IMPROVEMENTS IN DRINKING WATER COMPLIANCE

Saskatchewan communities are showing significant improvements in meeting drinking water quality objectives.

The 2001/02 Drinking Water Compliance Report shows that overall compliance in submitting drinking water sample submissions has increased. The bacteriological quality of the water of several communities has also improved.

"Saskatchewan Environment is pleased to see results that show an improvement over the previous year," Environment Minister Buckley Belanger said.

The Report reviews the overall compliance of Saskatchewan's municipal water systems and reports on elements such as sample submission compliance and performance of waterworks in meeting drinking water quality objectives. It also identifies specific community waterworks with poor drinking water or inadequate treatment facilities and poor compliance to the regulated monitoring and reporting requirements. The Report compares the results to those of the previous fiscal year.

"We are pleased with the improved results; however, we recognize that there is still more that needs to be done. Saskatchewan Environment will continue to work with communities to help provide Saskatchewan people with safe, clean drinking water," Belanger said. "Safe drinking water can only be achieved through diligence and constant attention by communities and all participants who play a role in meeting our objectives."

Copies of the report can be found on the Saskatchewan Environment website at: www.se.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Sam Ferris Environment Regina Phone: (306)787-6193