ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Many isolated communities in northeastern Quebec, commonly referred to as the Côte-Nord (North Shore) region, face serious drinking water supply problems. Although water is abundant in this region, it is of such poor quality that filtration facilities will be required to ensure potable water comply with the recently adopted provincial regulation. The cost of building and operating these units is a major hurdle, considering the limited financial resources of the local economy. This study examines alternative methods for supplying drinking water to the region, such as transporting water from neighbouring treatment sites. A cost analysis comparison of transportation versus technological solutions (local treatment facilities) is presented in this article. The analysis involves seven communities, with populations ranging from 22 to 479. Other important issues related to operation, staff availability, maintenance and affordability of these solutions are also discussed.
