Ending long-term drinking water advisories

The long-term drinking water advisory affecting Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation's Public Water System, in Ontario, has been lifted effective December 1, 2022. The advisory affected 95 homes and 7 community buildings. Upgrades to the plant, including the installation of a new back-up power system and high volume pump, have been completed. ISC is currently working with the First Nation to advance the design stage of their project to address the long-term water needs of the community.

The long-term drinking water advisory affecting Sachigo Lake First Nation's Public Water System in Ontario was lifted on October 12, 2022. An upgrade to the community's water treatment system and expansion of the wastewater lagoon has been completed. The water quality meets safe drinking water requirements. Operational support is provided through the ISC-funded Hub delivered by Windigo Tribal Council.

The drinking water advisory affecting Lac La Croix First Nation's public water system, in Ontario, became long-term on January 5, 2023, as it has been in effect for more than 12 months. Repairs to the system have been completed and the plant is operational. However, low chlorine levels in the distribution system are being experienced. The ISC-funded Pwi-Di-Goo-Zing Ne-Yaa-Zhing Advisory Services Water and Wastewater Hub and the Giishkaandago’Ikwe Health Services Environmental Public Health Officer continue to provide support to the local water operator to address the issue.

The drinking water advisory affecting Fort Severn First Nation's public drinking water system, in Ontario, became long-term on December 29, 2022, as it has been in effect for more than 12 months. The advisory is in place due to issues with the raw water reservoir and affects 110 homes and 6 community buildings. ISC is supporting the First Nation and the Keewaytinook Okimakanak Water and Wastewater Hub to address the issues and interim repairs are underway. ISC is also supporting the First Nation on a project to upgrade the treatment system to address the long-term water needs of the community. Construction of this project is set to begin in spring 2023.

The drinking water advisory affecting Chippewas of the Thames First Nation's public water system, in Ontario, became long-term on December 14, 2022, as it has been in effect for more than 12 months. The advisory affects 365 homes and 20 community buildings and is in place because water production cannot meet the current demand. ISC is working in collaboration with the First Nation to implement their action plan to address the long-term drinking water advisory. A bottling station to mitigate the need for bottled water is now under construction. Repairs to the distribution system to address any leaks are complete. A feasibility study is currently underway to assess options to meet the community's long-term drinking water needs.