Recent changes to Alberta’s drinking water regulations lowered the maximum acceptable fluoride level to 1.5 mg/L. Lakeview Estates’ groundwater is naturally higher than that limit, so the County must meet the new requirement by December 1, 2030.
Lakeside Estates - Fluoride Treatment Information
Lacombe County is working to better understand the drinking water concerns of residents in Lakeview Estates, where naturally occurring fluoride levels in the groundwater are higher than provincial health guidelines.
Recent changes to Alberta’s drinking water rules mean that all water systems—including ours—must meet the maximum acceptable fluoride level of 1.5 mg/L by December 2030.
Why this matters
What you need to know about Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in soil and groundwater. Small amounts help protect teeth. But when fluoride levels are too high, it can create health concerns—especially for children.
According to Alberta Health:
- Children under 8 who drink water with fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/L may develop dental fluorosis—white streaks or spots on their teeth. This is a cosmetic condition, but it is permanent.
- Long-term exposure to high fluoride levels may increase the risk of skeletal fluorosis, a condition that weakens bones and can cause joint stiffness.
- It is safe to use higher‑fluoride water for bathing, washing dishes, laundry, and handwashing. The concern is drinking and cooking water, since fluoride cannot be absorbed through the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the County talking about fluoride in our drinking water?
No. Small amounts of fluoride help protect teeth. But too much fluoride—above 1.5 mg/L—can cause health concerns, especially for children.
What health risks are associated with high fluoride levels?
Health authorities note two key concerns:
- Dental fluorosis (white spots or streaks on teeth) can occur in children under 8 who drink water with fluoride above 1.5 mg/L.
- Skeletal fluorosis, a long‑term condition that weakens bones and can cause joint pain, may occur with many years of high-fluoride exposure.
Is the water still safe to use for bathing, laundry, or washing dishes?
Yes. Fluoride cannot be absorbed through the skin, so it is safe to use the water for bathing, showering, laundry, and cleaning. The concern is drinking and cooking water, because that’s how fluoride enters the body.
What is the County required to do?
The County must:
- Submit a Fluoride Assessment by October 1, 2025, including lab samples from each well.
- Achieve compliance (1.5 mg/L) by December 1, 2030.
If compliance cannot be met naturally, the County must apply for treatment approval and implement a fluoride‑reduction solution.
What solutions are being considered?
Several options are under review:
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems installed in homes (Point of Use).
- Ion exchange treatment at the water plant (Point of Entry).
- Alternative water sources, such as a regional water line.
These options were explored in County and AEPA presentations.
What is a Point of Use Reverse Osmosis (RO) system?
A Point of Use RO system is a small water treatment unit installed under your kitchen sink with a dedicated tap. It removes fluoride and other contaminants by pushing water through a special membrane. The system produces clean drinking and cooking water while the rest of your household water stays the same.
How well does RO remove fluoride?
RO membranes typically remove 90–99% of fluoride, depending on the system. This makes RO the most effective short‑term option for reducing fluoride at the tap.
Why is the County considering RO systems as a short‑term solution?
Based on the County’s engineering review, RO systems are:
- Readily available
- Less disruptive to the water plant
- Lower in short‑term cost
- Effective at reducing fluoride immediately
These systems can be used until a long‑term, community‑wide solution is implemented.
Will the RO system filter all the water in my house?
No. RO units are single‑tap systems. They only treat the water used for drinking and cooking. Other household water (laundry, showers, hoses, etc.) is not treated — but that’s okay, because fluoride is only a concern when it’s swallowed.
Is there any maintenance required?
Yes. Like all water treatment systems, RO units need:
- Filter changes at regular intervals
- Occasional maintenance to keep the system working properly
If maintenance is ignored, the unit will not remove fluoride as intended.
Will I need to help with water testing?
Yes. Once approved by the province, residents would need to collect approximately four fluoride samples per year from their RO tap. The County will provide bottles and pick up samples from your doorstep.
Will County staff or contractors need access to my home?
Yes. To install, service, and ensure proper operation of the RO system, approved contractors may need reasonable access to the under‑sink area.
Are other long‑term solutions being explored?
Yes. The County has also looked at:
- Ion exchange treatment upgrades at the plant
- Regional water line feasibility
These options come with a much higher price tag, and require more time, design work, and provincial approvals.
Resident feedback helps the County:
- Understand community needs
- Plan installations and timelines
- Identify concerns and barriers
- Make informed decisions about long‑term water solutions
Your participation directly helps shape the path forward.
Contact Us
Mailing Address:
Lacombe County Office
RR 3
Lacombe AB T4L 2N3
Physical Location:
40403 Range Road 27-4
Contact Us
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Email: info@lacombecounty.com
Phone: 403-782-6601
Fax: 403-782-3820
Stay informed!
Subscribe to receive news updates or follow us on social media to stay up to date on the County's activities, events, and operations.
