Groundwater, Wells and Water Supply

In the Comox Valley – Are You Vulnerable?

Do you think because your drinking water doesn’t come from Comox Lake or surface water , you are off the hook for an ongoing, potable source of water? Do you think that aquifers, the source of groundwater, provide unlimited abundance and flow? Think again - because when it comes to our drinking water and its future protection, even residents who rely on wells require awareness and education.

On Wednesday, May 20th, at 7 pm, the Comox Valley Water Watch Coalition will present hydro-geologist Pat Lapcevic from the Ministry of Environment in Namaimo, to speak about aquifers. The presentation will take place at the Evergreen Seniors Lounge in the Filberg Centre in Courtenay. It is open to the public free of charge.

Pat, a professional hydro-geologist with the Ministry of Environment based in Nanaimo, has over 20 years experience studying groundwater in a variety of diverse settings. Currently she leads a small team who are maintaining a network of dedicated observation wells, ensuring compliance with the provincial regulations, responding to complaints and inquiries from the public and carrying out several studies to better understand and protect groundwater resources in this region.

Pat will talk about the basics of groundwater protection and aquifers, groundwater resources in the region, common groundwater quality and quantity concerns, current and upcoming groundwater regulations and information and tools available through the Ministry of Environment which are available to the public.

The highlight of her talk will focus on the Vancouver Island Water Resources (Aquifer) Vulnerability Mapping Project - a research study that is analyzing the susceptibility of water quality to hazards associated with human activities and land use. Using GIS technology, it is designed to support decision-making in future land use planning, and the development of groundwater protection policies and guidelines. Pat is the project manager of this collaborative effort that involves the Ministry of the Environment, Vancouver Island Health Authority, Natural Resources Canada, Vancouver Island University (formerly Malaspina University College), the Regional Districts of both the Cowichan Valley and Nanaimo, the Islands Trusts, and the Ministry of Health.

Notes Kathleen Kinasewich, coordinator of CVWWC, "It’s just May, the winter snow pack is low, and some wells are already at summer drought lows ! So, addressing the issues of aquifer protection is timely and a vital part of the bigger picture - protecting all of our water sources today so that there’s plenty for the future."

The Comox Valley Water Watch Coalition works to ensure that all groups, elected officials and individuals interested in maintaining, improving and protectomg the local Comox Valley watersheds and water sources have the resources and education to do more.

For more information, call 335-0747 or visit http://www.comoxvalleywaterwatch.blogspot.com/