Aquifer in decline due to…

Aquifer in decline due to too many water taking permits and lack of adequate emergency buffer.

ERO number026-0124
Ministry reference number100041082

Waterloo region depends on ground water for at least 80% of the water it distributes to homes, hospitals, businesses, industry, etc.

Currently the aquifer, based on reports to Region of Waterloo Council, is not able to sustain the necessary emergency buffer and the currently permitted water taking. Because the aquifer is part of the Grand River Watershed system, this inadequacy needs a comprehensive review prior to issuing new water taking permits.

Approving new water-taking permits before the underlying issues are resolved can be interpreted as being poor stewardship and irresponsible.

Though gravel washing may recirculate 95% more or less of the water pumped out of the aquifer, what length of time is required for that water to reenter and be available in the aquifer? Licensee self-monitoring and reporting in this time of locally reduced aquifer levels may not be adequate, thus requiring provincial inspectors onsite several times over the term of a permit.

What is the history of the regeneration of the aquifer supplying this propose license?

Has the water table receded or demonstrated adequate replenishing in the area designated for this permit over the past decade?

Until the province can demonstrate answers to the above questions with third party verifiable reports, this proposed water-taking permit should be:

1. at minimum, volume reduced, until the region is satisfied that aquifer has adequate supply and buffer for the region's existing water taking permits,
or
2. at maximum, denied.