Rothesay’s water utility must update its sampling plans and treatment processes to meet new provincial rules taking effect in January 2026. The town will need to screen the Carpenter’s Pond wellfield under the GUDI Protocol, adopt higher log-reduction targets for viruses and protozoa, and follow updated Drinking Water Quality Guidelines from the New Brunswick Department of Environment and Local Government (DELG).
The changes include mandated 4-log virus and 3-log protozoa removal or inactivation as set out in the provincial Treatment and Disinfection Policy. Rothesay operates a GE Water ZeeWeed microfiltration plant at McGuire Road; the town must confirm whether that system already qualifies for the new treatment credits or whether additional filtration or advanced disinfection (for example, ultraviolet reactors) will be required. If Carpenter’s Pond is classified as GUDI-affected, surface-water standards will apply and further upgrades could be necessary.
Brett McLean is the incoming CAO for Rothesay, effective Jan. 6, 2025. The town has said it will address GUDI screening and any required revisions to its municipal sampling plan as part of the transition to the new provincial regime, but no firm public timeline for provincial submission of a revised sampling plan has been provided.
The town’s operations overview describes its utility staff and systems and notes that roughly 30% of residents are served by the municipal water system. Mayor Nancy Grant has previously emphasized that the town’s water utility operates under provincial oversight: ‘The town does operate a water utility under strict control of the province with 24-7 treatment and control.’
Rothesay approved its 2025 utilities budget in November 2024. Whether significant additional contingency funding or rate changes will be required to meet the January 2026 requirements will depend on the results of GUDI screening, provincially approved sampling frequencies, and technical assessments of existing treatment credits; the town says it will determine final equipment and staffing needs once provincial approvals are complete.
