WATER FROM LAKES AND RIVERS

Most of the water in the Wildlife Reserve is considered to be of exceptional quality. However, for your own safety, we recommend going to a well far from the bank and boiling the water vigorously for 1 minute, or filtering it. It’s important to know that water that seems good could contain certain micro-organisms that can cause gastro-intestinal upsets. The Giardia is one such parasite to be avoided in your drinking water. This is found in the stools of humans, beavers, muskrats and dogs. 

To preserve this quality of water, it is thus important that you use the privies. If there are none, find an area with absorbent ground located at least 100 FEET from the water. Dig a hole, then cover it after use. We recommend that groups dig one hole for everyone to use. Furthermore, you should never wash yourself, brush your teeth or wash your dishes directly in the water. Remain at least 100 FEET from any body of water, dig a hole and use biodegradable soap.

HEALTH CANADA'S RECOMMENDATION

“When practicing outdoor activities, it is essential to boil water for at least one minute before drinking it, or before using it to cook food or brush teeth. This procedure kills the Giardia and Cryptosporidium as well as all other dangerous micro-organisms liable to be present. Some types of water filters can eliminate these parasites.”

To learn more about Giardia, read the report "Water Talk: Giardia and Cryptosporidium in Drinking Water" on Health Canada website.