Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update

Last Updated: June 4, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.

Need Help?

Residents needing assistance or additional information are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email publicworks@invernesscounty.ca.

Background

The Whycocomagh Water System is supplied by two wells installed in the 1970s, approximately 300 feet underground. These wells provide water service to approximately 160 homes and businesses.

On May 22, the water became too cloudy and discoloured (known as high turbidity) and exceeded provincial water quality standards. As a precaution, a boil water advisory was issued.

The boil water advisory remains in effect and is expected to continue until approximately June 19.

Cause of the Advisory

The Whycocomagh Water System is supplied by two wells (Production Well 1 and Production Well 2) that were installed in the 1970s and are approximately 300 feet deep.

A camera inspection conducted earlier this week revealed cracks and holes in the casing of Production Well 2, approximately 160 feet below ground.

As a result, silt and sediment are entering the well and causing turbidity (cloudiness).

The Solution

Short-term: The short-term solution involves shutting down Production Well 2 and installing an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system at the Whycocomagh Water Treatment Plant to treat water from Production Well 1 and ensure it is safe for consumption. In addition, a consultant will investigate the water system for leaks requiring repair.

Long-term: A senior hydrologist is currently identifying a suitable location for two new water supply wells near the existing wells. Once a site is selected, the new wells will be drilled.

Expected Timeline

Production Well 2 has been isolated from the system.

Installation of the UV disinfection system may take approximately two weeks, pending contractor availability. Once the system is installed and water testing confirms compliance with environmental regulations, the boil water advisory will be lifted.

It is too early to predict a timeline for the long-term solution.

What Residents Should Do

While the boil water advisory remains in effect:

Boil all tap water for at least one full minute before:
- Drinking
- Making ice
- Brushing teeth
- Washing dishes
- Preparing food and beverages
Store boiled water in clean, covered containers.
Water used for bathing or laundry does not need to be boiled, but young children should be supervised to avoid swallowing water.

The Municipality will notify residents as soon as the advisory is lifted.

Resident Support Programs

To support affected residents, the Municipality will continue to offer two programs:

Drinking Water Pick-Up Program
Water Voucher Program

Drinking Water Pick-Up Program

The Municipality is partnering with the Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department to help ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.

Details for Next Water Pick-Up

Date: Friday, June 5
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9591 Trans-Canada Highway, Whycocomagh
Residents may collect two four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of six jugs per household:

One-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
Two-person household: four jugs (16 litres)
Three or more people: six jugs (24 litres)

Water Voucher Program

The Municipality is also partnering with the Whycocomagh Co-op to provide bottled water vouchers.

During the Friday, June 5 water pick-up, residents may collect a voucher redeemable at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh).

The voucher program provides one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Vouchers may only be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op location.

Additional Information

Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email publicworks@invernesscounty.ca.
Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and the Municipality’s Facebook page.
Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.