PFAS in Drinking Water
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 12/12/2022 to
Thoughts on Water
"PFAS are not natural water contaminants. They are human made."
With origins dating back to the 1940’s, this group of chemicals has been used in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products.
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The Rural Water Paradigm
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 8/13/2022 to
Thoughts on Water
"In Canada, individuals who are not supplied with a municipal water source are left to decide what quality of water is acceptable for their residences."
The standard bacteriological test, while important, is not sufficient in indicating all contaminants in a water source.
Water in Rural Subdivisions
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 8/23/2021 to
Thoughts on Water
"Areas with >40 septic systems per square mile are areas at high risk of groundwater contamination"
Rural communities across the country consist of residences in close proximity to each other, commonly known as a “hamlet”. These “hamlet’s” often do not have municipal water and sewer services.
Nitrates in Drinking Water
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 6/20/2021 to
Thoughts on Water
"Nitrate is an invisible, colourless & tasteless water contaminant that goes undetected unless specifically sampled for."
Nitrates are compounds that occur naturally within the earth but are found in elevated levels in agricultural communities and rural towns. While they do not present any taste or odor, drinking elevated levels of nitrates can cause illness in both humans and in livestock.
What is Hiding in Your Water?
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 6/8/2020 to
Thoughts on Water
"The reality is that it is not possible to know all contaminants in a water source at any given time."
Looking at a glass of water, you may assume it’s safe, pure and free from harmful substances. However, new studies and publications are identifying water contamination in rural and urban water supplies at an alarming rate. These findings have been found throughout Canada as more study and testing is conducted.
Consider contaminants which have been identified in water sources across the country.
Water Education - Pitcher Filters
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 12/16/2019 to
Thoughts on Water
"It is a common assumption that the pitcher filter is a “catch all drinking water system which removes everything from water"
Before you use any filtration system, ensure that it is applicable for the water source you are putting into the reservoir. Many people use these devices on water that it was never designated for and are then disappointed in the results or are left with a sense of water quality that is generally incorrect.
As more contaminants are identified, the quality of drinking water should be a priority for every individual.
Emerging Drinking Water Risks
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 10/25/2019 to
Water Testing & Sampling
"There are far too many contaminants to effectively regulate, test and provide 100% safe drinking water from every tap."
As there is an increase in conducted research, new findings are becoming apparent regarding the potential for new or emerging contaminants in water posing risk to human health. No one really knows what actually lies in our drinking water, and no single test exists to test for every possible contaminant.
It is impossible to know exactly what is in a water source at any given time.
Country Water Education
Posted by Jeff Wahl on 7/1/2019 to
Thoughts on Water
"Water is a “universal solvent” meaning it picks up just about anything it comes into contact with."
In the country, you are responsible for your own water.