Watersheds remain at low water levels

Although the Quinte region experienced significant rainfall over the past few days, Quinte Conservation is reminding residents water supplies may still be low.

Dave Eastcott, Water Resources Technician, says below normal precipitation levels persisted for most of October and November.

“Stream and river flows have recovered quickly with the recent rain events; however, groundwater conditions remain low for this time of year, but are continuing to improve. Some isolated well issues are still being reported throughout the watersheds.”

He notes those who draw from these supplies may continue to experience issues with water availability and should take extra precaution with non-essential use until groundwater levels have recharged.

Municipalities that source water from Lake Ontario or the Bay of Quinte have access to a more sustainable water supply, he said. “The delivery of water to residents on these systems is not impacted by current conditions and the conditions statement is not directed to residents accessing these municipal water supplies.”

“Those with vulnerable water supplies and those that take bulk water from these areas are asked to voluntarily reduce non-essential water use by 10 per cent.”

A Level 1 Low Water Condition means the potential for water supply problems has been identified. A Level 1 condition is managed through existing programs of the 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 is a community-based environmental protection agency serving 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers and Prince Edward County.