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Drinking Water Quality and Testing

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Multi-Barrier Approach for Ensuring High-Quality Drinking Water​

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Metro Vancouver provides high-quality drinking water through a comprehensive multi-barrier approach. This includes protecting source water supply areas, applying advanced water treatment processes, and maintaining water quality throughout the distribution network​. Continuous monitoring and testing at every stage help ensure high-quality and reliable drinking water for the region.

Drinking water quality testing results

Metro Vancouver tests the quality of our drinking water every day, completing more than 169,000 tests each year from across the water system.

Results are available to the public in the annual Water Quality Annual Reports. Volume 1 uses summaries and charts to explain water quality results and highlight any important issues. Volume 2 provides detailed monitoring data, including chemical and physical test results for many water quality parameters.

 

 

2025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 1https://metrovancouver.org/services/water/Documents/water-quality-annual-report-volume-1-2025.pdf, 2025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 12025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 1
2025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 2https://metrovancouver.org/services/water/Documents/water-quality-annual-report-volume-2-2025.pdf, 2025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 22025 Water Quality Annual Report – Volume 2

Additional testing by your municipality

Municipalities that purchase water wholesale from Metro Vancouver and deliver it to residents and businesses also test for water quality regularly. Check with your municipality if you want to see a water quality report.

Common questions about your drinking water​​​​​

Aesthetic – ta​​​ste, odour, and appearance​​

 

 

Why is the water cloudy and/or turbid?Why is the water cloudy and/or turbid?<div class="ExternalClassF207A5CED8D74069A4309C07368AC100"><p>There are two main causes of cloudy and/or turbid drinking water.</p><p>First, turbidity can occur within the drinking water distribution system, when there are significant changes in water pressure, amount of flow, or flow direction. Examples include:</p><ul><li>Construction activities that disturb water mains and stir up particles</li><li>Flow reversals within the water transmission or distribution system</li><li>High water demands caused by firefighting activities or water tanker/truck filling</li><li>Increased water usage during hot weather</li><li>​Water main flushing, cleaning programs, or hydrant testing and operation</li></ul><p>Second, source water turbidity can occur when sediment and fine particles enter a source water reservoir, often because of significant rainfall, runoff, or landslides within a water supply area. During these events, Metro Vancouver adjusts treatment processes and increases disinfection as needed to maintain drinking water quality.</p><p>If your water appears cloudy, allow a glass of water to sit undisturbed for a few minutes. If the cloudiness clears from the bottom up, it is most likely caused by tiny air bubbles and is not a water quality concern. If the water remains cloudy or contains visible particles, running a cold-water tap for several minutes may help clear the water. If the condition persists, contact your local member jurisdiction for further assistance. See member jurisdiction contacts on this page.​<br></p></div>
Why is the water discoloured (yellow or rusty)?Why is the water discoloured (yellow or rusty)?<div class="ExternalClass2B1BE9391BC0419582C1ED3BFACED919"><p>Water main repairs, construction activities, maintenance work, and fire hydrant flushing can sometimes disturb rust and sediment that have built up on the inside of water mains. When this occurs, the water may temporarily appear yellow, brown, rusty, or cloudy.</p><p>If you see discoloured water, run a cold-water tap for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the water runs clear. If the discolouration persists, wait 30 minutes and try again.</p> ​​ </div>
Why does my tap water have a chlorine taste and/or odour?Why does my tap water have a chlorine taste and/or odour?<div class="ExternalClass9BB93145F7D740C8A7A8070E4C7045F2"><p>Metro Vancouver uses chlorine to disinfect drinking water and protect it from harmful microorganisms.</p><p>A stronger chlorine taste or odour may occasionally be noticed for several reasons, including:</p><ul><li>The residence is located close to a water treatment plant or secondary disinfection station</li><li>Higher water demand causes water to travel more quickly through the distribution system, leaving less time for chlorine levels to naturally dissipate</li><li>Colder water temperatures allow chlorine to remain in the water longer</li><li>A turbidity event at the Coquitlam water source required increased chlorine dosing at the treatment plant and/or re-chlorination station to maintain water quality</li> </ul>​<p>Chlorine levels in drinking water are maintained within prescribed limits and meet all applicable drinking water standards. If you find the chlorine taste or odour unpleasant, you can reduce it by filling a container with water and storing it in the refrigerator. Much of the chlorine will naturally dissipate overnight. Some people also find that adding slices of lemon or cucumber improves the taste of the water.</p></div>
Why does my water have a chemical taste?Why does my water have a chemical taste?<div class="ExternalClassC80935F3F13B4C3590F56B5954A1FE6B"><p>If a home has new pipes, faucets, or hoses, small amounts of compounds from these materials may leach into the water and temporarily affect its taste. This is normal and the taste usually disappears after a few weeks of regular use. Water that remains stagnant in plastic or rubber tubing for extended periods can also absorb compounds that affect aesthetics. To help reduce any noticeable taste, run the water for a few minutes before drinking it.​<br></p></div>
Why does my water smell and taste earthy or musty?Why does my water smell and taste earthy or musty?<div class="ExternalClass6C2005931627408E95D4C1BE828CC529"><p>One of the most common compounds that can affect drinking water with an earthy or musty odour is geosmin. Although you may be able to smell and taste it, geosmin is considered non-toxic.</p><p>Geosmin is common in many water supplies all over the world, including other regions in Canada. Geosmin can be produced by microbes and naturally occurring algae in water and sediments as well as by soil bacteria. Changes in pH, organic carbon, nutrient levels, heavy rain, and warm temperatures can promote growth of certain microbes which produce geosmin.</p><p>More information about geosmin monitoring data is available in Metro Vancouver’s <a href="/services/water/reports-resources" target="_blank">Water Quality Annual Report​</a>.</p>​ </div>
What is the pink film on my bathtub, shower curtain or toilet?What is the pink film on my bathtub, shower curtain or toilet?<div class="ExternalClass09D530CE3BAD44B4A5D488E8789CC819"><p>The pink film commonly found in bathrooms, including tubs, showers, sink drains, and toilets, is typically a biofilm caused by the bacterium Serratia marcescens. This bacterium thrives in warm, moist environments and feeds on residues such as soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and body oils.</p><p>While Serratia marcescens is generally harmless to healthy individuals, it can pose a health risk to people with weakened immune systems.</p><p>The pink film can be removed by cleaning affected surfaces with a diluted bleach solution or another suitable disinfectant. Regular cleaning and reducing moisture buildup can help prevent it from returning.</p>​ </div>

