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EVENFLOW

  • Writer: Staff
    Staff
  • Apr 28
  • 3 min read

Updated: May 8

NIBI Banner - EVENFLOW - A BLOG ABOUT WATER
EVEN FLOW - A BLOG ABOUT WATER is a feature blog series focusing on highlighting the global landscape of water scarcity, security and solutions.

BY NIBI STAFF | APRIL 28, 2025

THE STATE OF CLEAN WATER IN OUR PROVINCES


Canada, often celebrated for its abundant freshwater resources, has faced significant challenges with water access in certain communities, particularly Indigenous ones.


The history of water bans in Canada highlights a troubling disparity, where many First Nations communities have endured long-term "boil water advisories" due to inadequate infrastructure, pollution, or mismanagement.


A striking example is the Neskantaga First Nation in Ontario, which has lived under a boil water advisory for over 25 years, the longest in Canadian history. Similarly, Shoal Lake 40 First Nation endured nearly 24 years without clean water until a water treatment plant was completed in 2021.


These cases underscore a persistent issue in a country otherwise rich in natural water resources, bringing attention to the urgent need for equitable water access and solutions for all Canadians.


"As of today, there are over 30 Indigenous communities in Canada under long-term boil water advisories."

These advisories highlight the ongoing water access crisis, particularly in First Nations communities.


Example of fresh clean water in reusable bottles

A LONG WAY TO GO...


While the solution to some problems may seem easy, many of them are temporary in nature and require greater care for the ecosystems these communities reside within. Delivering clean, fresh water solutions and avoiding water boil advisories and water consumption bans is a goal for humanity, but one we cannot achieve without taking the baby steps needed, including in our own backyards, to do it right.



Below is a list of notable communities that have faced or continue to face long-term boil water advisories.


Please note that the situation is dynamic, and advisories can be lifted or added as infrastructure projects progress.


Communities Under Long-Term Boil Water Advisories


  1. Neskantaga First Nation (Ontario)

    • Longest-running advisory in Canada (over 25 years)

  2. Shoal Lake 40 First Nation (Ontario/Manitoba border)

    • Recently resolved after nearly 24 years without clean water

  3. Attawapiskat First Nation (Ontario)

    • Faced multiple advisories due to contamination and infrastructure issues

  4. Grassy Narrows First Nation (Ontario)

    • Struggles with mercury contamination in addition to water quality issues

  5. Tataskweyak Cree Nation (Manitoba)

    • Reports of discolored and undrinkable water

  6. Eabametoong First Nation (Ontario)

    • Ongoing challenges with water treatment facilities

  7. Kashechewan First Nation (Ontario)

    • Recurring boil water advisories and flooding issues

  8. Garden Hill First Nation (Manitoba)

    • Ongoing struggles with access to potable water

  9. Fond du Lac Denesuline First Nation (Saskatchewan)

    • Long-term advisories due to outdated water systems

  10. Pikangikum First Nation (Ontario)

    • Over 80% of homes lack indoor plumbing, leading to unsafe water reliance

  11. Bearskin Lake First Nation (Ontario)

    • Persistent boil water advisories due to infrastructure problems

  12. Wapekeka First Nation (Ontario)

    • Long-term advisories caused by water treatment system failures

  13. Shoal River Indian Reserve (Manitoba)

    • Struggles with consistent water quality

  14. Nazko First Nation (British Columbia)

    • Ongoing advisories due to water treatment challenges

  15. Sandy Lake First Nation (Ontario)

    • Facing advisories related to water contamination

  16. North Spirit Lake First Nation (Ontario)

    • Long-term issues with water safety and accessibility

  17. Slate Falls Nation (Ontario)

    • Multiple advisories due to inadequate water systems

  18. Curve Lake First Nation (Ontario)

    • Recent advisories due to aging infrastructure

  19. Shoal Lake 39 First Nation (Ontario)

    • Struggles with water infrastructure

  20. Martens Falls First Nation (Ontario)

    • Ongoing advisory due to inadequate water treatment



Since 2015, the Canadian government has lifted over 130 long-term boil water advisories, but many communities continue to face challenges due to aging infrastructure and funding gaps.


The Canadian government has committed to lifting all long-term boil water advisories, but progress has been slow due to logistical and financial hurdles.


Despite these steps forward, there is still plenty of work to be done. The majority of these advisories are due to outdated or failing water treatment infrastructure, contamination, or lack of funding for upgrades, plus many of these communities are remote, making it difficult to build and maintain reliable water systems.


Beyond the current state of water in Canada, lies a future that requires more innovation as we drive towards providing sustainable and renewable solutions for everyone.


SHARE YOUR VOICE


Do you live in a community suffering from a "water-boil advisory" or other water restrictions?


Have an opinion about the state of water in your province?


Share your opinion in the comments along with your email and you may be featured in an upcoming story in our EVENFLOW blog series.



 
 
 

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