High Sodium Levels in Buckhorn Lake Estates Drinking Water

By Peterborough Public Health: The Buckhorn Lake Estates drinking water system has higher than recommended sodium levels. The Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health is of the opinion that this is not a significant health or safety risk to the general user of the Buckhorn Lake Estates drinking water system.

Provincial water regulations require that sodium concentrations in municipal drinking water be tested every five years. If the concentration exceeds 20 milligrams per litre (mg/l) it must be reported to the Medical Officer of Health. In January 2023 the Buckhorn Lake Estates drinking water system was tested and had a result of 48.3 mg/l of sodium.

This level of sodium in Buckhorn Lake Estates is not a concern for healthy individuals. Residents with hypertension (high blood pressure), congestive heart failure, or renal impairment, or who are following a sodium restricted diet for other health reasons, should discuss whether to drink an alternate supply of water with their health care provider.

The amount of sodium consumed through drinking water needs to be put in perspective when compared to the amount of sodium in the food we eat. The amount of sodium required to meet the needs of most healthy adults is 1500 mg per day, but the average person consumes over 3000 mg per day. Drinking four cups of water per day from the Buckhorn Lake Estates water system would add approximately 48 mg of sodium to a person’s daily diet.

If you are using a water softener in your home, the sodium levels in your tap water could be higher than reported above. You may wish to have the sodium levels in your tap water checked if you are concerned about your sodium intake and are using a water softener. Tests for sodium can be performed by local water treatment companies and laboratories.

For general questions regarding the effect of sodium levels in drinking water on your diet, please call Peterborough Public Health at (705) 743-1000. Questions about the water system should be directed to the Municipality of Trent Lakes at (705) 738-3800 or the Ontario Clean Water Agency at 1-888-695-1663 (ask for central on call operator).

More information regarding sodium can be found at: Sodium and your health