Quinte Conservation warns of rising water and local ice conditions

Recent rainfall has caused water levels to rise and increased flows in local rivers and streams in the Quinte Conservation watershed.

“There may be some nuisance flooding of low-lying areas, but no serious flooding is expected,” said Christine McClure, Water Resources Manger. “Residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good condition during this type of weather because of local ponding water.”

She recommends homeowners clear snow, ice and debris from storm drains, ditch inlets, eaves troughs and sump pump lines to minimize the pooling of water in low-lying areas.

Picton residents in the area of Low and John Streets reported “a river running down the road and blocked culverts”. With water backing up, they were hoping sump pumps would hold out. County workers told one resident he received three pages of calls in a half hour and they have four trucks out trying to control the flow.

Quinte Conservation reminds residents to be cautious about changing ice conditions.
McClure warns changing flows can create unsafe ice conditions and she urges adults to keep children off the ice as it will likely become unstable.

“Stream banks will be slippery and treacherous. Dams and other water control structures should be avoided at all times due to strong currents. Hypothermia is real concern for anyone who falls into the water, even in a ditch or small creek,” she said.

Quinte Conservation issued a Water Safety Statement regarding the changing conditions in the watershed. A Water Safety Statement indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children or pets. Flooding is not expected.

The message is valid until March 2, 2016.

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. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.