Water Treatment Plant Meets Quality Standards Despite Temporary Discolouration Reports
PRINCE ALBERT, Saskatchewan — The City of Prince Albert says it continues to closely monitor water quality conditions following reports of temporary water discolouration in several areas of the city, with officials confirming that treated drinking water remains safe and compliant with provincial standards.
The update follows an earlier notice issued on June 30 regarding changes in the North Saskatchewan River that have affected the city’s water treatment process. According to municipal officials, elevated levels of naturally occurring organic matter in the river continue to influence water treatment operations, resulting in some residents experiencing discoloured tap water.
City officials said current river conditions remain largely unchanged from the previous week, and there have been no significant developments to report since the initial advisory.
“At this time, there is no major update to report. River water quality remains similar to last week, and the Water Treatment Plant continues to operate within established parameters. Water leaving the plant continues to meet or exceed all water quality requirements set by the Water Security Agency.”
The City emphasized that while some residents may notice changes in the appearance of their water, the treatment facility continues to produce water that meets regulatory requirements. The Water Security Agency sets and oversees drinking water quality standards across Saskatchewan.
Residents Asked to Report Discoloured Water
City Collecting Data to Identify Affected Areas
Municipal officials are encouraging residents who experience discoloured water to notify the City so Public Works staff can better understand the scope and distribution of the issue.
The City said reports from residents play an important role in helping staff identify patterns, map affected neighbourhoods and determine whether localized responses may be required.
Residents can report concerns through the City’s Solutions Hub by calling 306-953-4884 or by submitting a report through the City’s online Report a Concern portal. When filing an online report, residents are asked to select the keyword “WATER – General Inquiry” to ensure the concern is routed appropriately.
City officials noted that gathering this information allows Public Works personnel to investigate potential causes and evaluate the most effective response measures for specific locations throughout Prince Albert.
River Conditions Continue to Influence Water Treatment Operations
Natural Organic Matter Remains Elevated in North Saskatchewan River
The water discolouration issue stems from changing conditions in the North Saskatchewan River, the primary source of Prince Albert’s municipal water supply.
Higher concentrations of naturally occurring organic matter have entered the treatment system in recent weeks. While such changes can affect the appearance of water in some areas, officials say the Water Treatment Plant has continued adjusting treatment processes as necessary to manage evolving river conditions.
Water treatment operators are monitoring source water quality on an ongoing basis and making operational adjustments to maintain drinking water standards. The City said these efforts are aimed at ensuring residents continue receiving high-quality treated water despite the challenges presented by current river conditions.
Municipal officials added that maintaining water quality remains a priority and that treatment operations continue to function within established operational parameters.
City Commits to Ongoing Monitoring and Future Updates
The City of Prince Albert said it will continue monitoring river conditions closely and modifying treatment processes when required.
Officials indicated that updates will be provided if conditions change or if new information becomes available. In the meantime, residents experiencing water discolouration are encouraged to continue reporting concerns to help support ongoing monitoring and response efforts.
While temporary discolouration may remain visible in some areas, the City reiterated that treated water leaving the Water Treatment Plant continues to satisfy all applicable water quality requirements established by Saskatchewan’s Water Security Agency.