by Richard Pasquill, Agricultural Water Specialist, The Manitoba Water Services Board, Brandon, Manitoba
Planning a new or an extension to a water system? Who do you contact for the best information? Should it be the local plumber, contractor or water conditioning salesman?
While all these people provide good and meaningful information, the information they provide may not be the best for your specific situation. As with most people who work with water systems in specific locations across the prairies, they develop techniques over time that work in 90% of the cases. As the old saying goes "If it works, don't change it." In many cases, however, new ideas have proven even more successful but may not have been tried for fear of failure. For this reason, it is best to gather information from a number of sources when planning a water system or addition.
As mentioned, the local people dealing in the water field can provide a wealth of knowledge but it is always important to check with the people from the technical side before starting. Technicians working for provincial governments and PFRA routinely deal with various water problems right across the country. They import and exchange ideas within their government networks and in addition, work closely with private companies, contractors and technicians to keep abreast of new technology.
Isn't it to your advantage to obtain the best water system for the dollars you spend?
Contact your local PFRA office or provincial water technologist while you're in the planning stages, before construction starts. You will not only receive the best technical information but bonafide farmers may also be eligible for financial assistance. If you're not sure who to contact or where the local technicians are located, contact any PFRA, Provincial Agriculture, Water Corporation or Water Board office for information.
They will direct you to the right people.