Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The Ville de Montréal provides drinking water to Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, a neighborhood within the Montreal borough of Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. The sole source is the St. Lawrence River, with water processed at major treatment facilities including the Atwater and Charles-J.-Des Baillets plants. These operations serve the island of Montreal's 1.8 million residents, distributing the treated surface water through an extensive network of underground pipes. No local groundwater is utilized in this supply.

The St. Lawrence River watershed upstream of Montreal is characterized by Paleozoic carbonate rock formations, specifically Ordovician limestones and dolomites found in the St. Lawrence Platform. These geology types readily dissolve, releasing significant amounts of calcium and magnesium ions into the water, resulting in a moderately mineralized supply. While glacial till from the Pleistocene era also influences the water, the primary driver of its hardness comes from these sedimentary rocks.

Homeowners in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce may notice limescale buildup on faucets, showerheads, and inside appliances like kettles and coffee makers. The efficiency and lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines can be reduced by mineral deposits, often necessitating more frequent descaling. A water softener is an optional but recommended addition for households experiencing these issues; regular salt additions are required for maintenance. Montreal's annual reports consistently confirm compliance with Health Canada guidelines, with measures in place to manage factors like pH and lead levels.