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Lack of funding for piped water on First Nations in Sask. means some on reserves can’t drink from their taps

Lack of funding for piped water on First Nations in Sask. means some on reserves can’t drink from their taps

Rebecca Zagozewski, executive director with the Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association, says cisterns can pose health risks to those who rely on them. She says the structures can have cracked lids, which allows all sorts of debris to get into them — including rats, mice, drowned puppies and garbage — and they’re often not cleaned properly. On top of that, she says the Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association is concerned that there is no certification program for water truck drivers. The group wants to create such a program where drivers would have to be trained in how to keep the water safe and be held accountable if things go wrong. “Because right now there’s no accountability,” she says.

Lead water filters, jugs, returned by some Thunder Bay, Ont., homeowners

Lead water filters, jugs, returned by some Thunder Bay, Ont., homeowners

A plan to distribute free water jugs and filters to properties with lead pipes or connections has hit a blockage. Some of the property owners are returning the jugs and filters to stores for a refund. Once the jug and filter is distributed, it's up to the water consumer to decide if they want to use it, said Michelle Warywoda, the director of Thunder Bay's environment division.