My tap water

Ottawa River

Ottawa Drinking Water System

there are no threats

There are threats to species that live in the water

habitat threats including the introduction of dams, urban development, and pollution from residential and industrial sources have resulted in population declines for several species

Possible places my water is cleaned by

Lemieux Island Water Purification Plant

Britannia Water Purification Plant

Ottawa's cleaning steps to water

First stage of cleaning

Intake

Ottawa River water enters the treatment plant through a large intake pipe with a screen that removes objects such as weeds or fish.

Second stage of cleaning

Coagulation & Flocculation

Small impurities such as organic matter, algae, and bacteria are captured.

Third stage of cleaning

Sedimentation

Heavy particles sink to the bottom of the settling tank and clear water is collected from the top. Approximately 95% of the impurities are removed at this stage.

Fourth stage of cleaning

Filtration

Water then flows through several filters removing 99.99% of fine particles.

Fifth stage of cleaning

Primary Disinfection

Chlorine is added to get rid of any remaining microorganisms.

Sixth stage of cleaning

pH Correction

The water’s pH is adjusted to protect water pipes and household plumbing from corrosion.

Seventh stage of cleaning

Secondary Disinfection

Chloramine (a mild disinfectant) is added to keep the water safe as it travels throughout the distribution network.

Eighth stage cleaning

Fluoridation

Fluoride is added to prevent dental cavities.