With rainfall still in short supply throughout the Lower Trent Conservation watershed region, the conservation has declared a Level II Low Water Condition.
This replaces the previous declaration of a Level 1 Low Water Condition made on August 8.
Officials say moderate drought conditions are now being experienced throughout the watershed region.
The June to August three-month rainfall total recorded by Environment Canada at Trenton was 106.5 millimetres, which is 49 per cent of normal precipitation for this time of year (220 mm). A one-month or three-month precipitation below 60 per cent is the trigger for Level II Low Water. Monthly streamflows in some of our local creeks have dropped below the 50% threshold of the Lowest Average Summer Month flows, which is a trigger for Level II Low Water. Specifically, Rawdon Creek, Trout Creek and Hoards (Squires) Creek are currently the most impacted with reduced water levels and streamflows. As a result, drought conditions may continue in the coming weeks. During this time, Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions to determine if additional actions should be taken.
Under a Level II Low Water Condition, residents, businesses, industries, and municipalities are asked to voluntarily reduce their water use by 20%. Lower Trent Conservation encourages everyone to use water wisely and apply water conservation measures. Non-essential water uses should be suspended until natural water supplies recover. Those who hold a Permit to Take Water from the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks are asked to reduce their water taking by 20% as well.
Residents can help conserve water by using rain barrels to capture rain for watering lawns and gardens, limiting vehicle washing and other reduction activities. Lower Trent Conservation staff urge rural residents to be wary of their water use. Water is a precious resource – continued wise use of water is encouraged now and always. Municipalities that source water from Lake Ontario or the Bay of Quinte have access to a more sustainable water supply. The delivery of water to residents on these systems is not impacted by current conditions.
If water supply on private systems becomes low or dry, well owners are encouraged to review the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks information for managing wells (https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage#section-2). Those in need of bulk potable water supply should check with their local municipality for availability and information on private water haulers.
Droughts can cause many severe impacts on the environment and communities including:
- Water shortages for human consumption, industrial, business and agriculture use
- Decline of water quality
- Increase in wildfires
- Increases in insect infestations and plant disease
Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and report new information as it becomes available.
