The Smiths Falls Drinking Water System is comprised of the water treatment plant and distribution system which together provide a supply of potable drinking water to approximately 10,000 people in Smiths Falls as well as to residents of the Atironto Subdivision in Montague.

Where does the water come from?

An intake draws water from the Rideau River and directs it into the water treatment plant.

How is the water treated and distributed?

Water is treated by a high rate dissolved air floatation clarifier (which floats particles to form a sludge which can be removed). This is followed by carbon and sand filtration where further particle removal takes place. Other treatment processes involved include UV disinfection, chlorination with chlorine gas, corrosion control, fluoridation, residue management and de- chlorination. The distribution system includes many kilometres of pipes and a water tower for storage. The Smiths Falls Drinking Water System operators must adhere to the strict requirements for the treatment, testing and distribution of drinking water specified in the Safe Drinking Water Act. The water is consistently in compliance with Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards.

How is the drinking water source protected?

Ontario’s Clean Water Act was created specifically to protect drinking water at the source rather than simply relying on water treatment to deliver safe, clean water. Because of work completed under the Clean Water Act, Smiths Falls now has a mapped Intake Protection Zone (IPZ) that is protected through policies in the Mississippi-Rideau Source Protection Plan.