HOW TO PROTECT WATER QUALITY
Did you know:
Wineries are required to monitor water quality?
Wineries that rely on well water should sample their water for microbiological testing at least once every three months in accordance with Ontario Regulation 319 – Small Drinking Water Systems.
It is recommended that wineries test well water annually for other contaminants of concern including nitrates, sulphites, sulphides, and methane to monitor any changes in water quality.
Activities carried out at a winery could potentially contaminate well water?
Refrain from conducting any activities, or placing any infrastructure, that involves potential contaminants within 30m of the well or uphill from the well. This includes:
- Septic tanks
- Holding tanks
- Storage or handling of fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, or other chemicals
- Storage or handling of fuel
Maintain secure vermin-proof cap and sealed lids on top of the well to prevent bugs or other sources of contaminants from entering the well.
Drilling deeper wells may impact water quality?
Depending on the characteristics of the local aquifer, drilling deeper may increase the risk of encountering contaminants. For example, deep wells in Prince Edward County are more likely to have higher levels of salt or methane.