Spring Water

It is popular belief that spring water is pure, natural, better tasting, and free of contaminants compared to local municipal water supplies or private wells. However, in most cases this is not true. Groundwater may be relatively pristine, but as it passes through soil, sand, and gravel on its way to the surface runoff and other natural and man-made sources.

Springs may be located near sources of surface water or groundwater contamination such as storage tanks, septic systems, hazardous waste sites, or landfills. Water in a natural spring may also become contaminated from man-made sources such as gasoline, oil, road salts, or other chemicals. 

Natural or roadside springs are not routinely tested or monitored for chemicals and bacteria. Also, they are generally not adequately constructed to protect against surface contaminants and therefore are not considered to be reliable and safe water source.

Drinking water obtained from a municipal water system or a properly constructed, maintained and monitored private well are considered safer options than natural or roadside springs. Using a natural or roadside spring as a source of drinking water is not a safe option. For more information, contact the Timiskaming Health Unit.

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