Yet the same survey shows a disconnect: more than 80 per cent feel there is no need for major and immediate investment in their community's drinking water/wastewater facilities. The level of confidence in the safety and quality of drinking water has increased, and more than a third of Canadians (37 per cent) who use municipal water are not very aware of the condition of the water and sewage infrastructure serving their own home.

"We have been polling on water issues for 25 years. This survey is a tale of romance between Canadians and their treasured water. But there's a significant gap between romance and reality. We found a troubling lack of awareness not only about water conservation but also the very pressing need for investment in infrastructure." stated GlobeScan President Chris Coulter.