News & Notices
Quinte Conservation and this region’s Low Water Response Team (LWRT) have declared a Level 2 Low Water Condition for the Quinte Watershed.
There has been a significant shift in precipitation patterns over the last three months. Since early May, below normal precipitation has persisted which has resulted in dry conditions with a noticeable decline in stream flows.
Water supplies drawn from groundwater systems, and inland lakes and streams should be considered sensitive and vulnerable. Residents who draw from these supplies may experience current and future issues with water availability and should take extra precaution with their non-essential use. Residents with vulnerable water supplies and those that take bulk water from these areas are asked to voluntarily reduce non-essential water use by 20%. If water supply on private systems becomes low or dry, well owners are encouraged to review the Ontario Government’s drought publication for managing wells (https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage). Those in need of bulk potable water supply should check with their local municipality for availability and information on private water haulers.
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. During times of drought, municipalities may invoke water use bylaws. Residents are advised to check with their municipalities to find out if there are any water use bylaws in effect.
Quinte Conservation encourages residents experiencing low water to report their conditions using an online form. The form can be found at: https://arcg.is/1zX8b5 or on the main page of the Quinte Conservation website, along with tips for water conservation, at www.QuinteConservation.ca.
A Level 2 Low Water Condition indicates a potentially serious water supply problem. This level often means minor water supply issues are encountered and there is the potential for major supply problems. A Level 2 condition is managed through Conservation Authorities, municipalities and other key provincial agencies. This level indicates a potentially serious problem and conservation of water is extended to restrictions on non-essential uses and a 20% reduction in water consumption is requested. Low water conditions are ranked as Level 1, 2 or 3 based on a prolonged period of low flows or precipitation. A Level 1 is the least severe and Level 3 is the most severe.
This message will be in effect until (or updated before) August 31, 2020.
Quinte Conservation is a community-based environmental protection agency. It serves 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers and Prince Edward County. It provides cost-effective environmental expertise and leadership. Quinte Conservation’s main goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where people and nature live in harmony. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.
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For more information contact:
Christine McClure, Water Resources Manager
(613) 968-3434 ext. 130 OR (613) 354-3312 ext. 130
