Fresh water is a valuable and limited resource. Although it may seem abundant within the territory of the Rivière du Nord watershed, its availability varies according to the seasons, the weather, and the pressure exerted by usage.

In recent years, the increase in residential, municipal, agricultural, and industrial needs has highlighted a growing issue: the overconsumption of water resources.

Overconsumption of water resources

In the Rivière du Nord Integrated Water Management Zone (ZGIE), demand for drinking water has steadily increased, particularly in rapidly growing residential areas. Watering, filling pools, washing vehicles, and agricultural irrigation worsen consumption spikes, especially in the summer.

In some municipalities, withdrawals temporarily exceed the groundwater recharge capacity or the production capacity of water distribution networks. This situation can lead to pressure drops, usage restrictions, and reduced groundwater levels in the longer term.

Did you know?

The average daily water consumption in Quebec in 2018 was more than 536 liters of potable water per person, exceeding the Canadian average by 20%.

Location within the territory

Overconsumption of water resources is not extensively documented within our ZGIE, but this does not mean that it is non-existent.

High‑density residential areas, areas with water losses in the water supply network, and lowland areas where agricultural and industrial withdrawals are concentrated are among the most at risk. This situation can be explained in particular by:

  • a perception of abundance related to the significant presence of water in the region
  • a lack of accurate data on availability and the volumes actually withdrawn
  • growing residential and economic development
  • the low cost and high accessibility of the resource
  • a lack of awareness regarding responsible consumption

Consult the interactive portrait and browse through the different layers of the territory usage tabs.

Main causes

Overconsumption of water results from a combination of factors:

  • Excessive watering of lawns and gardens
  • Leaks in water distribution networks and domestic appliances
  • Non-optimal use of household appliances (toilets, dishwashers, showers)

  • Significant water withdrawals for irrigation and production processes
  • Lack of recovery or water reuse systems

  • Increase in the number of residences and buildings connected to drinking water networks

Climate change

Climate change could result in longer periods of drought and a decrease in groundwater levels, reducing the amount of water available in the region.

This situation could also increase pressure on the resource, especially in recreational tourism sectors where water demand is significant, such as for artificial snow production, golf course maintenance, or water park operation during the summer.

Consequences 

Environmental

  • Reduced water quality
  • Impacts on biodiversity
  • Excessive pressure on the resource

Social

  • Conflicts over water use in terms of withdrawal amounts (see Usage Conflicts sheet)
  • Contaminants remaining in domestic drinking water can result in health consequences
  • Overconsumption of water results in excessive withdrawals from watercourses and groundwater, which also have impacts

Economic

  • High drinking water treatment and maintenance costs
  • Saturation of individual septic systems
  • Increase in wastewater infrastructure costs

Prioritized issues

The overconsumption of water resources is among the six priority issues identified in the 2024-2034 Water Master Plan. For more information, consult the diagnostic sheets. These present the portrait and diagnosis of the issues related to water resources in our territory.

Flooding in at-risk areas

Shoreline erosion

Degradation and/or destruction of wetlands and aquatic environments

Competing water uses

Poor water quality

Overconsumption of water resources

Learn more about the ZGIE du Nord, its strategic planning, and the actions planned to ensure sustainable water management.

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An innovative solution

To meet the needs of water stakeholders, the OBV de la rivière du Nord has developed VigieNord, a citizen science platform that makes it easy to report and geolocate water-related issues. The tool makes a tangible contribution to:

Promote better sharing of field observations among water stakeholders

Identify opportunities for action in the region