As of July 11, 2018, South Nation Conservation has issued a precipitation triggered level I low water condition encompassing SNC’s entire jurisdiction.
Low water conditions are calculated based on precipitation and stream flow indicators.
Stream gauges within SNC’s jurisdiction are still indicating an above level I condition. However, the lack of adequate precipitation in the last few months is the leading factor in the current drought status.
According to Environment Canada, precipitation over the past three months was 60-76% below normal. The lack of rainfall has left the cumulative precipitation between 20-40% of the historical values for the month of June analyzed from Environment Canada climate stations in Ottawa, and Brockville.
Under the Ontario Low Water Response Program, SNC has formed a Water Response Team (WRT) in conjunction with members of municipal and provincial governments, along with agricultural and special interest groups. The WRT will meet to discuss the severity of the situation and to ensure residents are informed of decisions that are made regarding conservation and restrictions efforts.
While in level I status, SNC asks residents, businesses and other industries throughout the watershed to reduce their water consumption by 10% in order to help mitigate the impacts of low water conditions. Water consumption can be reduced by limiting non-essential uses (e.g. lawn watering, car washing, etc.).
Of the three levels of low water conditions, a level I indicates that there is the potential of a water supply problem should current precipitation and stream flow trends persist. A level II condition indicates minor supply issues may be apparent and conservation and non-essential restriction is adopted, and a level III condition indicates the failure of the water supply to meet demand.
SNC will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide updates as required.
To better understand local conditions; landowners, businesses, and industries are encouraged to contact SNC if they are experiencing any unusual water-related problems.