Ryan asks council to reject new permit to take water for bottling
White Wolf has applied to take up to 1.1 million litres of water per day from Hillsburgh well
ERIN – Councillor Bridget Ryan has put forth a motion asking council to oppose a permit to take water for a bottling operation in Hillsburgh.
The 10-year permit would allow White Wolf Property Management to take up to 1.1 million litres of water per day from the former Nestle/Blue Triton well.
“The Town of Erin recognizes the importance of protecting groundwater resources to support the long-term needs of existing residents, businesses, agriculture and future growth,” states Ryan’s motion.
“Council has previously demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability through Resolution #20-024 respecting the implementation of a single-use plastics reduction program, including measures to reduce reliance on single-use plastics and promote refillable water containers.”
The motion asks that staff notify the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks that the Town of Erin is an “unwilling host” and does not support the permit to take water.
The motion also asked staff to provide an analysis and recommendations for any new or renewal applications for water-taking permits or permits involving water bottling operations.
In addition, Ryan’s motion asks the Ontario government to impose a moratorium on new and renewal permits for bottled water operations.
