The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) has issued a water quality advisory for the South Pender Harbour water system.
According to the advisory from the SCRD, high turbidity levels have been detected in the drinking water supply. High turbidity (cloudiness) levels may occur in surface water sources due to seasonal weather changes causing excessive surface runoff, flooding or lake turnover. A high turbidity level may impair the effectiveness of the disinfection treatment system. If disinfection is impaired, disease-causing microorganisms may be present in the water distribution system resulting in an increased risk of intestinal illness. People with undeveloped or weakened immune systems, infants, and elderly may be at increased risk.
"Due to the above concerns and as a precautionary measure, people with undeveloped or weakened immune systems are advised to bring all water to a rolling boil for at least one minute and let it cool before using it or use bottled water," stated the SCRD advisory. "Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice. "
The South Pender Harbour Water System uses water from McNeil Lake and Haslam Creek.
Since Jan. 1, 2008, the South Pender water system has been under the management of the SCRD. Needed upgrades to the system have been identified, including a water treatment plant and metering, projects that will cost in excess of $6 million. This spring, federal and provincial government funding was applied for based on completed studies that outline the requirements for upgrading the water system in North and South Pender Harbour. These funding requests are currently under review and the SCRD hope's to have more information by summer's end.
For more information on the advisory, contact the SCRD at 604-885-6806 or 604-885-6877 or see www.scrd.ca.
