Moira River upstream of the McLeod Dam in July 2016. (Photo by: Quinte Conservation)
The Quinte area got a good soaking over the past five days however it wasn’t enough to bring Quinte Conservation watersheds out of a Level 3 Low Water Condition.
A Level 3 Low Water Condition was declared by Quinte Conservation and the Low Water Response Team due to lack of rainfall and low flows in local rivers and streams on August 4. As a result residents were advised to conserve water by 50 percent. The Quinte Conservation watersheds have been experiencing low water conditions since the beginning of June.
According to measurements taken at CFB Trenton, the Quinte area received 46.2 mm of rain Tuesday, or 1.8 inches of rain.
Wednesday, Quinte Conservation spokeswoman Jennifer May Anderson said they measured the rainfall and Belleville received the most with 70 mm of rain since Saturday but it’s still not enough.
Anderson said they are continuing to advise residents on well water to conserve water as much as possible. Well owners should take steps to protect their well pump. A licensed contractor can be hired to check water levels, make sure the pump is working and ensure the pump is protected in case the well should run dry.
Communities along the Lower Trent watershed remain under a level 2 water condition. Staff are measuring rainfall amounts and numbers are expected Wednesday afternoon.
For a list of water conservation tips log on to Green Quinte.
The environmental organization is encouraging any individuals or businesses in the Quinte watersheds who experience problems or hardships, such as wells going dry, to contact Quinte Conservation by calling 613-968-3434 or 613-354-3312 and dialing extension 129. Reports can also be emailed to info@quinteconservation.ca.
