National Assessment of Water and Wastewater Systems in First Nation Communities (2009–2010)

In response to a report from the Senate Standing Committee on Aboriginal Peoples, entitled Safe Drinking Water for First Nations, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and Health Canada announced the $330 million two-year First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan (FNWWAP) in April 2008.

The plan details new measures to improve drinking water on reserve by:

• conducting a national assessment of water and wastewater systems;
  
  
• nearly doubling the number of circuit rider trainer positions in the Circuit Rider Training Program;
  
  
• clarifying standards by revising the existing drinking water protocol; and
  
  
• developing additional protocols for wastewater systems and small systems.

The Government of Canada is currently undertaking the national assessment of water and wastewater systems in First Nation communities. The assessment began in March 2009 and will continue through until November 2010.

Chief and Councils were informed of the project in August 2009 and invited to participate in the assessment. As a result of a national tendering process, Neegan Burnside Limited will visit 607 First Nation communities in ten provinces and two territories across Canada.

Following on-site inspections, engineers will produce a report for each community that will identify work required to remedy deficiencies and propose options to meet future water and wastewater servicing needs. Once finalized, the reports will be available to each community and to the general public.

Additional Information

• Letter from Minister Strahl to Chiefs of communities invited to participate in the National Assessment
  
  
• Letter from Gail Mitchell, Director General Community Infrastructure Branch - Information on National Assessment
  
  • Letter from Gail Mitchell - Follow Up
  • Data Release Authorization Form
    
    
• National Assessment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)