Understanding Water Quality Interactions Within a Decentralized Drinking Water System in a Community in Nunavik, Canada

Abstract

This study examined microbial water quality in a subarctic Canadian community reliant on a decentralized truck-to-cistern system. Samples were collected from 40 residential cisterns and various stages of the local water treatment plant (WTP) to measure adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an indicator of microbial activity. Non-parametric statistical tests addressed five research questions related to spatial variation, building age, WTP effectiveness, correlations with water quality parameters, and cistern configuration. No significant differences were found between cisterns across different zones or construction periods. However, ATP levels varied significantly across WTP stages, and cleaning had a measurable impact on microbial activity. Moderate correlations between ATP and turbidity were also identified. While results support improved monitoring practices, the study’s limited sampling and single-community focus restrict broader generalization. Future work should expand sampling duration, include biofilm analysis, and utilize pilot cisterns and digital twins to better understand and manage microbial risks in truck-to-cistern systems.