Water Quality in the Canton of Bern – Drinking Water Sources and Analysis

The drinking water in the Canton of Bern is regularly tested and generally meets high quality standards. However, in the past there have been reports about concerns regarding water quality in Bern, which attracted public attention.

✪ In theory, the water quality in the Canton of Bern should be excellent. A large portion of the drinking water comes from the Aare and Emmental regions, where it is collected and distributed to towns and municipalities. In the city of Bern, the water is monitored regularly. Nevertheless, there have been occasional cases in recent years where limit values for pesticides in drinking water were exceeded.

According to reports, more than 50 municipalities were temporarily affected. The official water analyses published by the authorities show that the situation is continuously monitored and evaluated.

What Is the Water Quality Like in the Canton of Bern?

Water is one of the most important natural resources we rely on every day. It is used not only for washing, showering and brushing teeth, but also for cooking and drinking. Therefore, many residents wonder about the actual quality of tap water in the Canton of Bern.

A few years ago, water quality became a topic of discussion when the pesticide chlorothalonil was detected above recommended limits in several Bernese municipalities. This substance was previously used in agriculture and residues were able to enter groundwater sources.

✪ According to statements from the canton, the population does not need to worry about immediate health risks. Nevertheless, the findings have understandably led to increased public awareness regarding drinking water quality in Bern.

Where Does the Drinking Water in the Canton of Bern Come From?

The drinking water supply in the Canton of Bern is sourced from several natural resources:

• 40 % natural spring water
• 40 % groundwater
• 20 % surface water

The main catchment areas supplying the region include:

• Aeschau (Emmental)
• Kiesen (Aare Valley)
• Belpau (Aare Valley)

The water hardness in Bern may vary depending on

• seasonal conditions
• soil composition
• water volume

On average, the hardness ranges between 20 and 30 °fH or about 11–17 °dH. This classifies the water as moderately to fairly hard.

Why Can a Water Analysis Be Useful?

Many people today are unsure whether their tap water can still be safely used for drinking or brushing teeth. Even though public water supplies are carefully monitored, changes in water quality can occur within building plumbing systems.

Old pipes, fixtures or stagnant water may release substances into the drinking water. An independent laboratory water analysis can therefore provide additional certainty about the actual water quality in your home.

Especially households with babies, children or elderly people increasingly rely on professional drinking water testing. The results are typically presented in a clear and understandable way so that residents can easily interpret them.

A water analysis can provide information about the presence of substances such as:

• heavy metals
• bacteria
• pesticides and other pollutants

Conclusion: Water Analyses Can Provide Additional Security

Although the drinking water in the Canton of Bern is generally considered safe and of good quality, past findings have raised questions among residents. Conducting an independent analysis of tap water can therefore help clarify the actual water quality within individual households.