FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 21, 2019
QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A LEVEL 1 LOW WATER CONDITIONS STATEMENT
A Level 1 Low Water Condition has been issued for the Quinte Conservation Watershed including the regions of the Moira, Napanee, and Salmon Rivers as well as all of Prince Edward County.
Despite high water levels on the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario, minimal precipitation throughout the last few months has contributed to lower than average groundwater and surface water conditions throughout the watershed. Quinte Conservation Watershed Monitoring Coordinator Lynette Lambert says, “Groundwater and surface water conditions are lower than average for this time of year. If limited rain is received or if dry conditions persist, we will see water levels in streams, rivers, and in groundwater continue to decline.”
In some areas, groundwater levels are higher than those seen in 2018 and in other areas throughout the watershed, conditions are similar to 2018.
Lambert adds, “We are asking residents and businesses of the region to voluntarily reduce water usage by 10 per cent for non-essential uses until the supply is replenished. This includes taking shorter showers, turning the tap off to wash dishes and brush teeth, and watering plants at night and when possible, using rain barrel water to do so.”
Quinte Conservation encourages residents experiencing low water to report their conditions using an online form. The form can be found at: https://arcg.is/1zX8b5 or on the main page of the Quinte Conservation website, along with tips for water conservation, at www.QuinteConservation.ca.
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.
This message will be in effect until (or updated before) Thursday, September 5, 2019.