Drinking water chemi​​​stry

 

 

Is fluoride added to Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?Is fluoride added to Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass687B006AACA9411BA2963BFC2BE1D725"><p>Fluoride is not added to our drinking water. The natural level in the source waters, Capilano, Seymour and Coquitlam Lakes is <0.05 mg/L.</p>​<br></div>
What is the hardness of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?What is the hardness of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass4C3FEE64A2E047EFB39704C03B09A50B"><p>Water hardness is a measure of the concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, in a water supply. These minerals occur naturally as water passes through soil and rock formations. Hardness can also be affected by compounds added at the water treatment plant, particularly lime (calcium hydroxide). Lime is used to adjust alkalinity, which is a measure of a solution's ability to neutralize, or buffer against, acidity.</p><p>Metro Vancouver's drinking water is considered soft water. Water supplied from the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Plant has an average hardness of approximately 20 mg/L as CaCO₃, while water supplied from the Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant has an average hardness of approximately 2.5 mg/L as CaCO₃.</p><p>The difference in hardness between the two water treatment plants relates to the ways alkalinity is adjusted. At the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Plant, lime (calcium hydroxide) is used the while at the Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant soda ash (sodium carbonate) is used.​<br></p><p>Water hardness is sometimes expressed in grains per gallon (gpg) rather than milligrams per litre (mg/L), for example in instruction manuals for appliances. To convert hardness:</p><ul><li>mg/L to grains per Imperial gallon: divide by 14.25</li><li>mg/L to grains per U.S. gallon: divide by 17.1</li></ul>​<br></div>
What does "soft water" mean?What does "soft water" mean?<div class="ExternalClassAA8FBD5BAA7545DC9155EB6E03E015E9"><p>​​Soft water contains very low levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals. As a result, soap lathers more easily and there is less mineral buildup on sinks, fixtures, and household appliances. Less scaling contributes to improved efficiency and longer equipment life. Metro Vancouver's drinking water is considered soft water.​<br></p></div>

​Contaminants of health an​​​d emerging concern

 

 

