Brian Tennant didn't plan to start a water treatment company. A trained plumber and second-year refrigeration mechanic, Tennant transitioned into farming at 25 and spent two decades on the land before selling his farm. When he purchased a new property near a golf course, he was confronted with a water problem that would spark a years-long journey of innovation. "My wife didn't want to move there because the water came from a dugout used by cows and ducks," Tennant recalls. "I told her, 'I'll fix it.'"
That promise set the foundation for Farm Freshwater, a company now known for its low-maintenance, chemical-free water systems designed specifically for rural life.
Five goals, one mission
From the outset, Tennant laid out five clear goals: no water hauling, no chemical use, complete purification of surface water, minimal maintenance, and drinkable water from even the worst dugouts. "I lived in the lab," he says. "When I got it wrong, my wife let me know right away."
His home became the testing ground for what would become a reliable and revolutionary system. The breakthrough came in the mid-2000s, and within a few years, Farm Freshwater was born. "We’ve never had anyone want to return one of our systems," Tennant says proudly. "They produce spot-free, bottled-water-quality throughout the whole house."
Rural roots, real solutions
What sets Farm Freshwater apart is its deep connection to rural living. "We're not city people trying to solve a rural problem," Tennant explains. "We live it. Everyone who works for me has a dugout and started out as a customer."
The company's specialty lies in treating both dugout and well water. While 80 percent of their business is well-related, Farm Freshwater is best known for tackling the unique challenges of dugout water – addressing everything from particulates to odour and colour. Tennant emphasizes the importance of pre-treatment to protect the reverse osmosis systems, making them cost-effective and low-maintenance over time.
Data-driven and customer-focused
Farm Freshwater offers free water testing to assess each client’s needs. "We make decisions based on facts," says Tennant. "Sometimes people don’t need an expensive system, and we’re honest about that. We tell them what we would do if we lived on that farm."
Their approach prioritizes long-term value over quick sales. "I've refused to sell systems that I don’t believe will work," he adds. "I don’t want them to call saying it didn’t."
Beyond the home: agriculture applications
In addition to residential use, the company is expanding into agricultural applications, particularly in improving spray water for crops. Tennant shares the story of a client near Swift Current who struggled with weed control despite mirroring his neighbours’ farming practices. "His well water was the issue – it was interfering with chemical effectiveness. Once we treated it, his yields improved dramatically."
Built for the long haul
Farm Freshwater isn't just about clean water – it's about rural resilience. "City water is easy. It’s not a challenge," says Tennant. "We’re here for farms, ranches, and anyone who relies on surface or well water."
With a team that lives the same rural realities as their clients and a mission rooted in practical innovation, Farm Freshwater continues to lead the way in making clean, affordable water a reality for rural communities. To learn more, call (306) 736-9669, email briantennant@sasktel.net, or visit the Farm Freshwater website.