This paper explores the pathways of water contamination in rural Haiti. It examines the interactions between cultural perceptions regarding water and sanitation practice, water quality, and water consumption. Over 100 water samples, 60 interviews, and 6 focus groups were conducted in 9 rural Haitian communities around the Artibonite River valley, the location of the initial Cholera outbreak in 2010. Only 10% of rural Haitians surveyed have access to improved sanitation facilities. Open Defecation was reported by 62% of the households surveyed, especially when people are away from home farming or working. This leads to widespread contamination of shallow aquifers.