Level 2 low water condition continues for all of Quinte region

Lack of rainfall, low humidity and high temperatures mean low water conditions across Quinte area watersheds have worsened over the last few weeks.
“The Moira River’s normal flow rate for this time of year is over 4 cubic meters per second and right now it’s running at 0.56 cubic meters per second,” said Bryon Keene, Quinte Conservation Water Resources Engineer. “Flows in the Salmon River and across Prince Edward County are also much lower than normal.  We are also losing water in our lake systems due to evaporation.”

Keene said low water conditions have also affected water quality in the Bay of Quinte.
“Blue-green algae thrives in these circumstances and has been detected in Belleville, Deseronto and Picton Bay.”

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 130.  Reports can also be emailed to quinteca@quinteconservation.ca.  These reports will help the organization track the impacts of the Low Water Condition.

“Residents are reminded that the groundwater table is also affected by the lack of rain,” said Keene. “We are asking all Quinte residents and business to reduce water usage by 20 per cent until the water supply is replenished.  This means all non-essential water uses should be suspended until further notice for those on both private wells and municipal water systems.  Those who rely on wells for their water could see a sharp decline in their water supply.”

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.  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.

Quinte Conservation issued the first low water warning this year in April.  The local environmental agency will continue to monitor precipitation and stream flows and provide updates.