Surface Water (Rivers and Lakes)

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Surface water is water found on the Earth’s surface, such as rivers, lakes, and streams. In the Thames Sydenham Region, surface water sources like the Lake Erie and Lake Huron provide drinking water for many communities.

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Because surface water is open and exposed, it can be affected more quickly by what happens on the land around it. Rain and snowmelt can carry things like soil, road salt, fertilizers, fuel, and other contaminants into nearby water bodies.

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Protecting surface water means managing activities upstream and near these sources so drinking water remains safe, not just today, but for future generations.​​

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Groundwater

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Groundwater is water found underground in soil and rock layers called aquifers. Many homes and businesses in the Thames-Sydenham region rely on groundwater for drinking water through private wells, and it also supplies water to some municipal systems.

 

Because groundwater moves slowly underground, contamination can take a long time to show up, and once it does, it can be very difficult and costly to clean up. Activities on the land surface, such as septic system leaks, fuel storage, or the use of fertilizers and chemicals, can affect groundwater if not properly managed.

 

Protecting groundwater focuses on preventing contaminants from entering the ground in the first place, helping ensure safe, reliable drinking water for current and future well users.