Public Notice - Water Quality Update

The Town of Bonavista has received a number of inquiries from residents regarding the current appearance and colour of the municipal water. Some residents have described the water as looking dirty, and we understand that this may be concerning.

The current discolouration is not related to any recent or ongoing work being completed by the Town’s Public Works Department. Bonavista’s water supply comes from a natural pond, and its appearance can vary from year to year depending on environmental conditions. During years with higher rainfall, increased runoff into the pond can cause the water to become more noticeably discoloured.

The Town treats the municipal water supply by maintaining the appropriate pH level with soda ash and disinfecting the water through chlorination. While this treatment process may slightly improve the colour, it does not fully remove the natural discolouration from the water supply. At this time, there are no additional operational measures available to the Town that would significantly improve its appearance.

The Town recently completed a water quality study with CBCL Limited. The study found that addressing the ongoing discolouration would require the development of a full-scale water treatment facility at an estimated cost of approximately $12.5 million with an annual operating cost of approximately $345,000.00.

No decision has been made regarding how, whether or when the Town may proceed with such a facility. There are many financial, operational and long-term planning factors that must be considered. Council is reviewing the available options and taking the findings of the study and the significant cost of a new treatment facility into serious consideration.

We appreciate residents bringing their concerns forward and thank the public for their patience and understanding as Council continues to examine this important issue.