KAWARTHA LAKES-The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District (HKPR) Health Unit has issued a Drinking Water Advisory for anyone who draws their water from the Fenelon River and is warning residents to use a proper filtration and disinfection system before consuming the water.
The Fenelon Falls Sewage Treatment Plant is currently receiving higher than normal sewage flows due to the rain and raw sewage is bypassing into the river from the Colborne Street Sewage Pumping Station located at the bottom of the locks. The impact of the spill on water quality will be minimal given dilution due to significant rainfall, however residents drawing water downstream from the river should take precautions.
“Surface water can be contaminated by viruses, bacteria or parasites that can cause illness,” said Dharminder Kaler, Public Health Inspector, Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit. “It is important to treat the water before drinking or using the water to be sure it is safe.”
Homes and businesses connected to municipal water from the Fenelon Falls Drinking Water System are not affected and their water continues to be safe to drink.