The RM of St. Clements is conducting a voluntary well inventory in the East Selkirk area as part of the RM’s planned East Selkirk Water Supply Upgrades and upcoming aquifer testing program.

The RM is considering additional water supply wells to improve the capacity and reliability of the East Selkirk public water supply. Before aquifer testing begins, the RM is documenting existing wells and groundwater users within approximately one mile of the proposed testing area.

This information will help establish baseline conditions before testing takes place and assist engineers in identifying and assessing any potential impacts the aquifer testing could have on existing groundwater users.

What is the well inventory?

The inventory is being conducted by Friesen Drillers, who have been retained by the RM for this purpose. Participation in the inventory is voluntary.

The information requested relates to existing wells, including:

• Age of the well
• Well driller
• Connection and pump type
• Water use
• Any issues experienced with the well

In some cases, a site visit may be requested.

The RM is not taking ownership of private wells through this inventory. The purpose of the inventory is also not to require residents to connect to municipal water or to initiate changes to private wells.

What about Bill 21?

Manitoba’s Bill 21, The Drinking Water Safety Amendment Act, has generated questions and discussion regarding drinking water systems. Bill 21 is provincial legislation, and questions about how the legislation may affect water systems should be directed to the Province of Manitoba.

The East Selkirk well inventory is being undertaken specifically in connection with the RM’s aquifer testing and East Selkirk water supply infrastructure project.

Residents with questions about the well inventory or the East Selkirk water supply project are welcome to contact the RM at 204-482-3300 or info@rmofstclements.ca.