Water Supply &Treatment
Ground Water Supply
Barrie has 14 wells, 3 in ground reservoirs, 3 water towers and 5 booster stations feeding 5 major pressure zones throughout the City. The system is organized into a number of mini pressure zones that are controlled by pressure regulating valves. Water is supplied from wells drilled into a deep aquifer that is not under the direct influence of surface water.
In 2010, a new water source will be added as the Surface Water Treatment Plant will begin pumping water from Kempenfelt Bay to the drinking water system.
Annual Average Daily Flows
The 2009 average day flow was 39,482 m 3, with the maximum day flow was 56,035 m ³ in June. Total annual production was 14,410,830 m 3.
Surface Water Supply
Barrie recognizes it must be capable of providing an adequate supply of safe drinking water for the growth envisioned by its approved Official Plan. The existing water supply system has met the demands to date but is beginning to reach limitations with respect to meeting long-term demands.
The most appropriate approach to meeting the drinking water supply requirements for the approved City growth is a combination of water conservation/efficient initiatives, continued wise use of the existing groundwater supply system and the initiation of a new surface water source to augment supply requirements.
This surface water treatment plant project is a key element in ensuring the availability of safe drinking water over the long-term.
