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Water Corporation's ability to monitor water quality in Perth's drinking water catchment has been compromised due to Alcoa's fencing around its bauxite mine sites, as revealed in documents obtained by the WA Forest Alliance. The utility reported that it was frustrated by limited access to Alcoa's mining plans, which hampered risk management efforts.

Alcoa's operations affect 12 public drinking water catchments, and a study indicated high risks to water supply for Perth's 2.3 million residents. While Alcoa maintains its operations have not negatively impacted drinking water, concerns persist regarding potential contamination and the adequacy of a $100 million financial guarantee for remediation.