When considering a source of drinking water, it is important to recognize that the watershed is shared with others who often have competing interests. For example, the resource extraction, tourism, and agriculture industries are important contributors to the economy of British Columbia but without proper land use management, these activities could impact drinking water sources. Population growth also puts pressure on our watersheds and aquifers.
In order to take these multiple interests and demands into account, water suppliers can conduct a source assessment which they can use to create a source protection plan. The source assessment report and source protection plan are important tools in maintaining a safe and sustainable supply of drinking water.
Source Assessments and Source Protection Plans
Source Assessments and Source Protection Plans help you to:
- have a better understanding of your water source
- identify the observed and potential hazards to your source
- assess the significance of the risks associated with natural and human-made hazards
- manage the risks of the hazards with corrective measures (mitigation strategies)