Is there lead in the drinking water?Is there lead in the drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass3FFB6395C8C74283BD9B18F5D94B38CF"><p>There are no measurable levels of lead in Metro Vancouver's drinking water when it leaves the treatment plants, and no lead is used within Metro Vancouver's water transmission system.</p><p>Lead may be present in older sections of local water distribution systems, as well as in lead solder, brass fixtures, and other plumbing components within homes. These materials can contribute to lead being in drinking water as water passes through them.</p><p>If you have older plumbing fixtures, such as faucets made with leaded brass, consider replacing them with certified lead-free products. When purchasing new fixtures, look for certification to NSF/ANSI/CAN 372, which verifies compliance with lead-free requirements for drinking water system components.</p><p>If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, flushing the tap by running cold water for several minutes after water has been sitting in the pipes for an extended period can help reduce potential exposure. Using cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing infant formula is also recommended.</p>​ </div>
Is there asbestos in the water from asbestos cement pipes?Is there asbestos in the water from asbestos cement pipes?<div class="ExternalClass278C920450B34CBE8CA35982CC01FD2F"><p>Metro Vancouver has very little asbestos cement pipe remaining in its water transmission system, with approximately 3.2 km still in service.</p><p>Replacement of asbestos cement pipe is ongoing and forms part of Metro Vancouver's long-term asset management strategy for maintaining and renewing aging water infrastructure.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality.html" target="_blank">Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality​</a> state that a drinking water guideline for asbestos is not necessary, as there is no evidence that exposure to asbestos through drinking water causes adverse health effects. As a result, asbestos in drinking water is not considered a health concern by Health Canada.</p> </div>
Is there PFAS in the drinking water?Is there PFAS in the drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass4CA3BA6354B749BAB2FBF257751D7AF1"><p>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been widely used in industrial processes and consumer products. PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they are highly persistent and can remain in the environment for long periods of time. Studies have shown that PFAS can travel through soil, water, and air, allowing them to spread far from their original source. As a result, PFAS have been detected worldwide in people, wildlife, fish, and various environmental media, including remote locations.</p><p>Although PFAS have been identified in water, air, and soil in many parts of the world, the current risk of PFAS contamination in Metro Vancouver’s drinking water supply is considered low.</p><p>Regular monitoring and testing have confirmed that PFAS concentrations in both source water and treated drinking water remain well below Health Canada's drinking water objective of 30 ng/L, which applies to the combined concentration of 25 specified PFAS compounds.</p><p>More information on Metro Vancouver's water quality monitoring program, including PFAS testing results, is available in the <a href="/services/water/reports-resources" target="_blank">Water Quality Annual Report​</a>.</p> </div>
How would a fire in the watershed affect the water quality?How would a fire in the watershed affect the water quality?<div class="ExternalClassDB55ACF3B49C40B7A49F39AAA9D30603"><p>A fire in the watershed can affect water quality, particularly in the period following the event. The loss of vegetation increases erosion, allowing ash, soil, and debris to wash into streams and reservoirs, which can raise turbidity. Ash can also add nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, potentially promoting algal growth. In addition, contaminants released during burning may enter watercourses through rainfall runoff, affecting aquatic ecosystems and water treatment processes. Wildfires can also alter water chemistry, including pH and oxygen levels, which may further impact source water quality.</p><p>​Metro Vancouver’s watershed protection program includes highly trained staff with the expertise in wildfire management and response to protect the regions drinking water supply areas from wildfire. Staff are ready to respond 24/7 throughout the wildfire season. If a wildfire occurs, enhanced water quality testing would be implemented to ensure drinking water remains of high quality.​ </p></div>
Could fire retardants used to fight wildfires in watersheds affect drinking water quality?Could fire retardants used to fight wildfires in watersheds affect drinking water quality?<div class="ExternalClass9B53F34D2E104A859A5FB5D8435F764A"><p>​​Fire retardant, although of very low risk to human health and the environment, would only be used in water supply areas if a fire threatened public and/or responder safety, critical infrastructure, or was deemed to have spread potential that would have impacts on water quality outweighing any potential water quality risks of the fire retardant product itself.</p><p>​Phos-Chek is the main fire retardant used in BC and consists primarily of diammonium sulphate, ammonium sulphate, or ammonium polyphosphate, which are also used in many agricultural fertilizers and are considered safe for use as they do not contain intentionally added ​PFAS chemicals. </p></div>
What are microplastics?What are microplastics?<div class="ExternalClass199F5A8FDA9E4D06B9DA56680B53FB9A"><p>​​Microplastics (typically less than 5 mm in size) form from the breakdown of larger plastic material. The use of plastics is worldwide and has been detected across all environments. There is growing interest in the drinking water industry in North America and globally regarding the presence of microplastics in drinking water and their potential impact on human health and municipal water treatment.</p><p>Metro Vancouver closely follows provincial and federal drinking water standards for emerging contaminants and potential exposure to the region’s water supply. Exposure to microplastics can come from a wide range of sources, however, the region’s drinking water is not likely a key source of microplastics given our protected water supply areas.</p><p>Metro Vancouver is not currently measuring for microplastics, largely because there are no regulatory standards or guideline values for microplastics in drinking water in Canada or most other jurisdictions around the world.</p><p>​Metro Vancouver remains informed on emerging research related to microplastics and routinely engages with industry organizations, researchers, regulators, and water sector partners to stay current on scientific developments and best practices. </p></div>
Are there disinfection by-products (DBP) in the drinking water?Are there disinfection by-products (DBP) in the drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass8AF09D22D7C0499B9F3E66E7920E40B4"><p>Metro Vancouver works closely with the member jurisdictions and health authorities to follow the <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality.html" target="_blank">Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality</a> with regards to the types and frequency of testing for DBPs in the transmission and distribution systems. Results for each sampling site are calculated using a running locational average using quarterly sampling.</p><p>Detailed information about Metro Vancouver’s water quality testing, including DBPs, can be found in Metro Vancouver’s <a href="/services/water/reports-resources" target="_blank">Water Quality Annual Report​</a>. </p></div>

