Domestic water use in Samson Cree Nation

Abstract

Samson Cree Nation partnered with researchers at the University of Alberta to conduct a water resources analysis of their water systems. This thesis describes a community-based research approach used to explore domestic water use in Samson Cree Nation, the variables that effect domestic water use in Samson Cree Nation, and the design of system dynamics models of Samson Cree Nation’s water systems. Domestic water use in Samson Cree Nation averages 221 litres per capita per day although rural residents use 31 percent less water (195 litres per capita per day) than municipal residents (283 litres per capita per day). Outdoor water use is very low in Samson Cree Nation and no seasonal or climatic patterns were found. Average water use in Samson Cree Nation depends on water system type, drinking water source, household size, household occupancy during the day, leakage, and clothes washer use frequency. The system dynamics models highlight the importance of community-based work and community-lead initiatives to managing water resources.