TRENDS IN WATER MANAGEMENT

Chemicals in water - Worse

Herbicides have often been detected in water samples, even in potable water supplies

Groundwater levels - Same

With few exceptions, there has been little change over past 25 years.

Water monitoring - Better

The network of monitoring stations has been greatly expanded since the 70s.

Wastewater treatment - Better

Treatment facilities continue to be upgraded throughout the province.

Levels of contaminants in fish - Better

Chemicals such as PCBs or DDT in fish samples have declined since the 70s.

Public participation - Better

Organizations and individuals are becoming increasingly involved in water monitoring and habitat rehabilitation programs.

Source: Manitoba Gov. Report: State of the Environment 1991

In 1975, the Clean Environment Commission reported that 33 Manitoba communities were experiencing some degree of water contamination from petroleum leaks or spills. The extent of damage at a contaminated site is often not discovered until years later. By then clean-up may be impossible and the cost of remedial action far beyond the financial capability of the property owner. In some cases, the responsible party cannot be identified. Government departments may have to fund the clean-up - a situation which the United States had to address through their $5 billion Superfund.