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Ambient water quality guidelines

Last updated on February 11, 2025

Ambient water quality guidelines are benchmarks for fresh and marine water quality which are used to assess and manage the health and sustainability of B.C.’s aquatic resources. Water quality guidelines may be established for the protection of aquatic life, wildlife, agriculture, drinking water sources and recreation.

Approved guidelines

Current approved ambient water quality guidelines serve as environmental benchmarks for safe levels of specific water quality parameters across B.C.

Working guidelines

Working Water Quality Guidelines (PDF, 1.1MB) provide benchmarks for those parameters not yet fully assessed and formally approved in B.C. 

Draft guidelines

Draft ambient water quality guidelines are in development and open for public review.

These documents provide information on water quality methods, policy & procedures, aquatic plants & invertebrates, and water quality brochures.

Information on drinking water quality in B.C. including drinking water protection and concerns about drinking water systems.

Taking proper care of your well, including regularly testing the water quality, can help ensure that you have a safe and sustainable water supply.