News | April 10, 2026
Public Notice: La Crete Water Quality
Mackenzie County was made aware of concerns with the water quality in La Crete after a complaint was submitted to Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (EPA).
EPA investigated our records and water testing results. The outcome of the investigation found that the County is in compliance with regulations, see below;
“Upon review of the information I was able to confirm compliance with chlorine being within limits entering and within the distribution system. I was also able to confirm compliance with no maximum acceptable concentration limit exceedances in relation to the parameters in the Schedule 4 winter (2025, 2026) and summer (2025) monitoring events. The file regarding the public complaint of high chlorine and unsafe water (in relation to cancer concerns) is being closed.”
We are required to meet Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality and the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act. Our operators complete regular monitoring and testing and if any parameter would be exceeded, Mackenzie County would be required, by law, to report to Alberta Environment and the public would be notified immediately.
Mackenzie County must meet minimum chlorine residuals as set out by the regulations and approvals throughout our distribution system (pipelines). Additionally, there is a calculated contact time that this chlorine must have with the treated water to meet requirements. Simply put, this means that the higher the water consumption demands become (less time water is in contact with chlorine in our storage reservoir) the more chlorine is required in the water to ensure that all harmful bacteria are killed and the minimum residual is met. Allowing water to sit will deplete the chlorine over time or the use of a carbon filter can also reduce/remove the taste and odours like chlorine. Carbon filters can be installed in home or simply using a Brita Water Filtration System or a similar type filtration system will address this concern.
For more information, contact:
Utilities Department at 780.928.3983
Email: utilities@mackenziecounty.com