The Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Limited (DOWASCO) is a registered company wholly owned by the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica. DOWASCO was established by an act of Parliament – Water and Sewerage Act #17, in December 1989 and incorporated in the same year.
Prior to incorporation, the Company was known as National Water Services which was also called the Central Water Authority up to 1986.
Water supply development dates back to the mid 1870’s, but the first comprehensive potable water development plan was developed in 1963 by the Government of Dominica. As part of the plan an Act of parliament established the Central Water Authority (CWA) in October 1967. It remained as the CWA until 1986 when the name was changed to National Water Services (NWS). In 1989 the NWS was dissolved and Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Limited (DOWASCO) was created under the Companies Ordinance of the Laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Development of the sewer infrastructure started around the 1920”s. In 1993 the Roseau Water and Sanitation project commenced. This included the study, design and construction of sanitation systems so as to improve the sewerage collection and disposal systems in Roseau.
DOWASCO has the mandate to provide potable water and sewerage services to communities throughout Dominica.
Water Systems
DOWASCO has over 40 water systems located throughout Dominica. For purpose of Water Treatment Services, the island is divided into zones – North, South, East, and West, each with a number of Treatment plants. Water is treated primarily to deal with bacteria using one of three types of chlorination methods. DOWASCO’s water quality standards are well within the international standards as set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Sewerage Systems
Sewerage service is available in Roseau, Goodwill, Stockfarm, Bath Estate, Newtown, Canefield and Jimmit areas. Our sewerage treatment plant is located in Baytown. This facility treats raw sewerage before extracting floatables and pumping the treated effluent out into the open sea, away from the coastline.