Oxford County expands Source Water Protection Program initiative

Oxford County is enhancing efforts to protect local drinking water with the installation of new Source Water Protection signs across the region. These signs are designed to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding municipal water sources and to remind residents and visitors that activities in these areas can directly impact the quality of the water.

Oxford County relies on groundwater for its drinking water. Wellhead protection areas (WHPAs) and contributing zones have been mapped and evaluated according to their vulnerability to contamination. Threats to drinking water, such as handling of fuels, fertilizers, pesticides, or agricultural source material, are regulated under the provincial Clean Water Act, 2006, and managed through local Source Protection Plans using tools like risk management, prohibition, and policy frameworks.

The new signage complements existing Source Protection strategies, including property owner outreach, risk assessments, and an incentive program for landowners within a WHPA. Residents within identified vulnerable zones may receive direct communication and, when required, site visits by Risk Management Inspectors and Officials to confirm risk levels and advise on best practices.

New Source Water Protection signs have been installed in the following locations:

• Near Otterville Wells 3 and 4 located along Highway 59 in the Township of South-West Oxford; 
• Near Woodstock Wells 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 11 and 12 located along Sweaburg Road in the Township of South-West Oxford;
• Near Tillsonburg Wells 4 and 5 located along Brownsville Road in the Township of South-West Oxford;
• Near Innerkip Wells 1 and 2 located along Oxford Road 4 in the Township of East Zorra-Tavistock; and
• Near Thamesford Well 1, 2 and 3 located along Allen Street in the Township of Zorra.

For more information about Source Water Protection in Oxford County and to view maps showing the locations of WHPAs, visit oxfordcounty.ca/sourcewaterprotection

Comment

Matthew Jauernig, Coordinator of Source Protection Program, Oxford County

"Source water protection is the first line of defence in maintaining a safe and sustainable drinking water supply. These signs not only mark areas where our water sources are most vulnerable, but they also serve as a reminder that every action we take on the land can have an impact below ground. By increasing awareness, we can work together to safeguard Oxford County’s drinking water for today and the future."