2023 - 08 - 11 - Water Safety Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 11, 2023

QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A WATER SAFETY STATEMENT FOR THE CLARE RIVER WATERSHED DUE TO HIGHER WATER LEVELS FROM SUSPECTED BREACHED BEAVER DAM UPSTREAM OF MELLON LAKE

Quinte Conservation suspects that a beaver dam breached upstream of Mellon Lake, following a 25mm rainfall event on Thursday, August 10.

The event has caused rising water levels on Mellon Lake and has exceeded typical spring conditions. Quinte Conservation does not expect flooding on Stocco Lake or the Moira River.

Members of the public have reported significant debris on Mellon Lake and water levels have purportedly overtopped the banks of the Clare River. Quinte Conservation recommends removing or securing loose items, docks, and boats or securing to the shoreline. 

There is significant beaver activity in the Clare watershed. Beaver dam breaches are difficult to predict and can cause rapid changes in water levels and road washouts. The Clare River Watershed is a natural system and there are no actions that Quinte Conservation can take to alleviate high water levels. Water levels will naturally subside in the coming days.

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.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) August 18, 2023.

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. 

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