​Disinfec​​​​tion and microbiology

 

 

Does Metro Vancouver use chloramine for the disinfection of drinking water?Does Metro Vancouver use chloramine for the disinfection of drinking water?<div class="ExternalClassE0E1509A9431471889E6C023D66ACFA4"><p>No, Metro Vancouver uses ultraviolet light and sodium hypochlorite solution for drinking water disinfection.​<br></p></div>
What are the chlorine levels in Metro Vancouver's drinking water?What are the chlorine levels in Metro Vancouver's drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass6289DE8D84EB41F78F347DD57D7B52F8"><p>The target chlorine residual leaving the Seymour Capilano Filtration Plant is typically 0.80 to 1.0 mg/L.</p><p>The target chlorine residual leaving the Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant is typically 1.3 to 1.5 mg/L. This target may be adjusted throughout the year in response to operational requirements and source water conditions.</p><p>Chlorine helps prevent the growth of bacteria within distribution systems by inactivating harmful microorganisms. Chlorination protects public health by ensuring that drinking water remains disinfected and high-quality as it travels from the treatment plant to residents’ taps.</p>​ </div>
Is there Legionella in Metro Vancouver’s water?Is there Legionella in Metro Vancouver’s water?<div class="ExternalClass8D3AB60986664274A35C2F794D88DDFB"><p>The presence of Legionella in Metro Vancouver's drinking water is considered unlikely. Legionella bacteria are more commonly associated with man-made water systems where water can become stagnant or warm enough to support bacterial growth.</p><p>Examples of systems where Legionella may be found include:</p><ul><li>Cooling towers and cooling systems</li><li>Humidifiers</li><li>Domestic hot and cold-water plumbing systems</li><li>Hot tubs and spa pools</li><li>Large building water systems with complex plumbing networks</li> </ul>​<p>Under certain conditions, Legionella can grow in these environments and become a potential health risk when contaminated water droplets are inhaled. Maintaining appropriate disinfection levels throughout the system helps minimize the potential for microbial growth and protects public health. </p></div>
Is there and risk of infections from Giardia or Cryptosporidium in the drinking water?Is there and risk of infections from Giardia or Cryptosporidium in the drinking water?<div class="ExternalClassFED944E1E00D4B04A6A409A7060CB247"><p>Metro Vancouver's drinking water treatment plants use ultraviolet (UV) disinfection at both the Seymour Capilano Filtration Plant and the Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant.</p><p>UV disinfection is highly effective at inactivating microorganisms, including the cysts and oocysts of waterborne parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Exposure to UV light prevents these organisms from reproducing, rendering them incapable of causing infection.</p>​ </div>

Corros​​​ion

 

 

