‘Part of establishing a new system’ as new well drilled

LAURIE WEIR

DELTA — A boil water advisory remains in effect for the Delta Agricultural Society’s small drinking water system after “adverse observations” were reported during an inspection last month.

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit issued the advisory on July 25, 2025, for the year-round system at 110 Mill Creek Dr. The notice cites “adverse observations – other,” a classification that can include equipment issues, disinfection problems or other risks to water safety.

Under Ontario’s drinking water regulations, small systems must issue a boil water advisory if an inspection or test shows the water may be unsafe to consume. During the advisory, residents and visitors are advised to bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth.

William Morris, a member of the Delta Agricultural Society board of directors, said the advisory was the result of a collapsed well during the second day of the annual four-day Delta Fair.

“Services at the fair were interrupted for approximately 3.5 hours until potable water could be delivered by tanker trailer,” Morris said. “Drinking water was provided and fair operations continued as usual as of 5 p.m. on the Thursday.”

The health unit inspected the temporary water system and issued the boil water advisory as a precaution.

“But we did not have any issues given that the water was chlorinated and was dispensed through the fair’s existing UV system,” Morris said.

A new well was drilled on Aug. 4, with the pump system installed the same day.

The advisory will remain in place until water samples from the new system are sent to a lab and cleared by the health unit.

“This is all part of establishing the new system,” Morris said.

The Delta Agricultural Society operates the grounds year-round, hosting community events including the annual Delta Fair.