The town of Virden is currently facing a water advisory due to a recent switch back to an older water source that was found to have elevated levels of arsenic, surpassing drinking water standards. The town, located in southwestern Manitoba with a population of around 3,000, had to seek a new water supply after the aquifer it had been using since 2021 reached critically low levels.
As per an advisory released on October 19 on the town’s official website, two newly activated wells are part of an aquifer where previous tests and historical data showed higher arsenic levels than the Canadian Drinking Water Guideline. Residents, including Kathy Heaman, are concerned about the town’s water situation and are seeking clarity and solutions to ensure access to safe drinking water. Reports indicate residents are resorting to purchasing bottled water and cutting back on water usage.
Emergency measures have been in place since October 10 due to significantly low water levels in the aquifer, prompting the activation of the new wells despite previous high arsenic levels detected during testing. While treatment processes like reverse osmosis and greensand filtration are now in operation, the advisory issued on October 19 remains in effect, cautioning residents about the potential health risks associated with arsenic exposure in drinking water over time.
Provincial authorities, including the Manitoba Water Services Board, are collaborating with the town to explore alternative water sources. Presently, an existing well is temporarily supplying water while a replacement well is being drilled. The Environment and Climate Change Ministry and Manitoba Health are overseeing the testing and regulatory aspects of the water supply.
Virden Mayor Tina Williams affirmed the town’s cooperation with the Manitoba Water Services Board on water-related projects. Notably, the town lacks personnel with expertise in aquifers and groundwater, raising concerns about the sustainability of the new water source. Residents like Frances Lansing and Jennifer Ritchie have resorted to bottled water due to worries about water contamination and health risks, echoing the sentiment that the water crisis could have been prevented with better planning and conservation efforts.
John Hipwell, a resident, highlighted concerns about the town’s water management practices, citing issues with water levels and recharge rates in the aquifer post-2021. He emphasized the need for enhanced water conservation measures and criticized the town’s decision to tap into the aquifer despite potential risks. Hipwell called for a more proactive approach to water quality and conservation efforts to prevent future water crises.
The town is urged to prioritize water quality and conservation initiatives to safeguard the community’s health and well-being. Ongoing efforts are underway to address the water advisory and ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.