Where Does Our Water Come From?

Source: Conservation OntarioSource: Conservation OntarioWater is all around us; in the air, under the ground, and in lakes, rivers and streams. But where exactly does the water we use and depend upon every day come from? Depending on where you live in Canada, the water you drink, wash in, spray on your garden and use to prepare food comes from either surface water or groundwater. Most people who live in towns or cities will get there water from surface waters, where as most people living in rural areas will get their water from groundwater via wells.

Read Local: Where Does Your Water Come From?

Adapted from Pollution Probe's Drinking Water Primer 

Surface Water

Fawn Lake Entrance. Source: Mississippi Valley ConservationFawn Lake Entrance. Source: Mississippi Valley ConservationLakes, streams, rivers, and ponds make up surface water sources. The majority of drinking water in Canada comes from surface water. As water is drawn from the surface for use, it is replenished with precipitation from rain and snow, as well as ice melt, and groundwater.

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Groundwater

Groundwater flows below the surface of the earth, between cracks in rocks and soil particles. Of all the fresh water in the world, two-thirds is underground, making groundwater one of the most valuable resources.

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