DWSP MONITORING NETWORK

Drinking water systems are invited to join the DWSP on a voluntary basis and are selected depending on factors such as:

• Geographical location
• Population served           
• Surrounding land uses
• Source water type (e.g. surface water vs. groundwater; lakes vs. rivers)
• Type of treatment. 

The DWSP monitoring network consists of municipal systems that are representative of these situations. From 22 systems in 1986, the monitoring network now consists of more than 100 systems spread across most of Ontario. The monitoring network today represents the approximately 80 per cent of Ontario’s population that is served by municipal drinking water systems. A map of the DWSP monitoring network shows the monitoring network today and some of the changes it has undergone over time.

Special surveys are conducted to assist with developing laboratory methods or to investigate emerging issues, such as algal toxins, pharmaceuticals and other new contaminants in drinking water.