What is the pH of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?What is the pH of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?<div class="ExternalClassAFE6054BCDF14ABEADEE7B690D6B5CBC"><p>The pH target for both the drinking water treatment plants, Seymour Capilano Filtration Plant and Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant is pH 8.3-8.5.​<br></p></div>
What is the alkalinity of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?What is the alkalinity of Metro Vancouver’s drinking water?<div class="ExternalClass04E34B46022F4BE3BDEC6EF76CDFBFCA"><p>​​The alkalinity target for both the drinking water treatment plants, Seymour Capilano Filtration Plant and Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant is 20 mg/L CaCO3.​ Alkalinity is the measure of a solution's ability to neutralize or buffer acidity.​<br></p></div>
How does Metro Vancouver prevent pipe corrosion?How does Metro Vancouver prevent pipe corrosion?<div class="ExternalClass745E970746E64479882E2F1646FE4601"><p>​Metro Vancouver’s water sources are naturally acidic and soft. Natural minerals are added during the treatment process to increase alkalinity and pH. The Seymour Capilano Filtration Plant uses calcium hydroxide to increase the alkalinity and pH and then uses carbon dioxide to adjust pH to the target level. The Coquitlam Water Treatment Plant uses sodium carbonate to increase the alkalinity and pH and then uses carbon dioxide to adjust pH to the target level. For more information visit <a href="/services/water/corrosion-control-program-copper-pipes-protection" target="_blank">Corrosion Control Program – Copper Pipes Protection​</a>. <br></p></div>

Regul​​ations

 

 

Is bottled water safer than tap water? Is bottled water safer than tap water? <div class="ExternalClass1DDB77E298544885B9E13DCFA74A2F7D"><p>Metro Vancouver’s tap water is required to meet stricter regulations than bottled water. Metro Vancouver follows the <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-water/water/waterquality/water-quality-guidelines/approved-wqgs/drinking-water-and-recreation/source_drinking_water_quality_guidelines_bcenv.pdf">BC Source Drinking Water Quality Guidelines</a> and <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality.html" target="_blank">Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality​</a><br></p></div>
Where can I find information from Health Canada on Drinking Water Quality and the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality?Where can I find information from Health Canada on Drinking Water Quality and the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality?<div class="ExternalClass0115C912055D4C899B67003420E1D48F"><ul class="fa-ul"><li><span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-link"></i></span> <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality.html" target="_blank" title="Water Quality - Reports and Publications - Canada">Water Quality - Reports and Publications - Canada</a></li>​ <li><span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-link"></i></span> <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality/guidelines-canadian-drinking-water-quality-summary-table.html" target="_blank" title="Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality - Summary Tables - Canada">Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality - Summary Tables - Canada</a></li>​ </ul>​</div>

Miscella​​neous

 

 

Is chlorine in tap water harmful to fish?Is chlorine in tap water harmful to fish?<div class="ExternalClass9EF072DF96F94AD9AB5E67A71A50BEA4"><p>Chlorine is harmful to fish in the environment and in home fish aquariums. The necessary chemicals for chlorine removal and test kits are available at most businesses that supply fish and aquariums.​<br></p></div>
Can I have my tap water tested?Can I have my tap water tested?<div class="ExternalClassAA1904A707F3455C9B9377081C770C89"><p>If the concern is health related, the first step is to contact your local member jurisdiction and applicable health authority, to discuss this possibility.</p><p>Otherwise, consider contacting a commercial laboratory that is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 for drinking water testing.</p><p>Where can I find out more information about the results of water quality tests that have been completed?</p><p>Detailed information about Metro Vancouver’s water quality testing program can be found in Metro Vancouver’s <a href="/services/water/reports-resources">Water Quality Annual Report.​</a> </p></div>


Member jurisdiction contacts​


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 Related links

 

 

The Regional Systemhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/water/the-regional-system, The Regional SystemThe Regional System
Watersheds and Reservoirshttps://metrovancouver.org/services/water/watersheds-reservoirs, Watersheds & ReservoirsWatersheds and Reservoirs
Water Treatment and Facilitieshttps://metrovancouver.org/services/water/water-treatment-facilities, Water Treatment & FacilitiesWater Treatment and Facilities
Corrosion Control Program – Copper Pipes Protectionhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/water/corrosion-control-program-copper-pipes-protection, Corrosion Control Program – Copper Pipes ProtectionCorrosion Control Program – Copper Pipes Protection

​​ Health authorities​

 

 

Vancouver Coastal Healthhttps://www.vch.ca/en, Vancouver Coastal HealthVancouver Coastal Health
Fraser Healthhttps://www.fraserhealth.ca/, Fraser HealthFraser Health
First Nations Health Authorityhttps://www.fnha.ca/, First Nations Health AuthorityFirst Nations Health Authority

​​ Health Canada​

 

 

Water Quality - Reports and Publications - Canada.cahttps://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality.html, Water Quality - Reports and Publications - Canada.caWater Quality - Reports and Publications - Canada.ca
Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/water-quality/guidelines-canadian-drinking-water-quality-summary-table.html, Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality

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