LEVEL INDICATORS/ CONTROLS
Central Mine Equipment Co.
PRODUCTS › WATER TREATMENT
ACTIVATED CARBONS
ERE Inc
AERATION EQUIPMENT
ERE Inc
Franklin Electric
CHLORINE REMOVAL SYSTEMS
Pentair Canada, Inc.
DECONTAMINATION PRODUCTS & SERVICES
ERE Inc
FILTER MEDIA
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
FILTERS, ACID NEUTRALIZING
ERE Inc
FILTERS, AUTOMATIC
ERE Inc
FILTERS, BACTERIAL REMOVAL
ERE Inc
FILTERS, CARTRIDGE
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
FILTERS, COLOUR & TURBIDITY
ERE Inc
FILTERS, DISPOSABLE/ PORTABLE
ERE Inc
FILTERS, HYDROGREN SULPHIDE
ERE Inc
FILTERS, IRON REMOVAL
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
FILTERS, TASTE & ODOUR
ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
IRON BACTERIA CONTROL SYSTEM
ERE Inc
IRON REMOVAL EQUIPMENT
Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, CHEMICAL FEED
Pentair Canada, Inc.
PUMPS, REVERSE OSMOSIS
Franklin Electric
Pentair Canada, Inc.
REVERSE OSMOSIS EQUIPMENT
Pentair Canada, Inc.
SAND FILTER MEDIA
Central Mine Equipment Co.
ERE Inc
SANITIZERS
ERE Inc
SCALE REMOVAL CHEMICALS/ EQUIPMENT
ERE Inc
SOFTENER CABINETS
Pentair Canada, Inc.
SOLUTION TANKS
Pentair Canada, Inc.
ULTRAFILTRATION SYSTEMS
ERE Inc
ULTRAVIOLET SYSTEMS
ERE Inc
WASTE TREATMENT
ERE Inc
WATER CONDITIONING
Pentair Canada, Inc.
WATER SOFTENERS, AUTOMATIC ERE Inc
Pentair Canada, Inc.
WATER WELL CLEANING BRUSHES
ERE Inc
WELL CHEMICALS & SUPPLIES
CETCO
ERE Inc
B.C.’s need to work together
by Kat Hartwig & Nicole Trigg
As the 2024 B.C. election approached, there was a lot of debate dedicated to party platforms and campaign promises. Among the trending topics of concern – the economy and the cost of living, housing and health care, and the contentious carbon tax –there’s one underlying issue critical to the rest: the concept of watershed security.
Watershed security involves protecting the health of watersheds, which are vital for clean water, flood control, groundwater recharge, biodiversity, agriculture, recreation, and overall wellbeing. Healthy watersheds are key to a prosperous B.C.
But climate change is wreaking havoc on B.C. watersheds. And this reality is here to stay until the global community gets a grip on planet-warming emissions. Atmospheric rivers and out-of-control wildfires can cause catastrophic damage; heat domes and intense drought negatively impact human and ecosystem health. Combine intensifying climate impacts with unsustainable land-use practices (e.g. clearcut logging in a drought-stricken area) and the result is devastating.
The 2024 State of the Climate report published by Oxford University grimly states that planet earth is “on the brink of an irreversible climate disaster… a global emergency beyond any doubt.” A survey of B.C. residents conducted earlier this year on behalf of Organizing for Change found that 76 per cent of B.C. residents are concerned about climate change. In a regional poll about groundwater – a vital freshwater source that is facing increasing demand as climate change stresses surface water supplies – Living Lakes Canada found that 88.8 per cent of Columbia Basin respondents were concerned or very concerned, with drinking water and ecosystem health concerns topping the list.
As the world grapples with the transition to a low-carbon future amid rising inflation and climate uncertainty, the road ahead is challenging
and can seem overwhelming. The good news in British Columbia is that countless individuals, organizations and First Nations are working together to protect and restore local watersheds and their natural functions. However, the long-term success of this watershed security work is dependent on political will and sustained funding.
In recent years, the B.C. government has made significant progress through initiatives like the 2021 Healthy Watershed Initiative and subsequent watershed investments totalling $57 million that funded close to 150 progressive projects across the province. The creation of the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship was a much-needed development that moved healthy watershed management out from under the Ministry of Forests, and the establishment of B.C.’s first Watershed Security Fund as an endowment fund in budget 2023 with an initial $100 million investment was a progressive step, but the buck can’t stop there. The annual baseline budget for grants and programs that this fund will generate is $3-5 million, a paltry sum compared to the $11.2-billion investment over three years that budget 2023 allocated for new health-care infrastructure.
Watersheds are natural infrastructure that require substantial funding support just like health-care infrastructure. Investing in watershed protection is a critical component of societal well-being. Today, 144 monitoring sites are collecting important water and climate data to inform local adaptation strategies and water management planning for rural communities. A water mapping resource, using this data, accelerated the response time in the fight to save the community of Argenta from an out-of-control wildfire in July.
Kat Hartwig is executive director of Living Lakes Canada. Nicole Trigg is communications director and government liaison with Living Lakes Canada.
