Introduction

From the air, or on a map, Canada is undoubtedly a country blessed with copious amounts of fresh water, as a massive network of lakes and rivers link the country from coast to coast to coast. While Canada is home to only about .5 per cent of the world’s population, her rivers discharge about seven per cent of the world’s freshwater supply on an average annual basis. The Great Lakes alone, which Canada shares with the U.S., comprise the largest surface area of freshwater found in any one place on Earth.

Underground, Canada stores even more water than is visible on its surface. Emerging from the ground often as natural springs, groundwater is connected with lakes and rivers. Throughout the country, groundwater is relied upon to supply a substantial portion of municipal, agricultural and others uses.